The firm’s Scottish base is located in Edinburgh.

The acquisition is expected to fuel Finders International’s ambitious growth initiatives and its on-going contribution to the probate genealogy industry in the UK and globally.

Founder, Danny Curran is to step away from the business after 27 years at the helm, with Simonne Llewellyn, former deputy MD, to become Finders International’s first CEO.

Ms Llewellyn joined Finders more than 20 years ago and has been its deputy MD for the last 13 years. She has been a driving force within the research and management teams over recent years, and brings her collaborative management style and empowering leadership skills to the position.

Simonne Llewellyn, CEO of Finders International, said: “I am delighted to take up the position of CEO. It is a very exciting time for the business and, with the backing of Pelican Capital, it is an extremely positive move for Finders generally.

“There are clear opportunities to expand and develop further and I look forward to achieving these alongside the Finders team, our stellar board of directors and the support of Pelican Capital.”

Richard Morrison, partner at Pelican Capital, added: “With our entrepreneurial background, weunderstand what it means to build a business, so it was clear to us from the beginning that Danny had built something unique.

“Over the last 27 years, Finders International has grown from a startup into a market leader, and has developed a brilliant reputation amongst its clients. We are excited to partner with Simonne and her team in their ambitious plans to continue this growth, both organically and potentially by acquisition.”

Danny Curran commented: “Having started Finders International as a sole trader in 1997 and grown the company to become the force it is today, I feel it’s the right time for me to sell.

“It has been a privilege to work with amazing people, solve complex cases, reunite estates with rightful heirs, and bring families back together. I’m leaving the business in really good shape, with a fantastic team in place and plenty of opportunity to expand and develop.

“With Simonne as CEO, an experienced and accomplished leader, along with the strategic input from Pelican Capital, Finders is positioned well for future growth.”