Avenues take over fuels Searchmate's expansion

Personal introductions agency Searchmate has announced an agreement to acquire competitor Avenues' assets, including its membership.

The company operates through franchised local offices which provide assistance and a regular point of contact for members searching for a partner. 'The takeover makes great sense for both Avenues and Searchmate clients - immediately we have a hugely increased number of people to match with both sets of members and that is what everyone wants - more opportunity to find their soulmate,' says Searchmate Managing Director Adrian Slatter, who initially joined the network as a franchisee before acquiring the entire operation in 2005.

'When I took over I took time to review the whole operation, but recognised that I needed an expert and impartial review of the business - so I called Franchise Development Services and had a consultation with Franchise Consultants Gordon Patterson and Gary Rigby.'

The resulting operational overhaul has seen the company grow dramatically to become the biggest franchised agency in the UK with 18 offices across England and Wales. 'In many ways finding the right franchise is like finding the perfect life partner - they have to be right for you and you have to be right for them!' adds Adrian. 'We have big plans and we're seeking a number of quality franchisees to share in our growth.'