Westerby Group Surpasses £2bn AUM with Cabot Trustees Acquisition
- Simon Bourke
- Jul 29
- 2 min read
29th July 2025
Westerby Group has acquired Cabot Trustees, a pension specialist based in Bristol, increasing its assets under administration and management to over £2bn. This marks the firm's fourth acquisition in the financial sector since 2022 and continues its expansion across England, with established offices now in Bristol, Manchester, Weymouth, and Leicester.
This acquisition underscores Westerby's strategic focus on enhancing its IFA and specialist pensions capability without relying on external third-party funding. Notably, the firm is pursuing acquisitions under its Employee Ownership Trust structure, which positions its staff as beneficiaries of future profits, an increasingly attractive feature in a consolidating and values-driven market.
Group Managing Director Stephen Harvey highlighted that the acquisition strengthens Westerby’s support for individuals nearing retirement, particularly in pensions and asset-based planning. Nick Perris, founder of Cabot Trustees, emphasised the importance of maintaining continuity and service quality for clients.
Westerby’s founder and chairman, Les McLintic, viewed the deal as a significant advancement, noting that they are actively pursuing further acquisitions to increase market share. As they approach their 40th anniversary in 2026, this acquisition enhances their position as independent advisers and SIPP/SSAS trustees.
This latest announcement from Westerby comes after the firm acquired the specialist pension provider and IFA Redswan in April. For buyers and sellers in today’s advice market, this deal exemplifies how focused specialisation, stable funding models, and values-driven leadership are becoming key differentiators in a competitive landscape. Westerby’s approach stands out not just for the pace of its acquisitions but also for the way it integrates legacy firms while maintaining professional continuity.
At Chapters Capital, we specialise in financial planning and wealth management M&A and understand the importance of strategic acquisitions for growth. Whether you are considering a sale, merger, or expansion or want to learn more about buyers in the space, please contact one of our professional associates today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.
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