A Yorkshire company you can trust

We are a family-run business founded in 1976 by Alan J Picken and based in Yorkshire. Alan still runs the company to this day, along with his son Fraser and a small team of dedicated staff, who work tirelessly to meet the needs of our clients. Our prestigious offices are based on The Grove, in the highly sought-after town of Ilkley.

We have registered clients throughout Yorkshire, North of England, UK, and overseas, many of whom have used our services over the years, seeking to find and buy businesses across a variety of sectors.

A HISTORY OF SUCCESS – OPERATING SINCE 1976

Alan J Picken is a local, established brand that you can trust.

We’ve largely spread through word of mouth and customer referrals due to our focus on customer care and attention to detail.

Since we opened in 1976 we have branched into a diverse range of markets, from traditional brick and mortar retailers through to online businesses, service organisations and more.

WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING

PAUL HAYES

I have recently sold my sandwich shop business using the agents Alan J Picken it has been a pleasure to work with this company from start to finish very professional with a family feel that they care about your sale I would definitely use them again and recommend them to anyone.

HYDE PARK SANDWICH SHOP – DONCASTER

ADRIAN PARKINSON

I've both bought and sold businesses with Alan and from both sides of the coin he, along with his son Fraser, guided me through the whole process in a really helpful way. When I came to put my business up for sale I knew Alan was my first choice. From start to finish they are at the
end of a phone with a really friendly, efficient and personal service. I've heard lots of nightmare stories about selling agents and my only advice to anyone who wants to avoid those companies and problems - sell your business with Alan J Picken.

UNION JACK WEAR LTD - KEIGHLEY

JOE HEPWORTH

I recently sold my business in 3 weeks with Alan J Picken and I can't review them highly enough. I had been burned by other agents and left with no sale and a big bill. Alan and Fraser were so helpful throughout whole process and delivered a quick sale, all within the agreed fees, which were also very reasonable and way cheaper than the competition. Top class service!

HEPWORTH'S DELI - LEEDS

BEN PARKER

I would like to thank (and recommend) Alan Picken for assisting us in finding a buyer for our business. From the initial valuation meeting through to completion was a 6 month process. Great to deal with, I would highly recommend. Good old fashioned honesty and professionalism is what you get here, bearing in mind I was bombarded with calls from agents all over the country I am delighted to have chosen Alan.

4G VOICE & DATA – CASTLEFORD

GRAHAM PENNEY

Despite having a unique type of speciality business, & having initial reservations about an "off the shelf" transfer agent, Alan J Picken BTA have performed extremely well on my behalf, having sold my business with the minimal of time & fuss. His team along with himself showed an excellent standard of professionalism throughout the whole procedure. Would I use them again, without a doubt! Job well done.

YORKSHIRE BRINE SHRIMP SUPPLIES – BRADFORD

ANDREW HARGREAVES

Over the years I have purchased and sold many Companies through Alan J Picken. I have found his Company to be highly efficient and extremely motivated. In this day and age it's very refreshing to deal with someone with the honesty and integrity of Mr. Picken. In the past I have also tried other business transfer agents but his Company is in a different league. When I have another business to sell I will only use him.

THE SOAP GALLERY – OTLEY