HLPartnership (HLP) was the fastest growing mortgage-focused network in the UK in 2025, welcoming a net increase of 54 appointed representative firms during the year. That growth reflects a broader shift in the advice market, as firms increasingly look for strong compliance frameworks, proprietary technology and long-term support to help them operate effectively in a more demanding regulatory environment and build sustainable, client-focused businesses.
The result sits within a wider market shift. Figures published by Network Consulting, following a Freedom of Information request to the Financial Conduct Authority, show the mortgage network sector continuing to expand, while the directly authorised market contracted.
Across the top 30 networks holding mortgage permissions, there was a net increase of 275 appointed representative firms in 2025. Over the same period, the directly authorised market fell by 247 firms and 516 advisers.
What we are seeing in the market
As the regulatory environment becomes more demanding, firms are placing greater value on the strength, consistency and breadth of support provided by a network. The emphasis has moved towards clear oversight, robust evidence, operational discipline and the ability to demonstrate good consumer outcomes on an ongoing basis, alongside the practical realities of running an advice business in a tougher environment.
Expectations around technology have also shifted. Firms increasingly want systems that help them operate efficiently, stay close to clients throughout the lifecycle and manage activity in a way that is measurable, repeatable and scalable.
In that context, many firms are looking to HLPartnership not only for a compliance framework, but for partnership across the wider needs of the business, including proprietary technology, award-winning marketing support, product access and operational infrastructure. Just as importantly, they want to be part of a strong community, with opportunities to learn, share and stay connected through a year-round events programme and access to leadership. It is about having the right foundations and the right network around you, so advisers can focus on advice, client relationships and long-term business sustainability
Why firms choose HLPartnership
HLP has grown by maintaining a clear and consistent proposition for advisers and the businesses behind them.
Firms that join and remain with us typically value:
- Proprietary technology, built in-house for members, that helps advisers work efficiently, stay close to clients throughout the lifecycle and engage proactively
- A strong compliance culture and experienced oversight, providing clear frameworks and consistent standards
- A culture advisers want to be part of, underpinned by a strong community, peer-to-peer support, and direct access to senior leadership
- A year-round programme of events and training, supporting ongoing development, shared best practice and connection across the network
- Practical support that reduces operational friction, helping firms run well day to day
- Comprehensive access to mortgage, protection, general insurance and later life lending products, supporting a broader advice proposition
- Award-winning marketing support, helping firms attract, engage and retain clients in a compliant way
- A partnership approach that supports different business models and stages of growth
The focus is on enabling firms to concentrate on advice, client relationships and the long-term development of their business.
Our focus going forward
HLP will continue to invest in the areas that matter most to member firms, delivering a technology and service-led proposition that supports adviser success, sustainable growth and good consumer outcomes.
Our growth in 2025 reflects not only firms choosing to join HLPartnership, but firms choosing to stay. It signals a preference for a network with strong foundations, practical support and a long-term commitment to helping advisers build resilient, well-run businesses.
