Rising Stars

Firms To Watch: Corporate and commercial: elsewhere in the North West

Steered by Preston-based Nicholas Fielden, the team at Fielden Marshall Glover Strutt advises investment firms, entrepreneurs, and private family offices in corporate transactions.

Corporate and commercial: elsewhere in the North West in North West

Aaron & Partners LLP

Aaron & Partners LLP regularly handles a range of corporate and commercial matters, including reorganisations, acquisitions, equity and debt investments. Underscored by its International Advisory Group membership, the team is regularly instructed by US companies for assistance in cross-border transactions. The department is headed by Stuart Scott-Goldstone, noted for his expertise in the technology, renewable energy and care sectors. Jamie Hawley has particular expertise acting for banks and financial institutions on issues such as joint ventures and disposals, while Jennifer Harrison, experienced in partnership law, frequently works on supply agreements for businesses. All named lawyers are based in Chester.

Practice head(s):

Stuart Scott-Goldstone


Other key lawyers:

Jennifer Harrison; Jamie Hawley


Testimonials

Incredibly good practice. Very responsive and truly care to ensure you have the best representation. We will be engaging them again.

I’m glad I got Jamie Hawley for this acquisition. Well regarded by both myself and the other side.’

Key clients

Sicut Enterprises Ltd


KNP Logistics Group Limited


Special Needs Care Limited


UK Caravans Direct Ltd


Blaumar Capital


Work highlights


Forbes Solicitors

Forbes Solicitors provides the full spectrum of corporate and commercial services, with particular expertise in commercial contracts, as well as sector-specific expertise in the worlds of IT and construction. The team is also known for its experience of protecting intellectual property rights and reviewing portfolios for its clients.  David Filmer focuses on complex demergers and Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) buyouts. He co-heads the practice with John Pickervance, who frequently assists clients with contractual and intellectual property matters. In Manchester, Jenny Burke acts for banks, insolvency practices, and financial advisers across the technology, leisure and tourism sectors, to name a few. All named lawyers are based in Preston unless stated otherwise.

Practice head(s):

David Filmer; John Pickervance


Other key lawyers:

Jenny Burke


Testimonials

‘Having worked with several local law firms I have always found Forbes offer the best service as they always put the client first. The partners and staff I have worked with are excellent. I have received positive feedback when recommending Jenny Burke and Victoria Motley. Their service is professional, attitude is always positive, and they always have time to listen to clients to ensure they are meeting all their needs.’

‘The team at Forbes are highly knowledgeable and professional, providing reliable and appropriate advice and guidance. What makes Forbes unique is their friendly and approachable way of conducting business, alongside their exceptional knowledge and skills. This is something that isn’t always provided by other firms, who can often feel cold and clinical in their approach to client relationships.’

‘I have primarily worked alongside Jenny Burke on a number of commercial law matters with my clients, all of whom have found Jenny’s support and knowledge exceptional. I always know that I can recommend Jenny in complete confidence, knowing that the service she and her colleagues will provide to my clients will be of the highest standard.’

Key clients

Eleven Sports Media Limited


YourZooki Limited


WEC Group Limited


MTL Advanced Limited


Nextmune Limited


Osan Limited t/a Sock Shop


SEP Professional Services Limited


Bright Blue Foods Limited


Brookhouse Aerospace Limited


Sundown Solutions Limited


Broderick Group Limited


Keep Britain Tidy


Sugar Hill Boxing LLC


Northcoders Group PLC


B2C Distribution Limited


Andrew Porter Group


Anthony Sewell and Peter Wallace


Ataraxia Broking Limited


CDK Group Services


C.G. Turnbull Holdings


Fairport Group


FRP Advisory


Landfill Projects Limited


Mark Hallam and Stuart Forrest


Minority Venture Partners Limited


Northpoint Publishing


Opus Restructuring LLP


PM&M Accountants


Trust Inns


R&G Fluid Power Group Limited


Venturi Healthcare Limited


Work highlights


  • Acted for Senator International Limited in negotiating a deal to secure a multi-million-pound investment in solar PV equipment for a large manufacturer across multiple sites.
  • Acted for the sellers in relation to the disposal of the entire issued share capital of Pavement Testing Services Limited to the Nottingham based Phenna Group.
  • Acted for Broderick Group Limited to secure a multi-year deal to provide a retail on demand service with the Co-op.

