Franchisee welcomes further growth thanks to latest acquisition

A EweMove branch in Staffordshire is celebrating success after being recognised for its ‘ewe-nique’ approach to customer service and growing portfolio of properties, thanks to its latest acquisition. 

EweMove Leek & Hanley won the Best Customer Service award at the hybrid agency’s National Conference last month, with its owner Chris Walthall also being awarded the Franchisee of the Year accolade in recognition of his phenomenal success – launching without any prior industry experience and growing to become one of EweMove’s most successful branches.   

The agency was set up by Chris in 2014 to service the Leek and Hanley areas on the outskirts of Staffordshire. With no agency background or experience but having a successful career in sales-oriented roles, Chris has proudly grown the franchise with both of his sons – Dan and Conor. 

The continuing growth of the agency, which is run from Chris’ office at his home in Leek & Hanley, has also completed on the acquisition of Martin & Co’s high street branch in Biddulph, with its former owners now setting up a dedicated financial services agency next door. The property will be rebranded to EweMove’s iconic signage, has seen two members of staff join the EweMove team, and has added to its property portfolio, bringing it to over 200. 

Chris explained: “As soon as I became aware of EweMove and learnt about its ethical approach to estate agency, providing customers with a personal and digitally-pioneering service combined, it was a no-brainer for me to join the flock.

“I’ve operated the business from my home since 2014 and have a dedicated office space where I can have clients round and focus on my day-to-day work. I have a wonderful relationship with Martin & Co Biddulph’s former owners, and am delighted to be opening up the EweMove branch to service the Biddulph and Kidsgrove areas.”

Nick Neill, Head Shepherd at EweMove Sales & Lettings, commented: “As the very first hybrid estate agency in the UK having launched in 2013, we’ve always had an unwavering commitment to customer service and pioneering technology to support our franchisees UK-wide. Chris thoroughly deserves his Franchisee of the Year award, and we’re thrilled to see the Leek & Hanley area flourishing.”

Chris has been recognised more than once at EweMove’s annual Conference, with him picking up the award for ‘Best Newcomer’ in 2014, Brand Ambassador in 2015, and Best Letting & Growth Performance in 2016.