SBK Property Group acquires two firms in national expansion

SBK Property Group has completed two acquisitions as part of its expansion strategy, purchasing Town & Country Property Auctions (TCPA) and rural property agency Rural Scene.

The group acquired TCPA’s master franchise and North Wales franchise operations, adding to its existing auction platforms SBK Auctions and Auction House Loveitts. According to SBK, the transaction positions the group as the UK’s sixth-largest property auction business by volume.

Geographic expansion

TCPA, which was established in 2010, operates 14 franchise locations across Britain. The acquisition extends SBK’s reach beyond its Midlands base, where it has traditionally concentrated operations.

The group has also acquired Rural Scene, an agency specialising in rural, lifestyle and equestrian properties serving a nationwide client base.

Mike Cleary, co-founder and CEO of SBK Property Group, said the acquisitions represent a significant step in the group’s growth strategy and would strengthen its ability to deliver specialist property services nationally.

Market positioning

The property auction sector has seen consolidation activity as larger groups seek to expand their geographic footprint and service offerings. The acquisitions come as UK mortgage approvals have declined for three consecutive months, potentially increasing demand for auction sales as an alternative route to market.

Cleary stated the acquisitions would support diversification across the group, with the combined auction and rural divisions serving residential property owners, landowners, investors and commercial clients. Properties across the group will be listed on See It Here First, the company’s portal for agents.

Neil McDonald, Chief Executive of TCPA, said the business had been seeking a partner to accelerate growth. Edward Oldrey, director of Rural Scene, indicated that existing clients would continue to receive specialist advice from the current team while accessing services across the wider group.

The financial terms of both acquisitions were not disclosed. The deals follow a period of expansion for SBK Property Group, which has been building its presence in the auction sector through organic growth and acquisitions.