Benchmark Adds £200m in Client Assets with Robertson Baxter Acquisition
- Chapters Capital
- Feb 14
- 2 min read
14th February 2025
Benchmark Capital has acquired Robertson Baxter, a financial advisory firm based in Huddersfield. This acquisition adds £200m in client assets and four advisers to Benchmark's network. It represents another important step in Benchmark's ongoing expansion strategy as part of the Schroders Group, further enhancing its presence in the UK financial planning sector.
Over the next two years, Robertson Baxter will fully integrate into Benchmark and transition under its regulatory authorisation. Unlike some other consolidators that keep acquired firms as separate brands, Benchmark is committed to a fully unified service model.
Ed Dymott, CEO of Benchmark, mentioned that the firm continues to see "very strong interest" from directly authorised firms looking to join a larger network. He described this acquisition as part of Benchmark’s broader strategy to support firms at various stages of their development—whether they are starting up, seeking efficiencies, planning for growth, or navigating succession.
This acquisition follows a long-standing partnership between Benchmark and Robertson Baxter, with the latter previously utilising Benchmark’s platform and investment solutions. CEO Greg Robertson emphasised that the support of technology and practice management were crucial factors in their decision to join Benchmark's network, noting that it would enable them to "serve more clients more efficiently than ever before."
With the rise in mergers and acquisitions within the financial planning sector, this deal highlights the increasing preference among independent firms for structured acquisition models backed by institutional support. In contrast to private equity-backed consolidators that focus on rapid growth, Schroders’ ownership allows Benchmark to offer a long-term investment perspective, ensuring stability and operational synergies for the firms it acquires.
As the UK advisory sector evolves towards larger, integrated networks, firms must consider the advantages of joining an established group versus maintaining autonomy.
At Chapters Capital, we specialise in financial planning and wealth management M&A and understand the importance of strategic acquisitions for growth. Whether you are considering a sale, merger, or expansion, contact one of our professional associates today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.