A SKIPTON loan services firm is set to be acquired by another company in a move that will impact around 150 to 200 employees.

Financial services company Computershare, which is based in offices at Belle Vue Square, on Broughton Road, Skipton, has agreed to sell its UK Loans Services business to Pepper Advantage, an international credit management and technology firm.

The deal, which is subject to regulatory approval, is expected to increase Pepper Advantage’s assets under management in the UK to around £50 billion.

A spokesperson for Computershare said: “I can confirm that Computershare has agreed to sell its UK Loan Services business to Pepper Advantage.

“We anticipate the deal to complete in the next four to six months subject to regulatory approval.

“The UK mortgage market has changed considerably over the past few years and, after a strategic review, we determined that our UK loan servicing operation would benefit from an owner that can further invest in the business.

“For now, it’s business as usual ,and our focus remains on providing excellent standards of service to our clients and their customers.

“The UK Loan Services business will continue to operate from its offices in Skipton, Derry and Sunderland after the sale.”

Aegis, the union that represents employees at Computershare, is supporting the Skipton firm’s 150 to 200 employees through the transition period.

A spokesperson for Aegis said: “In response to the announcement by Computershare that they have sold Computershare Loan Service to Pepper Advantage, at this stage, it is important to stress:

• You will transfer on your existing Terms and Conditions.
• We will work closely with both Computershare and Pepper Advantage to make sure there is no detriment to your pay, benefits or working conditions.
• The process requires FCA approval, which may take up to six months before completion.
• Once approved, there will be a longer transition period where systems and operations are gradually moved across.

“We recognise that this announcement may bring uncertainty, but please be assured that Aegis will support you throughout this process – we will monitor developments closely, raise any concerns directly with both companies and ensure your voices are heard at every stage.

“If you have questions or concerns, we encourage you to share them with us so we can represent you effectively.

“Please contact us at members@aegistheunion.co.uk”

Computershare moved from Gateway House in Skipton to new premises in Broughton Road after securing planning permission from North Yorkshire Council in October 2024.