Gorvins Solicitors

Gorvins Solicitors‘ extensive corporate and commercial practice ranges from acquisitions, MBOs, and disposals to outsourcing, e-commerce and agency arrangements. The firm is noted for its capabilities in the media and publishing sectors, as well as for its burgeoning position in the wealth management world. Practice co-chair Andrew Curwen is experienced in venture capital and debt finance work, while fellow co-chair Christian Mancier is a key port of call for a number of family-owned businesses. Other key names to note include Paul Lupton, whose broad coverage includes logistics and technology sector matters; Gemma Lingard, who often advises on company restructurings and contractual issues; and Rowan Uren, praised by clients for his ‘strong technical acumen‘ and ‘eye for detail‘. All named lawyers are based in Stockport.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Curwen; Christian Mancier


Other key lawyers:

Paul Lupton; Gemma Lingard; Rowan Uren


Testimonials

‘Responsive and personable team with whom I’ve built up a working relationship over many years. They give clear advice and offer up-front fee quotes for work which helps build trust and deliver value for our business.’

‘A strength is their focus on SME family-run businesses where the team understand the dynamics of family businesses and this results in tailored advice that benefits the client.’

‘They provide a wide range of services, the ones of which we have used have been excellent.’

‘Christian Mancier provides excellent service as a partner. Very supportive, very commercially minded, and quick and constructive when it comes to finding a way through difficulties.’

Rowan Uren demonstrated strong technical acumen, an eye for detail and is a capable negotiator.’

Key clients

Valour Finance Group Plc


William Reed Limited


Astute Private Wealth Limited


Williams Motor Group


Mondiale Publishing Limited


CGA Strategy Limited


Alan Howard (Stockport) Limited


Rowlinson Group Limited


e-Foods Limited


Tandom Metallurgical Group Limited


Innov8 Technology Group Limited


Aerofoil Energy Limited


Sheet Piling (UK) Limited


Work highlights


  • Acted for the Shareholders of CGA Strategy Limited on the sale of 80% of the entire issued share capital of CGA Strategy Limited to Nielsen IQ.
  • Acted for the shareholders on the sale of the entire issued share capital of EF Group Ltd to Foodbuy Europe Limited.
  • Acted for Innov8 Technology Group Limited in respect of their acquisition of Wharncliffe Business Systems Limited.

Myerson Solicitors LLP

Turned to by a diverse roster of banks, private equity firms, and public companies, Myerson Solicitors LLP advises clients across a number of sectors, including technology, life sciences, and real estate. Practice head Mohammed Akeel Latif specialises in corporate finance work relating to mergers, equity investment and restructurings. Scott Sands notably acts for small to medium size enterprises, while Andrew Brown‘s broad experience encompasses joint ventures and share options. Other key figures include Terry Moore, a specialist in professional services; Chris Moss, who is particularly well-versed in the financial services sector work; and Carla Murray, noted for her experience in compliance matters. All named lawyers are based in Altrincham.

Practice head(s):

Akeel Latif


Other key lawyers:

Scott Sands; Andrew Brown; Chris Moss; Carla Murray; Terry Moore


Testimonials

‘Well resourced and able team that expertly and adequately handle whatever we throw at them as our retained commercial lawyers.’

‘Scott Sands continues to be the most accessible and down to earth law firm partner that I have ever engaged with, he is our go to for any issues which he swiftly delegates to the experts within the firm depending on the nature of the requirement, providing consistent oversight and interest until completion of respective matters.’

‘They have always looked at the whole picture and taken time to understand my business, so advice is tailored. No time-wasting and treated like I am their only client.’

‘The whole team is responsive and highly approachable, taking time to understand the business and framing legal matters in a manner understandable to the audience – working with a range of people across our business.’

‘Responsive, always willing to provide some direction, guidance and support, even at short notice, and, due to the familiarity of the business across the team, there are multiple contact points which means there is always somebody to speak to who understands our company and objectives.’

‘Smaller boutique corporate team who are very responsive, professional and add value to corporate transactions.’

‘Flexible, hands-on, solid knowledge, put client first.’

Key clients

TUV Rheinland UK Limited


AQA Education


Everything Genetic Ltd


International Pheromones Systems Limited


APS Events & Media Ltd


Money Carer Foundation


Cre8ive Eco


Rimini Systems Ltd


Moov Limited


Green Valley Leisure Resorts Limited


Panthera Biopartners Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised TUV Rheinland UK Limited in relation to multiple acquisitions, including the acquisition of DGauge Limited.
  • Advised AQA Education on four acquisitions in the EdTech and education consultancy sectors, as part of its continued acquisition strategy.
  • Advised Everything Genetic Ltd on its contracts primarily for cancer testing services.

