Franchise brand opens new office and eyes further expansion

Winkworth is expanding in the south west with a new office opening in the Bishopston area of Bristol, tapping into a substantial local  lettings market. 

Winkworth Bishopston, located just north of the city centre, is the second office for joint franchisees Matthew Leonard and Lucy McIlroy, who run the agency’s office in Bath. 

The area has a large student population and also attracts many young professionals and families relocating to Bristol. 

Leonard says: “We have acquired a large rental portfolio and will be looking to grow this side of the business, with many landlords looking to buy in the area to extend their HMO portfolios. For investors, the rental yield is really good while properties also grow in capital appreciation. 

“The city has a good balance for all ages and cultures, with lots of green spaces and is similar to London in many ways - but more relaxed and accessible. There is a significant level of development in and around the city which also offers opportunities for us.” 

Winkworth chief executive Dominic Agace says: “Bristol is a leading relocation destination from London and other cities, with exceptional employment opportunities, high graduate retention, outstanding schools and an excellent lifestyle in a beautiful setting. 

“We are delighted to be supporting Matthew and Lucy, already successful franchisees with Winkworth, in their expansion with an office in a flourishing part of Bristol, where they will be able to offer their customers the benefits of links with our nationwide network of offices, including our substantial presence in London. It’s part of our policy to invest in successful franchisees  and help them grow further and we look forward to doing more in the future.  

“We are looking to expand elsewhere in the south west region and would like to hear from property professionals who want to own their own business, with the support of the Winkworth brand, our excellent head office team and our nationwide network.”