IFP sponsor AXA Wealth will now offer financial advice to five million Co-op retail banking customers across its bank branch network.

The partnership was first reported in AXA Wealth’s interim management report back in August.

AXA Wealth already provides financial advice to Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks and Britannia Building Society.

Customers will have access to a specifically tailored range of funds, including ethical funds, designed using the expertise of AXA Architas, AXA Investment Managers and Co-operative Insurance Services Unit Managers. 

The partnership will employ 265 advisers across the branch network, some roles will be transferred from the existing Co-op business and some will be new roles for Co-op staff.

Simon Philp, managing director of AXA Wealth Banking Partnerships, said: “Our new financial advice service has huge benefits for Co-op’s five million customers and is beneficial for both our businesses. Axa Wealth is proud to be partnering with a company with such a strong history and positive reputation.”

Rod Bulmer, managing director of retail for Co-operative Banking Group, said: “This arrangement extends our historical partnership with AXA to the Bank’s 345 strong branch network and ensures our customers will continue to have access to quality financial advice and a broad range of competitive life and savings products.”

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