Napthens LLP

Drawing strong praise from clients, who variously regard the team as ‘very strong in terms of both technical expertise and client service‘, Napthens LLP‘s broad client offering ranges from commercial contracts to corporate transactions. The department advises a number of large corporates, owner managers and institutional clients across the manufacturing and financial services sectors. Based in Preston, practice co-chair Keith Melling is noted for his experience acting for clients in a host of transactions, particularly those concerning employee ownership trusts. He co-heads the team alongside Blackburn-based Richard Robinson, who is well-versed in venture capital matters, and Embsay-based Jon Esner, whose broad practice spans compliance, regulatory, and commercial contract advice.

Practice head(s):

Keith Melling; Richard Robinson; Jon Esner


Testimonials

‘The team takes the time to understand the needs of our business and quickly align on any advice that we may require. Local, available quickly, and have a good understanding of the business which facilitates a speedy response.’

‘They are very easy to work with; responsive and provide robust strategic advice.’

‘You get the feeling they are working for each other and have always represented my own goals and values. Technology in reviewing documents and signing is fully utilised.’

Key clients

Andrew Industries Ltd


Danbro group of companies


Partington Group


Assystem Energy & Infrastructure Limited


Holker group of companies


Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund (NW)


Futureserv Limited


ROQ Ltd


Wireless Social Group Ltd


Abbey Logistics Ltd


Westmorland Limited


Presspart Manufacturing Limited


RCI


The Blackburn Rovers Football and Athletic Limited


Plumbs Limited


Heritage Great Britain plc


EH Booth & Co Limited


Phoenix Safe Company Limited


Suresite Card Services Limited


Clearwater Consultancy Ltd


Industria Systems UK Limited


MK Illuminations UK


MK Experience Ltd


MID Group (including MID Communications Limited and MID Digital Limited)


Nutreelife Limited


SIBA


Fletchers Solicitors Ltd


RingCentral UK Ltd


T Sumner Smith Ltd


GRP 55 Ltd


BMP Europe Limited


Rosetta Brands Limited


Michael Davies and Associates Limited t/a Staci UK


Flexiss Consultants Limited and Flexiss Management Services Limited


Derian House Children’s Hospice


Addison Project plc


Work highlights


SAS Daniels LLP

Working across offices in Chester, Stockport, Macclesfield, and Congleton, SAS Daniels LLP is a key port of call for a diverse range of SME clients, who turn to the team for its ‘excellent’ advice across corporate and commercial issues. The team is headed by transactional lawyer Jeremy Orrell, a highly experienced practitioner whose capabilities are concentrated in corporate finance and commercial matters. Chester-based Kaye Whitby has a strong reputation for advising local businesses on the legal aspects of their commercial and operational requirements. Stockport-based Andy Booth specialises in music industry mandates – acting for a host of household names – while Congleton-based Paul Tyrer‘s recent engagements include multi-million-pound transactions in the chemicals sector.

Practice head(s):

Jeremy Orrell


Other key lawyers:

Kaye Whitby; Andy Booth; Paul Tyrer


Testimonials

‘Well-led team with Jeremy always in control and client-facing.’

‘Jeremy Orrell is a good communicator who provides very prompt and thoughtful guidance for clients. Commercial advice is excellent, and very understanding of different needs.’

Key clients

Pentre Group Holdings


Medical Air Technology Limited


Beech Developments (NW) Limited


The Challenge Group


High Court Enforcement Group


TFLI Limited


Louver-lite Limited


Fayrefield Foods Limited


R & B Switchgear Limited


Hyde Park Finance


Rowlinson Knitwear Limited


Work highlights


Brabners LLP

With a notably strong footing in the IT and construction sectors, the 'commercial' and 'professional' team at Brabners LLP specialises in mid-market work, acting for a host of entrepreneurs, private companies, SMEs, and family businesses. The corporate department provides a full range of services including M&A, group reorganisations, insolvency, and employee ownership transitions. Nicola Whittle co-heads the team with Richard Hough whose commercial focus encompasses outsourcing, franchising, and joint venture agreements. Mairead Platt - a member of the firm's tech sector practice - is a key name to note within the corporate offering.

