Soft launched eight months ago, former Lomond Group senior Lucy Noonan's Atomic Consultancy has got off to a flying start.

Estate agency wants to attract and retain upmarket vendors and buyers with a platform that feeds their passion for posh property.

Franchised agency giant says it is designed for agents who run successful sales or lettings firms but who would like the backing of a well-known national brand.

Simon Leadbetter says his entrepreneurial franchisees are beating historic rivals at their own game in the prime and super-prime markets.

The property expert scooped the honour, staged by Downtown in Business, after being nominated alongside some of the city’s leading business figures.

The London chain says its strong balance sheet and borrowing facilities will push it further along the acquisition trail.

The group acquires another rental agency in Scotland as it continues to grow its UK property portfolio to 35,000.

Research among 800 conveyancers and estate agents finds 20% with no support and many others offered more flexibility, but no real tailored help.