Corbel Partners, the UK-wide IFA (Independent Financial Adviser) network, has secured over £10m of acquisition funding from Beechbrook Capital.

Headquartered in Warrington, the £24m turnover business employs more than 50 people and comprises a network of over 180 independent financial advisers that manage £2.4bn worth of client assets. The company also offers its own IFA proposition under the Mandarin Wealth brand that works with a range of individuals and business owners across the UK.

Shaw & Co’s Manchester office advised on the deal which will provide funds for a major five-year programme of acquisitions – from both inside and outside Corbel’s network - that will bolster the IFA offering, as well as enabling the company to expand its network to nearly 450 advisors, double the number of employees, and increase business turnover to more than £60m.

Founded in 2004 by Paul Heath and David O’Hara, Corbel provides members of its network with access to an in-house software platform - FinPath -  as well as advice and support on matters relating to compliance, training, regulatory guidance, paraplanning and administration. All advisers within the Corbel network offer a range of independent financial advice including financial planning, savings and investments, retirement planning, financial protection and mortgage advice.

The UK IFA sector forms a key part of the broader financial advice and wealth management industry. It comprises over 5,000 firms, more than 27,000 advisers, and manages £1.39tn - £1.65tn in client assets.

David O’Hara, Director, Corbel Partners (pictured) said “We have enjoyed a significant period of change and growth in the business over the last three years against a backdrop of upheaval in the industry driven by regulation and poorly executed consolidation. We’re delighted with the support that Shaw & Co have provided over the last few months and helping us secure this new partnership with Beechbrook. This partnership will enable Corbel to continue to offer attractive alternative solutions for independent financial advisers and their clients including a very competitive retirement buy-out plan which will mean that our ambitious plans can be achieved.”

Dan Martin, Partner, Shaw & Co said: “Shaw & Co’s Manchester office has put together a large, complex and innovative deal that provides the ideal platform for Corbel’s continued growth. At the moment we’re witnessing an extraordinary wave of M&A activity in this historically fragmented sector which is affording an array of opportunities for those looking to grow or finally exit their business. We are working on a number of mandates to raise funding for businesses in this sector with significant appetite from across the lending market to support high quality, recurring revenue businesses like Corbel.”

Richard Smart, Head of UK Investments, Beechbrook Capital said: “It was a pleasure to work with Shaw & Co on this transaction and we are proud to have provided facilities to support the Corbel management team in their buy and build journey, helping the business to accelerate growth, broaden their offering, and invest in long-term capability.

“At Beechbrook, our approach is built on partnership: backing proven leaders, respecting existing cultures, and supporting disciplined, strategic decisions. The IFA sector continues to demonstrate strong fundamentals and a clear opportunity for thoughtful consolidation. By aligning patient capital with a clear strategy, we believe businesses can create enduring value for clients, advisers, and all stakeholders over the long term."

The following advisors also worked on the deal:

• Addleshaw Goddard: Legal advice (Corbel Partners).

• Hill Dickinson: Legal advice (Corbel Partners).

• Squire Patton Boggs: Legal advice (Beechbrook Capital).

• Cortus Advisory: Financial vendor due diligence (Corbel Partners).

• Confidas: Management due diligence (Corbel Partners).

• Claritas Tax: Tax advice (Corbel Partners).

‍