Practice head(s):

Nicola Whittle; Richard Hough


Other key lawyers:

Mairead Platt


Testimonials

‘Very commercial and approachable.’

‘Pleasant and professional.’

Key clients

Mark Todd & Ian Thomason


Dent Instrumentation Limited


Granby Marketing Services Limited


ProAct International Limited


Suez Advanced Solutions UK Limited


Eventura Limited


Work highlights


  • Assisted ProAct International Ltd with a number of commercial transactions.
  • Advised Dent Instrumentation Limited on its transition to employee ownership.
  • Advised Granby Marketing Services Limited on its transition to employee ownership.

Butcher & Barlow LLP

Noted for its expertise in employee share schemes, as well as for its burgeoning presence in healthcare sector work, the corporate and commercial team at Butcher & Barlow LLP operates primarily between the Bury, Gadbrook Park, and Bramhall offices, advising a mix of clients on a steady stream of acquisitions, mergers and disposals. The team is chaired by Justin Kelly, who regularly deals with both asset and share deals, in addition to multi-million pound disposals.

Practice head(s):

Justin Kelly


Testimonials

‘Our experience of the team is that they are approachable and personal and get across their recommendations in a clear and concise manner. They consider issues commercially and provide practicable advice.’

‘They liaise with our queries and referrals in a timely manner and try and provide clear recommendations having considered the commercial reality of the situation.’

‘All very straightforward and efficient. It felt like a complex issue for us, but it was so smooth and easy. It also came in below budget, which was very welcome.’

Key clients

Joseph Holt Brewery


Aeroco Group Limited


Depledge Strategic Wealth Management


Law Distribution


Fords of Winsford


P & H Evans Limited


London Stone Paving Limited


ABC Digital Ltd


Maybank Security


K Steels limited


Horsfield-Smith Ltd


Altrincham Medical Practice


Bramhall Lane Lawn Tennis Club


DTE Accountants


Kris Motor Spares


North West Water Services


GITI TIRE (UK) Limited


St Johns Medical Centre


Tiger Trailers Ltd


Elixir Software Ltd


Absolute Recruitment


Brand Vista


KCA Holdings Limited


Balterley Beer Co


BRG Enterprise Holdings Ltd


Recycling PVC Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised on the disposal of the entire issued share capital of Brand Vista Limited to Definition Agency.
  • Acted in the sale of controlling interest in Absolute Solutions Group to Gap Personnel.
  • Advised in the sale of a private dental practice to a substantial dental group for IEO £6m.

DTM Legal LLP

With a diverse corporate client roster which includes alternative funding organisations, banks, investment, and insurance companies, DTM Legal LLP's recent workload has seen the team advising on share schemes, corporate restructuring, and governance issues, among other matters. The practice is chaired by Edward Barnes, who has particular expertise in domestic and international joint ventures, as well as branding and intellectual property matters. Alison Brennan is a highly experienced corporate and commercial lawyer who regularly advises corporate lenders and borrowers on finance and security arrangements. All named lawyers are based in Chester.

Practice head(s):

Edward Barnes


Other key lawyers:

Alison Brennan


Testimonials

‘I have dealt with both the commercial side and the property side of DTM and have found them to be extremely efficient at expediting the business of the day. We have also received advice on how to proceed, which has assisted our company in taking the right path and therefore saving the business a significant amount of money in the long run.’

‘We have mainly dealt with Alison Brennan on the commercial side and Stephen Lunt on the property side. Both have been extremely knowledgeable and concise with their advice and directions. We have always felt in control of our own pathway, even when others have been difficult in their dealings with my company.’

Very open and honest on billing and costs.’

Key clients

Village Bakery Group


Marine Specialised Technology Limited


Dee 106.3 Limited


Rotex Europe Limited / Hillenbrand Inc


Angel Solutions Limited


Clwydian Group Limited


Clogau Gold of Wales Limited


D A Roberts Fuels Limited


Centegra Limited


Ellison Europe Limited


Event Marketing Solutions Limited / EMS Healthcare


Evolution Costs Limited


Evoke Creative Limited


The Ice Cream Farm Ltd


Cheshire Farm Ice Cream Ltd


Callitech Limited


The Cygnet Group of Companies


Typhoo Tea Limited


Codex Integrity Limited


Tapestry (Partners) Limited


Calder Group Limited and Calder Industrial Materials Limited


Boardlink Group Limited


Lewis Reed (WAV) Limited


Charles Owen & Company (COMFG Limited)


