Two prominent family-run estate agencies, Paton & Co and Peter Graham & Associates, have announced a strategic merger, creating an expanded business entity that will operate across the Scottish Borders, Northumberland, the Highlands, and North East Scotland. The consolidation is set to establish a more robust and comprehensive service offering for clients seeking property and rural advisory expertise across a wider geographical area.
Operating under the Paton & Co brand, the newly combined firm will integrate a team of over 20 professionals, bringing together complementary strengths in various property sectors. This includes specialisms in residential property, rural land, estate management, and a suite of advisory services.
The merger is a direct response to increasing client demand for integrated property and rural advisory services extending across more expansive regions. For existing clients in the Scottish Borders and Northumberland, this integration immediately provides access to a broader range of expertise, encompassing rural advisory services, lettings, and specialised knowledge in areas such as natural capital and renewable energy.
Clients in the north of Scotland will benefit from an enhanced estate agency offering, built upon the established local knowledge and relationships cultivated by Peter Graham & Associates.
Patrick Paton, managing partner of Paton & Co, described the merger as a natural progression:
“This is a natural progression for us. We have built a strong presence in the Borders and Northumberland and this merger allows us to expand that reach while staying true to the way we work.”
“For our clients, this is about access to a broader range of expertise while continuing to deal with the same trusted people. That continuity is critical, particularly for businesses that value long-term advisory relationships.”
The merger also brings a unique family dimension, uniting three members of the same family in leadership roles. Patrick Paton and his wife Celia will join forces with Celia’s father, Peter Graham, as partners in the newly formed business. Peter Graham’s shareholding is slated to gradually reduce over time as part of a planned transition, though he will maintain an active role within the firm for the foreseeable future.
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Peter Graham, owner of Peter Graham & Associates, highlighted the shared ethos of the two entities:
“This is about bringing together two businesses with the same ethos. We are not taking anything away – we are adding services and strengthening what we already do. At its heart, this business has always been built on trust, relationships and giving honest advice, and it was critical to me that it continues.”
Immediate efforts will concentrate on integrating the two teams, ensuring seamless continuity for clients. Future growth across both regions is expected to be supported by targeted recruitment.
