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

Aaron & Partners LLP

At Aaron & Partners LLP, practice head Stuart Scott-Goldstone continues to develop the firm’s expertise in the technology, renewable energy and care sectors; an ever greater base of notable clients is instructing the firm to advise on corporate and commercial issues in these fields. The group also maintains its reputation for handling complex transactions involving owner-managed businesses across the North West and around the country. On the international front, mandates involving US companies are becoming an increasing area of focus. Jamie Hawley stands out as a key contact for banks and financial institutions. Jennifer Harrison is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Stuart Scott-Goldstone

Other key lawyers:

Jamie Hawley; Jennifer Harrison

Testimonials

‘Practical straightforward advice and support. A no-nonsense approach to getting the job done without getting bogged down in the fog of a transaction.’

‘Jamie Hawley was diligent, insightful and efficient throughout the process.’

‘The team is quick to respond, extremely proactive and gives clear, concise and commercial advice. Billing is efficient, but never feels like you are being unreasonably chased. We have been very happy with the exceptional level of service we’ve received.’

‘Jamie Hawley is our key point of contact. He will always make himself available for discussions, assist with managing our relationship with other departments within Aaron & Partners and has developed a detailed understanding of our company and industry way beyond that of any other legal firm we have worked with.’

Key clients

Sicut Enterprises Ltd

KNP Logistics Group Limited (formerly named Knights of Old Group Ltd)

Special Needs Group Limited

UK Caravans Direct Ltd

Thermographic Measurements Ltd (TMC Hallcrest)

Sanctus London Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised the shareholders of Technik Ground Solutions and Sonic Drilling & Piling Planthire on the sale of these two co-owned companies, which operate in the construction sector across the UK, to RSK Group.
  • Advised UK Caravans Direct on its acquisition of the entire issued share capital of Lawnworth and Brow-y-Wendon Static Caravan Park.
  • Advised the shareholders of Arena Instrumentation on the sale of the entire issued share capital of the business to Ellab (UK), as well as assisting with their investment into the buyer’s holding company, Kelvin Holdco, a company registered in Denmark.

Forbes Solicitors

Forbes Solicitors is known for its concerted presence in Lancashire and its ability to assist clients with deals of all sizes, nature and complexities. Pauline Rigby heads up the corporate offering and acts as a key link to the employment and commercial property departments, frequently working on matters at the intersection of these areas. Also on the corporate side, David Filmer is noted for his development of referrer relationships specifically within the Preston and Fylde Coast region. For commercial work, John Pickervance, who also leads the firm’s manufacturing and engineering department, has been instrumental in expanding the team’s expertise in these sectors and is the name to note.

Practice head(s):

Pauline Rigby; John Pickervance

Other key lawyers:

David Filmer; Rebecca McCann

Testimonials

‘The team is commercial and pragmatic in its approach to assignments.’

‘Approachable with a good level of common sense when dealing with matters.’

‘Forbes has been fantastic for our business purchase and subsequent sales.’

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/SEP Construction Services Limited/SEP Research & Development Limited

Bright Blue Foods Limited

Brookhouse Aerospace Limited

Sundown Solutions Limited

Mark Hallam, Stuart Forrest and Angus MacSween

BTGM Group Limited

Adrian Cresswell

Ataraxia Broking Group

4 Seasons Beer Tent Co Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising the sellers on the disposal of their shares in Cloud Commerce Group to WPP 2005, a division of the global brand Wunderman Thompson Commerce and Technology, for £41m.
  • Advising the BTGM Group on the management buyout of DL M&E Holdings.
  • Assisting Osan, trading as the Sock Shop, with the negotiation of a concession agreement with high street store Next, providing the client with a concession in its blue chip London Oxford Road store.

Gorvins Solicitors

The team at Gorvins Solicitors brings significant transactional expertise to national and regional clients ranging from public and private companies to owner-managed businesses and corporate funders. The firm has developed a reputation for excellence in several core sectors, namely media and publishing, market research, construction, and healthcare. Andrew Curwen heads up the practice; his highly regarded team includes Christian Mancier – who is noted for his work with family businesses – and consultant Paul Lupton – who focuses on advising SMEs. Senior associate Gemma Lingard is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Curwen; Christian Mancier

Other key lawyers:

Paul Lupton; Gemma Lingard

Testimonials

‘Prompt to reply and offer attention to detail. Very thorough in all aspects.’

