Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by Property Industry Eye. Read the original article for full details.

Jigsaw Estate and Letting Agency Moves to Employee Ownership Model

Jigsaw, an independent estate and letting agency based in Selby, has transferred ownership of the business to its employees through an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). The company stated that this move is intended to secure its long-term future as an independent business and to recognise the contribution of staff who have supported its growth over more than twenty years.

Jigsaw Letting was established in 2001 by Sandra Widdrington. Her daughter, Sharon Northcott, later joined the business, and together with her husband, Davy Northcott, launched Jigsaw Move in 2014, expanding the company’s operations into residential sales.

According to the company, the decision to adopt employee ownership was made instead of selling to an external buyer, with the aim of preserving the agency’s independence and culture while giving staff a stake in its future success. The transition to employee ownership will not affect the day-to-day running of the business, with Sharon and Davy Northcott remaining actively involved. Sharon Northcott will also continue with Jigsaw as a consultant.

The Employee Ownership Trust will be overseen by a board comprising Sharon Northcott, Davy Northcott, Alix Simpkin, Beckie Atton, and Connie Bell.

This development is relevant to UK letting agents and inventory clerks as it highlights an alternative ownership structure that can help maintain company culture and reward long-serving staff within the property sector.