It was a case of opposites attracting. One company was known for its corporate structure, while the other was recognised for its edgy approach to real estate. So when Development Securities and Cathedral Croup merged, it certainly took the industry by surprise. Now nearly two years on from the merger, the resulting company -rebranded U+I in October - has a combined strategy that seeks to build on both DevSecs' and Cathedral's diverse strengths. And its leadership - chief executive Matthew Weiner and his deputy Richard Upton - are keen to talk about their vision for the business, not to mention the creation of a spin-off company dedicated to the private rented sector (PRS). Sitting in U+I's new Victoria offices, the odd couple seem dressed to accentuate their differences. Cathedral founder Upton is tanned and wearing a bright pink shirt with a snazzy waistcoat, while Weiner is sporting a traditional blue pin-striped suit. But they are clearly attuned to one another's way of thinking.
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