‘Gemma Lingard – very efficient and friendly manner, most understanding and capable of grasping the situation of the clients. We felt confident and happy with the advice she provided.’

Key clients

Valour Finance Group Plc

Avonside Group Services Limited

Astute Private Wealth Limited

Williams Motor Group

Mondiale Publishing Limited

CGA Strategy Limited

Alan Howard (Stockport) Limited

Richer Sounds Plc

Rowlinson Group Limited

e-Foods Limited

Tandom Metallurgical Group Limited

John Munroe Group Limited

GPC Computer Software Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising the shareholders of CPL Technology Group, which includes Mondiale Hospitality Holdings and 4 others, on the sale of their shares to the Access Group.
  • Advising Polytech International on the sale of the entire issued share capital of Polytech Liquid Polymers – trading as MRI Polytech – to Plixxent group, a German-based PU products manufacturer.
  • Advising the founder shareholders on the sale of the entire issued share capital of Aeroco Holdings to an MBO team, funded by Frontier Development Capital.

Myerson Solicitors LLP

Myerson Solicitors LLP expertly assists a core client roster of owner-managed businesses and SMEs with high-value M&A transactions, challenging tax matters, and supply chain issues arising as a result of Brexit. The firm is also able to leverage its inter-departmental strength to provide advice on mandates at the intersection of corporate work with IT, IP, property and private wealth. Practice head Mohammed Akeel Latif is supported by a deep and growing bench of seasoned practitioners, including Andrew Brown and new arrival Chris Moss – who brings particular expertise in the financial services sector as well as experience leading the commercial team at JMW Solicitors LLP to the table. At senior associate level, Terry Moore and Richard Meehan – who joined from DWF in February 2022 – are recommended.

Practice head(s):

Mohammed Akeel Latif

Other key lawyers:

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

Testimonials

‘Myerson Solicitors offer a personal, professional, transparent service. Based on my previous dealings with other firms of solicitors, I would highly recommend their offices for personal or commercial services.’

‘Very knowledgeable and the constant contact and keeping you informed sets them above their competition.’

‘This firm covers all my legal requirements with outstanding efficiency and expertise at a reasonable cost.’

‘Mohammed Akeel Latif is the best corporate lawyer I have come across, his knowledge coupled with his work ethic make for a strong combination which instils confidence. He’s always available to me, which I value highly.’

‘Myerson Solicitors LLP have a unique ability amongst law firms to not only advise on specific legal aspects, specifically commercial transactions, but to introduce legal and commercial concepts that allow for all parties to the transaction to reach mutually agreeable finality, yet still satisfy their own client’s specific requirements.’

‘Terry Moore provided a level of expertise unsurpassed and also exhibited exceptional levels of clarity that would be easily understood by all parties.’

‘Myerson’s are a big firm without being a big firm. Still have that personal touch, but with extensive knowledge of almost all sectors. My go-to firm for most things now.’

‘From our first introduction we have always and without fail had direct access to the partners whether during or outside of office hours. Alongside their undoubted knowledge in a huge range of legal areas the ease of contact has been a major part in our decision to stay loyal to them.’

Key clients

Covid 19 Testing Services

European and Subsidiary Companies

Vehicle Hire Company

Prometheus Complex Care Ltd

Safe Hands Plans Limited

MC InSites NV

Work highlights

    Napthens LLP

    A notable roster of large corporates, owner managers and institutional clients instruct the highly specialised team at Napthens LLP. Keith Melling, who has particular expertise in the healthcare, motor retail, transport, manufacturing and financial services sectors, heads up the corporate offering with ‘steely confidence‘. In addition to handling a substantial transactional caseload, the wider corporate department also fields a dedicated insolvency sub-group. Jon Esner oversees the commercial side of the practice and brings a wealth of experience in compliance and regulatory issues to his role. Other key names include seasoned consultant Gareth McIntegart and legal director David Carr.

    Practice head(s):

    Keith Melling; Jon Esner

    Other key lawyers:

    Gareth McIntegart; David Carr; Rachel Atherton; Richard Robinson; Jordan Withers

    Testimonials

    ‘Keith Melling was exceptional. I am not sure the deal would have completed when it did without his oversight. His legal knowledge was first rate, but what really added value was his commercial approach to identifying the points that were most significant to the other side and therefore which battles were worth fighting.’

