As with many stories, though, the start of ours is a humble one. In 1993, our chairman Richard Martin was on holiday in Portugal when he started reading a book about McDonald's, the most famous franchise in the world. After completing it he realised that the best way to forge a successful franchise brand was to depend upon rigid consistency. Richard envisioned a nationwide network of offices under one brand. They would all operate to the same quality standards, but also be independently-run by estate agents with expert knowledge of their local market - a recipe for success. So, after eight years in trading, Richard set up Martin & Co as a franchise, and the company has been constantly growing ever since. Since our first office opened in 1995 we have proven our worth as a system by twice winning Franchise of the Year (2008/2011). In 2011, Martin & Co celebrated 25 years in lettings and estate agency, and in 2013 we began trading on AIM. 2014 brought with it the company's first major acquisition, of the Xperience property group (CJ Hole, Ellis and Co, Parkers, and Whitegates). We also won several awards at the Estate & Letting Agent Awards. There are big plans for the future of Martin & Co, and our ambitions have not dwindled, and to think it's all thanks to McDonald's. If you would like to find out how we can help you on your property investment journey, please feel free to get in touch. Thank you.