Known for its strength in international transactions, Birketts LLP‘s team of experts handles the full scope of matters relating to capital markets and private equity, in addition to employee incentives issues. The group is well-known for advising on corporate acquisitions, disposals and agreements, and has vast experience spanning the insurance, IT, financial services and motor sectors. M&A expert Adam Jones leads the team from Chelmsford, and is a key contact for private equity clients, with his broad workload consisting of reorganisations, demergers and corporate governance matters. Rafael Ruiz is sought out by private and institutional investors and corporates for support with both domestic and international M&A transactions, which are also Alex Forwood‘s primary areas of expertise. Heidi Bond stands out due to her specialism in the corporate aspects of employee ownership transactions. Caroline Nicholls left the firm in February 2024.
Corporate and commercial: Essex in South East
Birketts LLP
Practice head(s):
Adam Jones
Other key lawyers:
Rafael Ruiz; Heidi Bond; Alex Forwood
Testimonials
‘Although based in Essex, they provide an excellent, full service to clients in London. The virtual data room software works very well, keeps things simple and provides a seamless integration with the due diligence process.’
‘As a local firm they operate with the same professionalism and quality as a large central London firm.’
‘The team is approachable, responsive and in general very commercial.’
Key clients
OCS Group
Investec Bank plc
H H B Communications Limited
Excess Baggage Group
The Reddington Group
Hydro International Limited
Airtask Group
Granarolo SpA & Group
Commodity Centre Group
YFM Private Equity
M.W. Beer & Co. Limited
Autoprotect
Foresight Group
Ziegler UK
Lunar Ventures
Kope AI
Longacre Group
Power Adhesives
Media 10 Group
Sterling DCS Limited
XP Factory PLC
Work highlights
- Advised Eatron Technologies Ltd on its Series A2 investment round from global investors.
- Advised OCS Group on its acquisition of the Profile Security group of companies.
- Advised the shareholders of H H B Communications on its sale to AIM-listed Midwich Group.
Birkett Long LLP
Well-regarded for its expansive expertise in employee ownership trusts, Birkett Long LLP handles a broad caseload of sales, acquisitions and financing matters, shareholder and joint venture agreements. Often collaborating with the firm’s multidisciplinary environment and energy group, the team handles a growing number of mandates for energy infrastructure clients, with a strong focus on long-term contracts. Practice head Tim Field handles both domestic and cross-border M&A, and is recommended for his experience in the healthcare, insurance, and construction industries.
Practice head(s):
Tim Field
Other key lawyers:
David Wisbey; Thomas Emmett
Testimonials
‘In my experience, Birkett Long not only meets but exceeds expectations, providing not just legal services, but a true partnership that understands and addresses the unique challenges my business faces.’
‘David Wisbey has consistently demonstrated an exceptional level of dedication and skill. His deep legal knowledge is complemented by a proactive approach to problem-solving and a keen understanding of the intricacies of our industry/business.’
‘Got the sale of my business completed in record time. Had internal resources to help with all aspects of the sale who dropped in and out of the process when needed and helped keep momentum going.’
Key clients
DPSK Limited
Healthcare Europa Limited
Healthcare Homes Group Limited
Healthcare Homes (LSC) Limited
Healthcare Homes (Genesis) Limited
Kent Blaxill Property Holdings Limited
Navigator Terminals Ltd
North Tees Ltd
Seal Sands Ltd
Thames BV Ltd
Windmill Limited
Work highlights
- Advised the management team of BEW Electrical Distributors (Holdings) Limited on the acquisition of the entire issued share capital of BEW Electrical Distributors Limited.
- Advised the shareholders of DVR Ltd on the sale of the entire issued share capital of DVR Ltd for £12,000,000.
- Advised the management team on the management buyout of the entire issued share capital of Maze Logistic Solutions Holdings Ltd.
