Franchisees in the Laing+Simmons boutique real estate business have joined with members of head office to buy the New South Wales firm.

Leanne Pilkington, managing director, is one of the group of 15 owners. She said the purchase is a clear vote of confidence in the business.

“We believe so strongly in the brand that we acquired it, and I look forward to what we will accomplish together under this new ownership. And hey, after leading L+S for 25 years, I figured I may as well be one of the owners too.

“The purchase of Laing+Simmons by network members highlights the confidence we have in the business and the potential for growth we see in the future.”

Leanne said when the opportunity to acquire Laing+Simmons arose, franchisees responded quickly to the offer to buy.

She believes it’s an ideal situation to have business owners heading up the firm.

“What that means for the group as a whole is that the people making the decisions are actually at the coal face of the industry – no one is better place to understand the needs of today’s business owners than our diverse bunch of principals and leaders,” she said.

The real estate business will continue to operate as a franchise while offering new franchisees flexibility in recognition of their specific skills and expertise in their local markets.

“Laing+Simmons has been a fixture in the New South Wales real estate landscape since 1967. We recognise the industry is undergoing rapid evolution, which means franchising needs to evolve as well.”

Leanne said the new shareholder group showcases diversity in age, gender and location, which will stand the business in good stead as it expands.

The franchise network currently has 43 offices in key metropolitan and regional locations.