Petty buys part of struggling Wright Marshall

Lancashire's Petty Estate Agent has acquired the real estate division of Wright Marshall.

The Cheshire-based Wright Marshall Group has been in business for 180 years but entered into administration on June 24. The company also includes a rural auction mart and a fine art auctioneer, which were not included in the sale.

The division bought by Petty includes end-to-end commercial and residential lettings and sales service across seven sites in Cheshire, Derbyshire and Shropshire. This includes planning and development, valuation, sales and lettings.

Petty says the deal will be used to invest in the latest technology, and create a network of tech-enabled estate agencies across the North of England.

Peter Barnes has been appointed to Wright Marshall as managing director in Cheshire and Derbyshire. He has previously held positions in the property, sales and automotive sectors, and will be tasked with implementing the development in technology and improving operational efficiencies within the business.

Peter said:  “I am hugely excited at the prospect of getting involved in revolutionising a Cheshire institution. Wright Marshall has an established and trustworthy brand, with a great team delivering a fantastic service. My priority for the coming months is to embrace the technological developments that Petty have planned, but without losing the personal touch that Wright Marshall has become synonymous with.”

Charlotte Hagan, chair at Petty Estate Agents, added: “Our acquisition sees the merger of two strong heritage businesses, each with outstanding management teams and local and technical knowledge. The expansion into the Cheshire, Derbyshire and Shropshire areas is hugely significant and provides us with an excellent platform."