The firm says it plans to create a regional network of small financial advisory businesses “focusing on great customer service and providing value for money to clients”.
The addition of Shrewsbury-based Plan For Life Wealth Management is the first step in Clifton’s ‘blueprint for the future’, which aims to build a new regional advisor footprint in key target areas around the country.
The new model aims to disrupt the established advisory firm acquisition model by creating targeted, geographic “Centres of Excellence”.
The first to join, Plan For Life was described as “the ideal advisory business” Clifton is looking to attract to its regional network.
Clifton Asset Management group Financial Planning director, Anthony Carty, said: “Plan For Life is a great business which has been running since 2011 in a region not known as a ‘hub’ for financial services.
“We aim to build on the excellent work that Plan For Life has delivered thus far, with a package of services to enhance the customer journey still further.
“These services include our own low-cost investment platform, in house DFM model portfolios and highly-interactive client portal.
“We have spent years developing our capability, both with resources and technically.
“We believe we have a model which will appeal to advisers who simply want to concentrate on providing the best outcomes for their clients.
“This is the first in a series of targeted acquisitions”
Russell Beesley, founder of Plan For Life Wealth Management, said: “Clifton’s focus on the client journey and use of technology where appropriate, means my clients can look forward to developing their financial plans with a safe pair of hands.
“Plan For Life will continue to trade under its own brand and retain ownership of their clients with Clifton providing additional systems, technical support and expertise to future-proof the business.”