Pointogic Holdings BV


Peaty’s Ltd


Swishfund Ltd


Bikmo Limited


DriveWorks Limited


Morris & Co (2011) Limited


Aviagen Turkeys Limited and Hockenhull Turkeys Limited


Catalyst Interiors Limited


Exsellence Limited


Smylie Limited


Spun Gold TV Limited


Staingard Limited


Barlows (UK) Limited


Aquilium Travel Limited


Burek Bow Limited


Foundation Piling Limited


NetWorld Sports Limited


Prima Business Control Software Limited


Whole House Ventilation Services Limited


Ortus UK Limited


T&L Leasing Limited


Jennings Building & Civil Engineering Limited


Warmfront Group


Surgitrac Instruments Group Limited


Proteus Facades Limited


MCS Service Company Ltd


Harrogate Consultants Limited


Formwork Direct Limited


Delavan Limited


Cokebusters Limited


Beresford Adams Commercial Limited


AD Recycling Holdings Limited


Sterling Services Group


Electricity Solutions Limited


Pace Commerce Limited


A. & B. Engineering (Electrical Service Division) Limited


Association of Professional Organisers and Declutterers


Brett UK Property Limited/Willaston Developments Ltd/Luxury New Homes Ltd


CCI Credit Management Limited


Elite Dynamics UK Ltd


FI Real Estate Management Limited / FI Facilities Management Limited


LexTego Ltd


Prodigy Sports Group LLP


Regentia Lifestyle Planning/Regency Financial Advice Group


Springfield Day Nurseries Limited


Jonothan Bryan Limited


 


 


 


Work highlights


  • Acted for the shareholders and management of Forget Me Not Residential Home Limited in relation to sale of the entire issued share capital of the company to Endurance Health Slough Ltd.
  • Advised on a complex reorganisation for Warmfront involving a buy-back of own shares and multiple share for share exchange transactions.
  • Acted on behalf of a large financial services business (Regency Financial Advice Ltd) in implementing a multi-million-pound MBO.

Farleys Solicitors LLP

The corporate and commercial practice at Farleys Solicitors LLP acts on a variety of sales and purchases for SMEs in addition to carrying out complex corporate restructures and demergers. The team has particular expertise in healthcare and routinely advises clients within the optics industry. Debbie King specialises in business acquisitions, sales, joint ventures and mergers. She co-heads the practice with Richard Bell who acts for clients across the SME market including owner-managed businesses, entrepreneurs and start-ups.


Practice head(s):

Debbie King; Richard Bell


Work highlights


  • Advised the owners of B&W Plant Hire & Sales Ltd on the sale of the business to The Fox Group.
  • Advised the shareholders of FabSpeed Holdings Limited on the sale of its entire share capital to Michelmersh Brick Holdings PLC.
  • Advised B&M Henderson Limited on its sale to North West Roofing Supplies Limited.

HM3 Legal

HM3 Legal regularly works with its clients on the full gamut of corporate and commercial matters, ranging from M&A transactions and joint ventures, to regulatory reviews and contractual matters. The department is headed up by Anne Scheland, an experienced SME-focused adviser noted for her expetise in shareholder disputes and director disputes. Joanne Shelley offers specialist IP advice across the the science, manufacturing, construction, and logistics sectors.

Practice head(s):

Anne Scheland


Other key lawyers:

Joanne Shelley


Testimonials

‘The team explains the details of complicated cases in simple, easy to understand, non-legal jargon. Their attitude towards problem-solving focuses on finding practical, honest solutions which are in the best interests of their clients. They work closely with other professionals, leading from the front and understanding that the client is always the key to any transaction and at the core of any work being undertaken.’

‘The mindset of the partners and staff stands out as one of the best features of the practice.’

Key clients

EA Technology Limited


TestEquity Limited


Big Fang Collective Limited


Roberts Manufacturing Limited


Manor House Stables LLP


National Westminster Bank plc


Joule Group Limited


Puro Ventures Limited t/a Speedy Freight


Edge Transport Limited


F. Duerr & Sons Limited


Platts Agriculture Limited


Outerspace Buildings Limited


The Bolesworth Estate


Garadry Limited


Energy Innovation Centre


Framtio Limited


Work highlights


  • Acted for the US based Deepsea Technologies Inc in the acquisition of AF Global Limited.
  • Advised the shareholders of Vivio Limited in the sale to Babble Cloud Holdings Limited.
  • Advised the Shareholders of Big Fang Collective Limited in connection with the equity investment by Imbiba.

