Expanding Financial Planner and wealth manager Independent Wealth Planners (IWP) has acquired Scottish Financial Planning firm Gilmour Hamilton Wealth Management in a move to extend its presence north of the border.

Gilmour Hamilton Wealth Management is based in Kilmarnock and has been in business for over 30 years.

The company will join IWP’s regional hub in the area, AGL Wealth Management.

John Roberts, partner at GHWM, will continue to head the Kilmarnock office and will lead a team of IFAs and support staff, IWP said.

Mr Roberts said: “Our new partners at AGL Wealth Management share the same core values and philosophy, allowing us to continue to develop and expand our proposition with a focus on the delivery of first-class client outcomes. This has and always will be our priority. 

“Joining the wider group of IWP firms is exciting as well, and we look forward to sharing ideas and to our clients benefitting from IWP’s central support services and resources.”

Craig Gibson, chief executive of AGL Wealth Management, said: “I am delighted to announce the merger with Gilmour Hamilton, and welcome John and the team to the wider IWP group. With our combined strength we will continue to provide a first-class client experience which gives us the foundation to grow our business and build IWP’s presence in Scotland. John brings with him a hugely talented and highly experienced team and I look forward to working with them at AGL.”

David Inglesfield, chief executive of IWP, said: “Gilmour Hamilton Wealth Management represents a great boost for our hub in south west and central Scotland. I am thrilled to welcome John and the team to IWP, and I look forward to working with them as we continue to grow in the region.”  

IWP, which has made numerous acquisitions in recent years, says that while it acquires local firms it leaves the day to day management in the hands of local teams, who may also retain some ownership of the business.