Franchisee snaps up rival independent after 14 years

A Hunters franchisee has made his first acquisition - after 14 years.

Lester Hurst, who has owned the Otley and Ilkley branches of Hunters since 2010, has acquired the portfolio of Easy Location Ltd in West Yorkshire.

Two of Easy Location’s staff have also transferred to Hunters Otley as part of the acquisition.

Hurst says: “I’ve known the owners of Easy Location, Gill and Chris Hendy, for around 15 years and have worked with them extensively during that time.

“When they decided to take early retirement, our long-standing relationship meant we were the only agent they wanted to look after their long-standing clients.

“The transition for Easy Location’s landlords will be a completely seamless one, with their properties continuing to be managed in Otley by a dedicated and experienced team.

“It’s a hugely exciting time for us to grow as a business and I’d like to thank everyone involved in the process.”

As part of the acquisition process, Hunters’ Ilkley office will merge with a newly expanded Otley branch – bringing Lester’s entire team under one roof while they continue to manage sales and lettings across both Otley and Ilkley.

Hunters Managing Director Rob Smith comments: “Lester’s experience with Hunters is second to none and I’m delighted that he’s been able to grow his business with this first acquisition.

“The team’s experience and reputation, and their dedication to great customer service in Otley and Ilkley, is outstanding and their new landlord clients will quickly reap the benefits of those traits.”