    ‘I believe what sets them apart is the total commitment to the job in hand. Quick responses to urgent enquiries even late at night or on the weekend – goes beyond traditional service standards. Teams/partners in other parts of the business were integrated into the project seamlessly with the minimum of fuss.’

    ‘A great approachable team that spends appropriate amounts of time reviewing what is needed to be reviewed and are able to always come within budget.’

    Key clients

    Applied Nutrition

    Maven Capital

    Joloda Hydraroll

    Flavour Warehouse

    Work highlights

      SAS Daniels LLP

      At SAS Daniels LLP, experienced transactional lawyer Jeremy Orrell heads up the corporate offering, while Kaye Whitby takes the lead on commercial work. The firm is particularly focused on serving SMEs in the Cheshire region and is lauded by clients for its partner-led approach. Andy Booth has been instrumental in developing the group’s reputation for excellence in the music industry; he is regularly instructed by leading artists and bands from the Manchester area. Paul Tyrer completes the roster of recommended practitioners.

      Practice head(s):

      Jeremy Orrell

      Other key lawyers:

      Kaye Whitby; Andy Booth; Paul Tyrer

      Testimonials

      ‘We found them very approachable, they lead us through the sales process from start to finish and explained what we needed to do, and what they would do for us, and why in a way we understood. From the way the business sale went through I would say we felt SAS were far more “on the case” than the buyer’s solicitors. I have recommended them to business associates and  would use them again without hesitation.’

      ‘We were informed at an early stage that if anybody became unavailable, (due to Covid mainly) that because multiple people were involved we would get the service we were expecting without delay. We did.’

      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

      Premier Care Limited

      Rowlinson Knitwear Limited

      Work highlights

        Brabners LLP

        At Brabners LLP, Richard Hough brings his commercial and intellectual property expertise to contract negotiation matters in addition to handling franchising, agency, distribution and data protection issues. Nicola Whittle oversees the corporate side of the practice. The firm specialises in assisting mid-market clients, including SMEs, start-ups and family businesses. Associate Mairead Platt regularly advises on investment and funding matters as well as on employee ownership trust disposals.

        Practice head(s):

        Nicola Whittle; Richard Hough

        Other key lawyers:

        Mairead Platt

        Key clients

        Epower Trucks Group Limited

        Pradeep Rawal & Anjla Rawal

        SEI Group Limited

        Sysco Technical Solutions Group Limited

        Domscan (Holdings) Limited

        ProAct International Ltd

        Football Ventures (Whites) Ltd

        Work highlights

        • Advising SEI Group on the purchase of the entire issued share capital of Security and Electrical Installations.
        • Assisting Domascan with the share sale of J J O’Grady, a groundworks and construction company, to Fox Brothers.
        • Advising ProAct on a number of commercial transactions, involving a variety of third party customers.

        Butcher & Barlow LLP

        The Butcher & Barlow LLP team is primarily split across the Bury, Gadbrook Park and Bramhall offices. From this extensive regional base, the group is able to advise local clients from a range of industries. The firm has continued to develop its reputation for M&A work and has also been receiving increasingly frequent instructions relating to company restructuring and refinancing in the aftermath of the pandemic. The group is also noted for its extensive work around employee share incentive schemes. Justin Kelly heads up the practice.

        Practice head(s):

        Justin Kelly

        Other key lawyers:

        Jonathan Aldersley

        Testimonials

        ‘Butcher & Barlow have a very welcoming and efficient team at Gadbrook Park. Combined with this attribute they have a knowledgeable and understanding staff, both in terms of solicitors and legal secretaries. The firm’s billing is clear and concise.’

        ‘Our main contact is with Jonathan Aldersley, who is highly efficient, knowledgeable and has a very considerable understanding of our needs and requirements. This makes him an outstanding person and solicitor. His work ethics are exceptional, with the time he puts in going way beyond the normal working day.’

        ‘I have an excellent relationship with Justin Kelly who stands out due to his in-depth knowledge of the law, particularly in employment issues and ability to communicate and explain the law in practical terms. Butcher and Barlow’s overall professionalism is a hallmark of this practice.’

        ‘Partners, such as Jonathan Aldersley, are very approachable and possess the ability to translate complicated legal nuances into everyday examples that we, as lay people, can understand. Jonathan always responds to requests to get in touch and has been known to address our urgent issues, even whilst he has been on his annual leave.’