Ellisons Solicitors
Ellisons Solicitors is noted for its renewed focus on leveraged financing, subordinated debt, and balance sheet management matters. The group was bolstered by the arrival of Chelmsford-based Philip Slater, whose vast expertise spans acquisition and real estate finance, corporate lending, debt financing issues. Dividing his time between the Chelmsford and Colchester offices, practice head Paul Forsyth routinely assists clients with sales and acquisitions, group reorganisations, shareholder and partnership agreements, and commercial contracts. Forsyth is well supported by Abigail Williamson, who is adept at advising on share sales, management buyouts and employee ownership trusts.
Practice head(s):
Paul Forsyth
Other key lawyers:
Abigail Williamson; Philip Slater
Testimonials
‘I found them extremely professional and able to provide unique skills from across the company to help with any twists and turns that occur in the legal world. Ellison’s were outstanding and I will never use another legal firm. they have me as a customer for life. A legal company you can trust.’
‘Paul Forsyth worked with us under tight deadlines, picked the case up extremely quickly and was very thorough in his checks and feedback on how to progress.’
‘Ellisons are a fantastic, locally based practice that consistently punches above their weight both technically and in the commercially focused and practical nature of the advice that they provide. I regularly introduce the practice to clients of my own they have never let me down.’
Key clients
CB Heating Ltd
Work highlights
- Advised the exiting shareholders of CB Heating Ltd in connection with the sale of the company to EDF Energy.
- Advised shareholders on the sale of their shares in Pallet Plus Limited to national haulage provider Expect Distribution.
- Advised the exiting shareholders of Systematics International Limited in connection with the sale of the company to a US-based private equity firm.
Tees Law
Equipped to handle the full gamut of M&A, disposals, joint ventures and private equity transactions, Tees Law frequently assists clients with the negotiation and drafting of agreements concerning the supply of goods and services, IT, and IP licensing and franchising arrangements. Lucy Folley leads the practice, and is recommended for her broad knowledge of corporate transactions and internal reorganisations, while Claire Powell‘s varied caseload consists of reorganisations and M&A, in addition to directors’ duties and corporate governance related matters. Routinely acting for start-ups, SMEs, charities, and international companies, Baljeet Kaur is an expert in asset and share acquisitions and disposals, as well as joint venture and partnership agreements. Tracey Dickens joined the practice in October 2024.
Practice head(s):
Lucy Folley
Other key lawyers:
Baljeet Kaur; Claire Powell; Elizabeth de Cruz; Tracey Dickens
Testimonials
‘We used Baljeet Kaur and the team at Tees Law for the first time this year and I can honestly say they were the most helpful, speedy and friendly solicitors I have ever used. This was a major transaction for us and Bally put our mind at rest from the start.’
‘Constant swift communications is the name of the game here. Baljeet Kaur kept us informed every step of the way without being chased, which I have to say is a breath of fresh air for us. We wouldn’t hesitate to use them again.’
‘Friendly and genuinely seem to care about the people in our business and the transaction.’
‘The team at Tees is exceptional when it comes to corporate and commercial. They went above and beyond while trying to get the deal done. Their tenacity and understanding of our business were excellent, as well as their understanding of a commercial deal that was not always straightforward.’
‘Lucy Folley was a critical part of getting the deal done. Lucy’s understanding of our business was essential in getting the deal across the line. Without her efforts, I believe that it would not have gone through. I cannot recommend her enough!’
‘Lucy Folley and Baljeet Kaur are both very good and will also work very effectively together, covering for each other when needed. I very much appreciate their commercial attitude to issues that have arisen in transactions.’
‘One thing that made working with Tees unique was how easy the professionals are to talk to – this helped to build trust with our mutual client. Tees provides straightforward, jargon-free advice. They were on hand and made sure they kept in touch with the client regularly with updates and reassurance.’
‘Claire Powell and her team are very effective communicators, taking their time to explain matters of law and where and when commercial decisions have to be taken. They go the extra mile to keep a deal on track, always ensuring their full attention to the matter in hand.’
