Sesame agrees partnership with Abbey and HBOS

The network, which launched in April last year and has plans to float in the second half of 2004, is about to take its roadshow around the UK over the next six weeks.

The two lenders have agreed to offer an exclusive mortgage package to the massive network which includes membership from Countrywide, DBS, Financial Options, IFA Network and Kestrel. It will include enhanced procuration fees, technical support and priority service.

Sesame is announcing the launch of its mortgage network to its 6,000 potential members at regional events around the UK over the next six weeks.

Martin Davis, commercial director for Sesame, said: “Our partnership with the UK’s two biggest lenders demonstrates our commitment to delivering tangible benefits for our members by leveraging our size and scale in the market.”

Ambrose McGinn, director at Abbey for Intermediaries, commented: “We are delighted to be a strategic partner, bringing marketing and promotional support, training and technology as well as leading procuration fees to Sesame members.”

Grenville Turner, chief executive of IF and external sales HBOS, said: “The Sesame network has enabled us to develop for mortgage intermediaries an exclusive offering across our five mortgage brands - Halifax, IF, Birmingham Midshires, Bank of Scotland and TMB - along with Halifax General Insurance and Clerical Medical.”