Finlay Clark

Scotland managing partner Finlay Clark said a focus and belief in their chosen key markets has resulted in the Scottish arm of the business, which is headquartered in Perth, meeting their original budgeted turnover, posting £5.46 million at year end.

Like most firms, 2020 proved very challenging for the 180-year-old property business but a focus and belief in their chosen key markets has resulted in the Scottish arm of the business meeting their original budgeted turnover, posting £5.46m at year end.

Mr Clark said: “It has been a difficult year for many in lots of different ways but our business adapted phenomenally well. Home working commenced and budgets were re-cast in Q1 but we are very happy to report that we fulfilled our original budget and achieved 3% fee growth on our 2019 result. Being at the forefront of the energy and renewables, forestry, estate management, planning and strategic development sectors has meant that we have achieved a great result as these markets have remained on course with our strategic business plan. In addition, we have embraced a surge in demand for our specialist rural estate agency services.

“We are continuing to expand our forestry, strategic development and energy and renewables teams to meet client and market demand. Rural surveyor Fraser Smith has joined our energy and renewables team at a time when new technology is being brought to the market and a whole mix of opportunities await those willing to invest in green energy and infrastructure.”

Mr Clark said Alastair White, former managing director of Muir Homes Ltd, will be joining the firm as a consultant to boost its  strategic development and planning offering.

He added: “As well as key appointments, one of the most significant moves we have made – and one which impacts on all our service lines – is the introduction of a new Natural Capital and Sustainable Investment service which brings fresh thinking and opportunities to landowners and investors. It’s of particular resonance as we move towards a green-led economic recovery and sustainability in all we do. My colleague Andy Turnbull, who has a proven track record in forestry investment and sustainability will lead this team.

“It truly is exciting times for us, gilded by our recent win of a seven-year contract to continue our management of Crown Estate Scotland’s coastal portfolio. We have worked hard as a firm and this result is a reflection of our dedication and focus.”