Another branch of The Property Franchise Groups’s brand Martin & Co has snapped up an independent rival – and it’s the outlet’s fourth acquisition in as many years.

Martin & Co’s Plymouth managing directors Chris and Merolyn Whitaker acquired more than 200 properties from Sams Accommodation, along with three staff.

Chris, who purchased the Plymouth franchise four years ago, said: “This is our fourth acquisition and each one is super exciting and brings with it its own challenges and opportunities.

“The owners of Sams felt we were a good match for them and believed we could continue to develop positive relationships with their landlords of the past 35 years. There is an inevitable level of apprehension for any member of staff being integrated into an existing business, so my focus has been to provide reassurance, support and vision.”

The Sams acquisition takes Martin & Co Plymouth’s managed portfolio to almost 1,000 properties, meaning the Whitakers – whose careers started in the armed forces – now hold one of the largest single office portfolios in the Group.

Ian Wilson, chief executive of The Property Franchise Group, adds: “We particularly welcome franchisees with a military background as experience has taught us that they are very disciplined, follow the rulebook, overcome obstacles in their way, and aim high. 

“This couple have taken the Plymouth lettings market by storm since they cold started their agency. In a classic twin-pronged attack, they have grown organically and made a series of tactically adept acquisitions.”