Dacre, Son & Hartley has unveiled ambitious plans to grow its franchise network across Yorkshire and beyond.

The Yorkshire-based company has partnered with franchising specialist, Accentia Franchise Consultants.

Dacres currently employs 125 property professionals across its residential, commercial and agricultural divisions, and operates a network of 20 branches across West and North Yorkshire, including two franchised businesses in Morley and Elland.

The firm now plans to grow its franchise network further across the north of England with Ilkley headquartered Accentia Franchise Consultants being appointed to guide the estate agent through the expansion, as well as identifying potential franchisees.

Patrick McCutcheon, head of residential at Dacre, Son & Hartley, commented: “We already have two franchisees in south west Leeds and Halifax and they have quickly become flourishing and well-respected estate agents in their local areas. Target sites include York, Richmond, Clitheroe, Kendal and Wakefield.

“We’ve worked closely with our existing franchisees to provide ongoing support and integrate them into our office network. They also benefit from our incredibly active web presence, our dedicated IT and marketing functions, ongoing training, our 200 years of heritage in Yorkshire’s property market and our highly regarded brand.

“It’s been very successful and we’re now looking forward to expanding our franchise network through this tried and tested model. It’s a great opportunity for entrepreneurial people, as well as those with a knowledge of property and existing estate agents who aspire to own their own business.”

Paul Mitchel, from Accentia Franchise Consultants, said: “Dacre, Son & Hartley is a leading name in Yorkshire’s property market and there’s no doubt this is an exciting opportunity for aspiring estate agents who want to be part of a business that has stood the test of time over the last 200 years.”

Gavin Townsend, who is the owner of Dacre, Son & Hartley’s Morley franchise, is encouraging agents thinking of setting up their own business to consider teaming up with Dacres.

He said: “The guidance, advice and support that Dacre, Son & Hartley provided as I’ve established and operated my business has been fabulous and we’re now one of Morley’s top performing estate agents.

“I truly believe I could not have found a better estate agent to take a franchise with. The company is very forward thinking and invest heavily in all the latest technology, so you always feel one step ahead of the competition.’’

Correction: When first published, this story said that Linley & Simpson had acquired Dacre, Son & Hartley. In fact Dacre, Son & Hartley are independently owned and only sold their lettings division to Linley & Simpson. We apologise for the error.