        ‘I have worked with Justin Kelly and Jonathan Aldersley on numerous projects and found them both to be very approachable and accessible should I need to seek advice or query contract terms. They also have a desire to keep projects moving along and swiftly dealing with roadblocks which have the potential to stall things.’

        ‘Communication, timeliness, value for money and in particular thoroughness are second to none.’

        ‘The support of Jonathan Aldersley continues to be an invaluable asset to my companies and his proactiveness, calm demeanour, opinions and expertise in managing often fairly complex M&A projects is highly appreciated. Justin Kelly is also worthy of recognition in particular for the commercial judgement applied to employment matters and the negotiations he undertook.’

        ‘Butcher & Barlow listen and understand quickly the nuance of our business and issues faced. They deliver a highly professional service.’

        Key clients

        Joseph Holt Brewery

        Higham and Higham

        Glashen Services

        Aeroco Group Limited

        AD Aerospace

        Depledge Strategic Wealth Management

        Sanders Fisher Ltd

        Victor OId Trafford Ltd

        Robert Oliver Wealth Recruitment

        Olympian Sheds Ltd

        Breathe Technologies Ltd

        Law Distribution

        Demeva Refrigeration Ltd

        Fords of Winsford

        Olympus International Limited

        P & H Evans Ltd

        ABU (Cheshire) Ltd

        London Stone Paving Ltd

        ABC Digital

        Tradekart

        Ashbank Property

        Horsfield-Smith

        Pemberton Business Park Ltd

        PLT Properties Ltd

        Work highlights

        • Advised on the investment agreement and ambassador agreement for a high-value cross-border crypto currency investment.
        • Assisted with a high-value management buyout in the aerospace sector.
        • Advised on a substantial supply contract involving a US company.

        DTM Legal LLP

        From its base in Chester, the team at DTM Legal LLP provides tailored corporate and commercial advice to a breadth of SMEs in the Cheshire and North Wales area. The group’s focus on such clients ensures that practitioners are experienced in assisting with issues arising at every stage of development, from start-up to sale, third party investment or owner exit. The firm has recently been cementing its expertise in share schemes and other employee incentives, and is also seeing rising levels of instruction from funding organisations and private equity houses. Edward Barnes and Alison Brennan are the key names to note.

        Practice head(s):

        Edward Barnes

        Other key lawyers:

        Alison Brennan

        Testimonials

        ‘Really solid, understandable and pragmatic advice.’

        ‘Alison Brennan – very approachable, always meets deadlines and gives very reasonable and realistic advice.’

        Key clients

        Village Bakery Group

        Marine Specialised Technology Limited

        Dee 106.3 Limited

        Travcorp Group

        Rotex Europe Limited/Hillenbrand Inc

        Holiday Gems Limited

        Angel Solutions Limited

        Clwydian Group Limited

        Clogau Gold of Wales Limited

        D A Roberts Fuels Limited

        Centegra Limited

        Ellison Europe Limited

        Even Marketing Solutions Limited/EMS Healthcare

        Evolution Costs Limited

        Evoke Creative Limited

        The Ice Cream Farm Ltd Cheshire Farm Ice Cream Ltd

        Callitech Limited (Moneypenny)

        The Cygnet Group of Companies

        Typhoo Limited

        Codex Integrity Limited

        Tapestry (Partners) Limited

        Calder Group Limited and Calder Industrial Materials Limited

        Boardlink Group Limited

        Lewis Reed (WAV) Limited

        Charles Own & Company (COMFG Limited)

        Pointogic Holdings BV

        Yimba Ltd

        Peaty’s Ltd

        RSK Orbital

        Swishfund Ltd

        Bikmo Limited

        Williams Financial Planning

        DriveWorks Limited

        Morris & Co (2011) Limited

        Kate McIver Skin Limited

        Aviagen Turkeys Limited and Hockenhull Turkeys Limited

        Catalyst Interiors Limited

        Exsellence Limited

        Smylie Limited

        Spun Gold TV Limited

        Staingard Limited

        Barlows (UK) Limited

        Swishfund

        Aquilium Travel Limited

        Hi-Mark Automotive Ltd

        Burek Bow Limited

        Dabber Cat Property Limited

        Foundation Piling Limited

        NetWorld Sports Limited

        Prima Business Control Software Limited

        Whole House Ventilation Services Limited

        Ortus UK Limited

        Magno Limited

        T&L Leasing Limited

        Jennings Building & Civil Engineering Limited

        Warmfront Group

        Work highlights

        • Advising Tapestry Holdings, certain group companies and their various international shareholders on the multi-million pound sale of the entire issued share capital of the Tapestry Group to US buyer, Screen Engine/ASI.
        • Assisting the company’s owners and management with the sale of the entire issued share capital of the Pines Care Home, a company which owns and operates a number of care homes in Wales.
        • Advising the shareholders on their multi-million pound sale of the entire issued share capital of the Urban Planters franchisee company, Paul Lomax, to The Palfreymans, and assisting with a related buy back of shares in the master franchisor, Urban Planters Franchise.

