The franchisees of Martin & Co’s Rochdale branch have completed their first independent acquisition – less than a year after taking on the business.

Peter Mahoney and Craig Wicking became the new owners of the national sales and lettings agency’s Rochdale office in October 2023.

And they have already grown their inherited managed portfolio by 23% after acquiring independent agent Let’s Relocate, based in Chadderton, Oldham

Let’s Relocate was run by Marie Colson, who has decided to take early retirement.

Mahoney and Craig Wicking , meanwhile, purchased the Rochdale office from long-standing franchisee Phil Watson, who had been at the helm since 2006.

Peter said: “It’s been an incredibly busy but very exciting period since we completed the branch purchase and we’re extremely proud to have also completed this acquisition.

“We’re absolutely delighted to bring Marie’s long-standing landlords into Martin & Co and very thankful to Marie for her trust in us.”

Craig added: “We’re really looking forward to integrating the Let’s Relocate landlords into Martin & Co and we’re confident they’ll continue to enjoy the same high levels of service and professionalism they’re used to.

“Acquisitions are a major part of our growth strategy for the business, with The Property Franchise Group’s support, and we’ll certainly be looking for other opportunities moving forwards.”

Martin & Co Managing director Eric Walker said: “Peter and Craig have worked extremely hard since taking on the business last year and to have a first acquisition over the line so quickly is a fantastic achievement.”