Shareholders of Burscough financial advisory firm Acumen Financial sell majority stake in the business to Brighton-based group that also controls Liverpool accountancy practice Mitchell Charlesworth. Tony McDonough reports
Brighton-based venture One Point Advisory Services has acquired a majority stake in West Lancashire independent financial adviser (IFA), Acumen Financial.
This is the latest foray into the local market for One Point which in 2022 also acquired a majority stake in well known Liverpool accountancy firm Mitchell Charlesworth, a £16.8m-turnover business which also has offices in Chester, Widnes and Manchester.
Burscough-based Acumen was founded 20 years ago and this latest deal will see the senior leadership team, led by chief executive Angela Maher, remain in place and continuing to run the business.
Although the value of the deal was not disclosed but according to the most recent Acumen accounts filed on Companies House, the business had net assets of more than £196,000 as of February 28, 2025.
Acumen shareholder Jonathan Landy retains a minority stake in the business via another vehicles called Merewood Holdings. It becomes part of One Point’s UK-wide group which sees acquired firms continue to operate as standalone businesses.
Angela Maher said: “This year is our best yet, in terms of new clients and a record turnover.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with One Point whose guidance and support will mean continued investment in our team and continued delivery of the best outcomes for our clients.
“We have a strong board in place ready to drive the business forward backed by credible investors, making sure we continue to build a successful business fit for the future which can change people’s lives.”
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Ian Symes, chief executive of One Point Advisory Services, added: “As one of the longest standing investors in the accounting and IFA industries our mission is to support local firms who want to stay local and build regional champions.
“With Acumen Financial as partners, we can support the team with a scalable platform for growth, succession planning and partner incentivisation.
“This long-term approach further strengthens the business and provides continuity for clients and teams, with the added benefit of wider group support and capability.”