A family-run Belfast Funeral Directors has joined Funeral Partners as the continue to build their presence in Northen Ireland.
Sandy Close Funeral Services, based on Belfast’s Shankill Road, is now part of the UK’s fastest-growing funeral business.
Founder Sandy set up his own company in 1998, having previously worked in the funeral profession for many years for both Houston & Williamson Funeral Directors and James Brown & Sons Funeral Directors in the city. Both businesses became part of the Funeral Partners family back in 2019.
Sandy said that it felt like the right time to think about the future, and that becoming part of Funeral Partners would secure the legacy and growth of the business for years to come.
“I already feel some of the stress and pressure from running your own business lifted, and feel relieved and happier just a few weeks in,” Sandy said.
“Funeral Partners were the only serious option I considered as an acquisition partner.
“The people I met from the company were very experienced and impressive and I am in touch with some contacts and friends who know and have worked with them for a long time. They were all complimentary and shared their positive experiences.
“In the current climate, it is financially challenging for an independent Funeral Directors, with things like increased regulation, rising costs and tax changes.
“By joining Funeral Partners I can refocus my energy and actually switch off in the evenings and weekends, knowing we have the support from the wider team.
“The first few weeks were intense but having somebody here to help us through the first stages of the integration process, was really valuable.
“I definitely want to stay on and continue doing what I am passionate about, so it was great to have that option while having the benefits of investment, marketing support, administration, compliance and more.”
The business remains family run, with Sandy at the helm and his daughter Catherine and sister-in-law Christine all holding key roles within the team. Wife Agnes previously worked there too, and having recently retired, continues to be an ambassador within the local community.
“One of the big factors for me in choosing Funeral Partners was keeping my name above the door, to protect our legacy,” Sandy said.
“I want to stay working in the business for a long time to come, and, in future generations I want my grandchildren and great-grandchildren to look at our business and know it was me who founded the Funeral Directors and be proud of that.
Sam Kershaw, Funeral Partners CEO, said: “We are delighted to welcome Sandy andthe team at Sandy Close Funeral Services. They have built up an enviable reputation for providing a high-quality, personalised service and they maintain close links to community organisations and the Church – I am proud to see them become part of our network.
“This acquisition in Northern Ireland strengthens our presence in the region and supports our ambitions for further expansion within the region in the near future.”
