Property chain Martin & Co is reportedly considering a float on the stock market.
The firm was started in 1986 and today has some 200 offices, almost all of which are operated as franchises.
Founder Richard Martin and his wife Kathryn own 95% of the firm, with 5% owned by managing director Ian Wilson.
Martin & Co always specialised wholly in lettings, but last year launched into sales.
The firm has hired Panmure Gordon to advise on either a sale or a stock market listing.
So far this year, both Countrywide and Foxtons have launched on the London stock exchange, while Zoopla is also considering a flotation.
Martin & Co’s competitor, lettings franchise chain Belvoir, listed on AIM last year. Winkworth is also listed on AIM.
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Comments
They also said they would never enter the sales market as they were letting agents..............
Anything for a headline
I suppose it was just a matter of time before Martin and Co did something. Interesting to release a press release though stating they they are 'mulling' something over. Why do that?
However, the really interesting thing is in this sentence ... "The firm has hired Panmure Gordon to advise on either a sale or a stock market listing."
All of the other firms mentioned in the article have listed on the stock market. but notice the phrase 'sale' or 'stock market listing' ..... SALE ... who would buy it?
Anyway - good luck what ever happens