Blackbear expands to seven branches with Welvan acquisition
The Welsh estate agency has acquired Neath-based Welvan in its 25th anniversary year, with two Blackbear directors returning to their home town.
Welsh estate agency, Blackbear, has acquired Welvan Estate Agents in Neath, taking its network to seven branches less than two and a half years after launching in Pembrokeshire.
The deal coincides with Welvan’s 25th anniversary, marking a quarter of a century serving the local residential sales and lettings market.
Welvan’s Ceri and Howard (main image, far left to right) will remain with the business alongside the existing team, retaining their local knowledge and established client relationships as the agency enters its next chapter.
The acquisition also has a personal significance for Blackbear, with two of its directors born and raised in Neath.
Our ambition is to build a leading Welsh estate agency, with people who know their communities at the heart of it.”
Blackbear director, Simon (main image, second to left) said: “Welvan has spent 25 years building a trusted name in Neath. That reputation, and the people behind it, are what made this such an attractive opportunity for us.
“Having Ceri, Howard and the whole team staying on is a huge part of this. We want to build on what they have achieved, combining their knowledge of the town with Blackbear’s brand, marketing and growing branch network.”
Welsh network
Blackbear launched in Pembrokeshire in 2024 and has expanded through a combination of branch openings and acquisitions, building a presence across Pembrokeshire, Swansea and the Vale of Glamorgan before its latest move into Neath.
Former Wales international and British & Irish Lions scrum-half Gareth Davies, who continues to play professionally for the Scarlets, is one of the firm’s business partners.
Davies commented: “To reach seven branches in less than two and a half years is something we’re very proud of. We’re now competing across a growing part of Wales with agencies that have been established for decades.
“Our ambition is to build a leading Welsh estate agency, with people who know their communities at the heart of it. Neath is an important part of that ambition, and we’re delighted to be taking this next step with the Welvan team.”