Jolliffe & Co LLP

Turned to by a diverse range of multinational corporations, local SMEs, not-for-profit organisations, and entrepreneurs, Jolliffe & Co LLP provides the full spectrum of corporate and commercial services for clients active across a range of sectors, including telecommunications, leisure, healthcare, construction and e-commerce. Practice chair Sharon Auld is noted for her expertise in employment issues related to acquisitions. Other names to note include Ryan Marr, praised for his ‘knowledgeable, helpful, and proactive‘  approach in both corporate and commercial mandates. Mark Fergusson left the firm in April 2023.

Practice head(s):

Sharon Auld


Other key lawyers:

Ryan Marr


Testimonials

‘Excellent, group with expertise that spans every field. One-stop shop.’

‘We have found Ryan Marr most knowledgeable, helpful and proactive.’

 

Key clients

Bagnall & Morris (Waste Services) Limited


Challenger Mobile Communications Holdings Limited


Datascope Systems Limited


Farsight Security Services Limited


Browns (Shopfitting & Construction) Limited


KTSL Limited


Brenig Construction Limited


La-Z-Boy UK Limited


Socialsignin Limited


Ninja Leisure UK Management Limited


Leisure Television Rights Limited


Linney Cooper Limited


Deeside House Education Trust Limited


Medistickit Limited


Brooktherm Refrigeration Limited


Acacia Training Limited


ABL Planning & Development Limited


Majuma Limited


Signum Intelligence Limited


Mechlam Precision Tooling Limited


NWT Horseshoes Limited


Rollon S.p.A.


Ocean Polymers Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised Ninja Leisure UK Management Limited on its corporate and commercial matters, including acquisitions.
  • Advised Bagnall & Morris (Waste Services) Limited on its corporate and commercial matters.

MLP Law LLP

Noted for its strength in IP-driven matters, MLP Law LLP  - praised by clients for its 'first-class advice' - handles corporate and commercial work across the technology, hospitality, catering, healthcare and insurance sectors. Stephen Attree - a key port of call for the firm's NHS client base - regularly works on corporate transactions, including mergers and takeovers. He co-heads the team alongside Rachel Owen, who has a wealth of experience in restructures and insurance broker sales.

Practice head(s):

Stephen Attree; Rachel Owen


Testimonials

‘Very efficient and responsive in engaging clients, keeping them up to date on the progress of matters, and responding to queries.’

‘Rachel Owen is extremely personable and easy to contact. She breaks down technical, legal jargon into plain English! She is very empathetic to client issues.’

‘A really great multidisciplinary team able to handle my firm needs, I have dealt with many solicitors in over fifty acquisitions and MLP stand out as pragmatic and proportional with sound, hands-on advice.’

Key clients

Minehead Medical Centre


 


Work highlights


Harrison Drury & Co

The corporate and commercial practice at Harrison Drury & Co is experienced across a number of sectors, including professional services, manufacturing, hospitality, retail, and not-for-profit. The team’s services include M&A, shareholder agreements, corporate governance matters and management buy-outs. Mark Traynor recently joined as North West corporate head from TLT; he handles both M&A and private equity deals. David Edwards is head of regulatory and compliance team; he works alongside Nick Booth, a seasoned commercial litigator, and Lancaster corporate head Jack Stephenson, whose client base includes software companies, manufacturers, petrochemical companies and sports clubs. The firm also recently opened a Manchester office led by Richard Life, who joined from TLT in December 2023.

Practice head(s):

Mark Traynor; Nick Booth; Jack Stephenson; David Edwards


Other key lawyers:

Kerry Southworth; Timothy Grover; Rick Life


Testimonials

‘Jack Stephenson takes a pragmatic and sensible approach to the way he works on a transaction, which ultimately saves the client time and money at the same time as protecting the client’s best interest. I trust Jack to look after any client of mine and actively encourage them to use Jack’s services.’

‘Great team.’

‘Very approachable.’

‘The team are super efficient, I deal with solicitors every day and Harrison Drury go above and beyond, leaving nothing to chance. I have no reservations in recommending them. Clients to whom I have introduced the firm have since gone on to use them on a permanent basis.’

