Assante Corp. has unveiled an integrated distribution strategy across its three distribution businesses. Under the plan, the Assante Wealth Management, Assante Private Counsel and IQON Financial Management Inc. units will move to a common administrative platform.

Since its acquisition by CI Fund Management Inc. in November 2003, Assante has been working to leverage CI’s back-office expertise to create a strong operating platform.

Under the new strategy, IQON will join a common back-office platform, and as a result, the IQON back-office infrastructure and corporate functions in Winnipeg, Manitoba, will be consolidated with the rest of Assante’s operations in Ontario.

“We are very excited about our plans for the future of all three businesses and the excellent opportunities each presents,” said Joe Canavan, chairman and CEO of Assante.

“We have significantly restructured and refined our distribution platform since Assante was acquired by CI and are now positioned for significant growth. We will grow our business three ways. We are fully committed to supporting our advisors achieve their goals and objectives, we have recently embarked on a recruitment program and are looking at selective acquisitions.”

Assante says its plan includes maintaining and supporting the three distribution businesses.

IQON Financial is a mostly self-sufficient, community-based individual channel, with an integrated approach to financial planning.

Assante Wealth Management is a corporately branded channel offering with a full level of service, corporate support programs and an integrated approach to wealth management.

Assante Private Counsel is a high-end, corporately branded channel for individuals serving high net worth clients.