        Farleys Solicitors LLP

        With ‘outstandingly talented‘ practitioner Debbie King at its helm, the group at Farleys Solicitors LLP continues to focus on the Lancashire SME market. Advice on sales and purchases across a wide range of sectors has typically formed the cornerstone of the practice. Recently, the team has also been assisting with an increasing number of complex corporate restructurings and de-mergers. Richard Bell provides a key link to the healthcare field and brings significant knowledge of the issues affecting independent businesses within the optics industry to the department.

        Practice head(s):

        Debbie King

        Other key lawyers:

        Richard Bell

        Testimonials

        ‘Farleys have a great team of people and whoever you speak to at the practice knows where the individual projects are up to. Even if the relevant person isn’t available, there is always someone on hand to talk to and take time to find out what you need and get someone to resolve the query.’

        ‘I have worked closely with Debbie King, she is efficient and thorough with her work, but she makes the experience very interesting and engaging. She is enthusiastic about her work and always delivers with a smile and positive attitude. She is always involving graduate trainees where she can and enjoys interacting with them to further their development. Working with her is a pleasure.’

        ‘Farleys Solicitors LLP have a complete team willing to help with any/all your legal requirements in a prompt manner.’

        ‘Debbie King’s attention to detail and delivery of a very professional service has been vital in ensuring the process has happened seamlessly.’

        ‘Great multi- disciplinary expertise.’

        ‘Debbie King is an outstandingly talented partner at the top of her game.’

        ‘The team are really pragmatic as well as being great lawyers and go out of their way to ensure clients’ needs are met.’

        ‘Debbie King is great. She is practical, pragmatic, knowledgeable and is a great person to have on your side of the table in a deal.’

        Work highlights

          HM3 Legal

          With a combined corporate experience exceeding 45 years, Anne Scheland and Robin Gill of HM3 Legal specialise in advising owner-managed businesses and SMEs on commercial contracts, IP and regulatory matters. Agency, distribution and manufacturing agreements, GDPR and Brexit-related issues are all areas of expertise. The group is particularly known for its work with vendor clients in the technology, healthcare, accountancy and storage sectors. The team also continues to receive frequent instructions from local authorities’ wholly owned subsidiaries seeking assistance with joint venture and outsourcing matters.

          Practice head(s):

          Anne Scheland

          Other key lawyers:

          Robin Gill

          Testimonials

          ‘A forward-thinking, proactive team that seamlessly works together across multiple specialist areas.’

          ‘They wholeheartedly have their clients’ interests first and foremost, not only wanting what is best for the client but are open to working with other professionals for their clients’ benefit and gain.’

          Key clients

          EA Technology Limited

          MCS Test Group Limited

          Big Fang Collective Limited (formerly Ghetto Golf)

          Roberts Manufacturing Limited

          Westgrove Support Services Limited

          National Westminster Bank plc

          Joule Group Limited

          Puro Ventures Limited t/a Speedy Freight

          Work highlights

          • Advised the shareholders of the MCS Test Group on its sale to Test Equity.

          Jolliffe & Co LLP

          From its base in Chester, the team at Jolliffe & Co LLP assists clients operating across the North West region, including a large number of major corporates from Liverpool and Manchester. The firm handles the full gamut of work, from day-to-day commercial matters to complex transactions, in sectors ranging from telecoms, leisure and healthcare to construction, chemicals, and waste management. Following the departure of Simon Williams in March 2021, the practice is now headed up by seasoned practitioner Mark Fergusson. Sharon Auld is a key contact for matters with a nexus to employment law.

          Practice head(s):

          Mark Fergusson

          Other key lawyers:

          Sharon Auld; Ryan Marr

          Testimonials

          ‘The team is young and dynamic and they have been able to discuss my needs in a way which I understand being a non-legal professional.’