‘The corporate and commercial services team at Harrison Drury provide an excellent, down to earth and easily accessible service which is rare to find. They provide good common sense commercial advice at frankly a fraction of the cost of their competitors.’

‘Jack Stephenson has a very approachable and calm manner and is able to easily guide businesses through difficult commercial documents and provide good pragmatic advice.’

‘Their transparency, responsiveness and legal knowledge sets them apart.’

‘The team are extremely responsive, you get to know the whole team so if someone is away you know there will be another friendly face that can assist. They are able to explain matters to clients in a really user-friendly manner, avoiding legal jargon.’

Key clients

Rawcliffe Hall Caravan Park


Walker Fire


Edward Best and Paul Council


Work highlights


  • Acted for Rawcliffe Hall Caravan Park on the sale of the business and assets, including transfer of all the property and employees.
  • Advised a local SME on a share purchase of a portable toilet company.
  • Advised Walker Fire on the acquisition of shares in Southern Fire Protection Ltd and the acquisition of shares in Detector Alarms Ltd.

Primas

Rated for its 'strong depth of knowledge' and 'exceptional deal skills', Primas' broad coverage sees the team advising on a host of corporate and commercial matters, including disposals and management buy-outs, as well as a range of contractual issues. The practice is headed up by Gary Black, a 'very effective figure on corporate deals' with key expertise in M&A, investment transactions, reorganisations and joint ventures.

Practice head(s):

Gary Black


Testimonials

‘A friendly and approachable team with a strong depth of knowledge who go the extra mile to assist and provide the best advice.’

‘The knowledge base, service, and value for money are the key drivers in my staying with a company, I don’t see myself going anywhere else for the foreseeable future.’

‘Positive friendly approach with clients, effective communication and exceptional deal skills, strong on restructuring.’

Key clients

Mi Hiepa Scout


Manchester Drinks Company Limited


Altrix Technology Ltd


Astra Partners Ltd


Eagley Plastics Limited


Hibbert Homes Limited


The Potter Group


Catax


Ryan Tax Services


DAM Group UK Limited


Bentley Motors


Williamson Croft Accountants


Briggs Automotive Company (BAC) Limited


Murali Goluguri and James Torkington (First 2 Group Limited)


Engaging Works Group Limited


Clear Care Solutions Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised the shareholders of Catax Solutions Limited on a sale to Ryan, a leading global tax services and software provider.
  • Advised the shareholders of Astley Signs Limited on their sale to Mindelon AB.
  • Advised the shareholders of Swift-Cut Automation Limited on their sale to an American-Swedish industrial company.

Woodcocks Haworth & Nuttall (WHN)

The corporate and commercial team at Woodcocks Haworth & Nuttall (WHN) works predominantly with family and owner managed businesses, as well as a number of SMEs. The practice has particular experience in relation to share sales and acquisitions, shareholder and partnership agreements. The department is headed by Paul Matthews, a 'knowledgeable and down-to-earth' lawyer who specialises in management buyouts and joint ventures.

Practice head(s):

Paul Matthews


Testimonials

‘Found the team to be very helpful, quick to get back to me and very clear in the advice and services they could offer. Always easy to contact them, both on phone and on email, and always receive a quick and helpful response.’

‘Made to feel that the problems were understood and important. They were able to customise the advice to me, and help in matters where I had no prior experience.’

‘Having recently sold my business, I encountered many issues outside my knowledge base and experience, but all the team at WHN Solicitors pooled their knowledge and provided excellent advice, support and protection from compromising situations with the buyer. I was very impressed with their knowledge, but also the caring approach taken when making recommendations and giving advice.’

Key clients

Almar Services (UK) Limited


ABM Trade (UK) Limited


Peter Caudell


John Middleton & Julie Shepherd


Graham Smith


Professional Surveillance Management (PSM) Limited


AMS Accountants Group Ltd


S & S Steelstock Limited


Edu-Lettings (UK) Limited


NBCK Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised ABM Trade (UK) Limited in relation to its acquisition of the entire issued share capital of a limited company and the acquisition of an associated limited liability partnership.
  • Acted for Almar Services (UK) Limited in relation to sale of entire issued share capital of a subsidiary company.
  • Acted for AMS Accountants Group Ltd in relation to numerous acquisitions, including a 25% shareholding in Signature Tax Ltd.