Winkworth has paid tribute to Lawrence Alkin, an independent non-executive director, who passed away last week.

Alkin, an instrumental in creating the framework for Winkworth Franchising Ltd in 1981, died on 5 February.

He contributed significantly to the company during his tenure, including chairing the remuneration committee. His legal expertise and business acumen were crucial in developing Winkworth’s unique franchise concept.

His passing has been described as a significant loss to the company, impacting its operations as his legacy continues to influence the management team, led by CEO Dominic Agace.

Simon Agace, non-executive chairman of Winkworth, expressed his sincere gratitude for Lawrence’s long-term association with him, which lasted for 50 years, both as a business partner and a close friend. He commented:

“Originally as a property investor, Lawrence was a major client of mine. His legal mind, as a founder of Colombotti Alkin & Partners in the 1970s, proved invaluable in assisting me to create our unique franchise concept for Winkworth. He and I spent time travelling in the USA, in Phoenix Arizona and on the West Coast, where we both gained considerable knowledge of American business methods, which proved very useful when I was developing our UK franchise system.

“Lawrence had a huge impact on Winkworth and he has passed this legacy on to the Company’s current CEO, Dominic Agace, and the management team, who have greatly benefitted from his professionalism and extensive knowledge. We will all miss his wise counsel and considerable experience.”