          ‘I have specifically dealt with Ryan Marr who is approachable and has gone above and beyond to help me with my needs for the business.’

          ‘Very personable approach and driven to deliver a professional service. Extremely open and easy to engage.’

          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

          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.

          Work highlights

          • Advised Ninja Leisure UK Management and its group of companies on the terms of a multi-million pound investment by a leading investor in the leisure industry.
          • Advising Bagnall & Morris (Waste Services) on a range of corporate and commercial matters, including acquisitions.
          • Advised Challenger Mobile Communications on the negotiation of a key supply contract with a global telecoms company.

          Baines Wilson LLP

          The ‘knowledgeable and patient‘ team at Baines Wilson LLP is best known for its expertise in advising on corporate acquisitions and disposals; an area of particular strength for ‘exceptional‘ practice head Andrew Hill. The group has also seen a recent increase in instructions on the commercial side and is ever more regularly involved with the drafting and review of a diverse range of agreements. Jennifer Bell is noted for her expert knowledge of the transport sector.

          Practice head(s):

          Andrew Hill

          Other key lawyers:

          Kate Parker; Jennifer Bell

          Testimonials

          ‘The whole team is helpful, knowledgeable and patient, and genuinely interested in helping businesses develop and be the best they can be.’

          ‘I think the team is excellent, the practice has a very professional feel and yet manages to have a very warm and welcoming attitude.’

          ‘I think Andrew Hill stands out as an exceptional partner within the firm. He is excellent yet has a very humble outlook and nothing is ever too much trouble.’

          Key clients

          WCF Ltd

          Lloyd Motor Group

          Genesis Homes Group

          Handelsbanken

          Penrith Farmers’ & Kidd’s plc

          James Brearley & Sons Limited

          Hollyblue Healthcare Finance Limited

          Ecorenew Group

          A W Jenkinson

          Work highlights

            MLP Law LLP

            The substantial department at MLP Law LLP now comprises four experienced partners: commerical practice head Stephen Attree, corporate group lead Rachel Owen, equipment leasing and asset finance specialist Karen Delamore, and Max Tebbitts, who has been co-operating with the department since November 2021, as well as maintaining his activities as managing partner of Tebbitts Commercial Solicitors. The team is known particularly for its expertise in the healthcare, hospitality and catering, insurance and technology sectors.

            Practice head(s):

            Stephen Attree

            Other key lawyers:

            Rachel Owen; Karen Delamore; Max Tebbitts

            Testimonials

            ‘The firm is attuned to the corporate client and actually listens to what I want. I give them a brief and they listen properly and take my comments into account.’

            ‘The individuals are all excellent and work for you at all times and make you feel that you are important. They are always available or always call back promptly. I have used many solicitors in many corporate lives over the years and feel that they are one of the best allround commercial solicitors.’

            ‘City centre expertise, but in a regional firm which clients often like. Friendly and professional.’

            Key clients

            gtd Healthcare

            Sim Trava Group

            Work highlights

              Harrison Drury & Co

              Harrison Drury & Co‘s transactional expertise spans the software development, manufacturing, leisure, agricultural, and retail sectors. The ‘brilliant‘ team is well versed in advising on the full gamut of issues, from shareholder agreements to management buyouts. The Preston-based Nick Booth and the Lancaster-based Jack Stephenson are the key senior contacts. The arrival of Timothy Grover, whose wide-ranging practice covers both corporate and commercial mandates, from Vincents Solicitors in February 2021 has further expanded the firm’s geographical presence in Clitheroe.

              Practice head(s):

              Nick Booth; Jack Stephenson

              Other key lawyers:

              Kerry Southworth; Timothy Grover

              Testimonials

              ‘Jack Stephenson from Harrison Drury has always performed to a high standard and is very well respected within the commercial real estate sector in the north of England.’

              ‘Harrison Drury are a professional, efficient and brilliant practice. The perfect company in all respects. I never hesitate in recommending Harrison Drury as they have never given me cause to call them a second time to reiterate. We get weekly updates without needing to request them.’

              ‘Jack Stephenson goes over and above in his service, answers out of hours and even when on holiday. Even with sticky situations, Jack is always calm, cool and polite (and everyone knows how clients can get irate). Totally professional and helpful always.’

              ‘Timothy Grover has been excellent whilst helping us improve the quality of our client services and software support and licensing contracts. His clear and concise walk-throughs of each point, their meaning and relevance given our specific context, and their potential use-cases makes the process simple and stress-free.’

              ‘I felt the company offered a range of specialist services linked to my needs. Where appropriate they met with me face to face, but also kept in regular contact via video call and email. They spoke with patience and care in a language which was both informative, direct and clear, which built trust.’

              ‘Jack Stephenson stood out in the firm as his approach was timely, informative, supportive and clear. I wanted a sound understanding of liability and gain, a rationale on cost, and to be clear on the process and timeline. Jack delivered on this consistently and took my many questions with understanding and patience. His approachable manner gave me the confidence to ask him anything. I don’t think I’d have had the confidence to work with a typical solicitor, but Jack broke down those preconceived ideas very quickly.’

              ‘The team is extremely approachable and explain complicated issues in a user-friendly way for clients. There is a real depth of knowledge within the team. They have a local approach with the support of a much wider team. They have a no-fuss approach while ensuring all legislation is adhered to and all essential matters considered.’

              ‘I worked mostly with Timothy Glover who on a personal level was friendly, professional and honest, and on a professional level was measured in his advice with a clear eye on commercial realities.’

              Key clients

              Walker Fire (UK) Limited

              St Jude’s Residential UK Limited

              Ellisons Solicitors

              Montagu Events Limited, t/a XYZ

              11 Degrees Limited

              Dexine Leyland Rubber Technology Limited

              Work highlights

              • Advised the shareholders on the disposal of AUK Investment.
              • Assisted with the sale of Broughton Lubricants to a leading UK firm.
              • Advised a residential care home on a complex management buyout.

              Oglethorpe Sturton & Gillibrand

              For Lancaster-based Oglethorpe Sturton & Gillibrand, company and contract law is the core focus, with the team’s client base being firmly rooted in agricultural or commercial property. When handling transactional mandates, the group is able to leverage the strength of the wider firm to provide a seamless inter-departmental service. Jennifer Grabowski oversees the work, capably assisted by Carolina Donner.

              Practice head(s):

              Jennifer Grabowski

              Other key lawyers:

              Carolina Donner

              Testimonials

              ‘Great team, extremely knowledgeable solicitors in relation to commercial contracts and business restructuring following a management buyout.’

              ‘Jennifer Grabowski is extremely knowledgeable.’

              ‘Oglethorpe, Sturton & Gillibrand have access to a wide selection of specialised people whilst still maintaining the approachability and local knowledge that makes them a friendly and accessible firm. They are able to provide a wide range of personal and business services as well as agricultural services which is unique to the area.’

              Work highlights

                Woodcocks Haworth & Nuttall (WHN)

                Woodcocks Haworth & Nuttall (WHN)‘ team works predominantly with family businesses and SMEs in the Bury and wider North West area. Managers and directors instruct the firm on the full gamut of issues, as the group’s wide-ranging capabilities include assisting with both day-to-day commercial advice and significant corporate matters. Practice head Paul Matthews has particular experience with share and asset sales and acquisitions, shareholder and partnership agreements, and company reconstructions.

                Practice head(s):

                Paul Matthews

                Testimonials

                ‘Paul Matthews is a very capable and pragmatic lawyer and is my first choice when recommending a corporate lawyer to a client in the local market. His pricing is sensible and offers good value for money.’

                ‘Paul Matthews is extremely astute in understanding the commercial situation and finding the correct legal response to suit.’

                ‘Efficiency, service levels, and value for money compared to others.’

                Key clients

                AMS Accountants Group

                Will and Gemma Rawling

                Frimovel UK Limited

                Professional Surveillance Management (PSM) Limited

                Alan Sayle

                S & S Steelstock Limited

                Work highlights

                • Advised AMS Accountants Group on a buy-in by a key employee, including assisting with SPA, shareholders’ agreement and articles, as well as advising the buyer on the acquisition of a 75% share in a limited liability partnership and the acquisition of a 25% shareholding in Signature Tax (an associated company).
                • Advising Professional Surveillance Management and its shareholders on the purchase, by a newly formed holding company, of the entire issued share capital of a trading company in consideration of cash (for retiring shareholder) and consideration shares (for ongoing shareholders).
                • Advising Frimovel UK and its shareholders on the purchase, by a newly formed holding company, of the entire issued share capital of a trading company in consideration of cash and loan notes (for retiring shareholders), loan notes and consideration shares (for ongoing shareholders).