Key clients
Moralis Group Limited
Sellers of Compliance Labelling Solutions Limited
Seller of Companion Care (Chelmsford) Limited
Turners (Soham) Limited
Cheale Holdings Limited
Jack Richards & Son Limited
Support 4 Sight
Altitude Internet Digital Marketing Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Moralis Group Limited on the sale of GBN Services Limited to the Sortera Group.
- Advised the shareholders of Compliance Labelling Solutions Limited on their sale to the Asteria Group.
- Advised Turners (Soham) Limited on its acquisition of shares in Lynn Star Distribution & Logistics Limited.
Thompson Smith and Puxon
With vast experience in the construction and healthcare sector, Thompson Smith and Puxon's multifaceted practice is well-known for its strength in reorganisations and demergers, with a strong focus on issues surrounding distribution agreements, compliance, shareholder agreements, and terms of sale and purchase. Heading the Colchester-based team, Mary Anne Fedeyko is noted for her handling of cross-border mandates, while Nick Mayles is particularly adept at advising clients on the sale, acquisition and internal arrangement of dental practices. Caroline Nicholls joined the firm from Birketts LLP in February 2024, bolstering the group’s capabilities across the software, property, construction, energy and professional services segments.
Practice head(s):
Mary Anne Fedeyko
Other key lawyers:
Nick Mayles; Caroline Nicholls; Nicola Rout
Testimonials
‘Mary Anne Fedeyko took on our case in a positive and entirely professional manner. She had the ability to make us feel at ease and understand the difficult process we were going through.’
‘The biggest advantage of working with TSP is that whilst they are finely attuned to the legal issues that need to be considered, they never lose sight of the ultimate commercial objective that the client is aiming for.’
‘The team we are dealing with on commercial matters across a variety of matters has been a great asset to us and have supported us through good and difficult times. They have a robust depth and breadth of knowledge. They are also very responsive.’
‘They are very knowledgeable and experienced in their specialisms. They are able to challenge our thought process and highlight all pros and cons for us to reach the right decision. In particular Mary-Anne Fedeyko and Nick Mayles.’
‘A strong team ably led by Mary Anne Fedeyko. Prompt, efficient, and always available. Good communication between colleagues with a seamless approach to deals.’
‘The stand-out team leader, Mary Anne Fedeyko, takes the lead and ensures that any transaction is dealt with promptly and with full and clear explanation on what is being achieved and how best to get there.’
‘All my undertakings with the team at TSP have been thorough and prompt. They respond to emails in a timely fashion and engage well, making sure responses are clear and without jargon.’
‘Nicola Rout has been such a great person to have on our team. She has worked with us to ensure we have confidence in everything we are doing as a charity. Without Nicola, we wouldn’t be where we are as a charity!’
Work highlights
Aquabridge
Praised by clients for its ‘excellent personal service’, Aquabridge specialises in the sale and acquisitions of owner-managed businesses, and is noted for its broad capabilities in financing and corporate governance, in addition to the structuring of shareholdings. The team is jointly led by Keith Vincent and Simon Letts, who are both recommended for their extensive experience in share and business sales, management buyouts, and the establishment of employee ownership trusts. Vincent is also noted for his strong expertise in transport and logistics sector. The practice is well-supported by Osman Imtiaz, who is well-versed in M&A, corporate governance, and commercial contracting matters.
Practice head(s):
Keith Vincent; Simon Letts
Other key lawyers:
Osman Imtiaz
Testimonials
‘We worked with Aquabridge on a number of projects each year, mainly supporting our SME clients with share purchase agreements and management buyouts. They are always professional and like to meet our clients in person to explain the process in easy to understand terms.’
‘We work mainly with Keith Vincent and Simon Letts on the corporate and commercial work. They are friendly approachable and work hard to ensure our clients receive the best service.’
‘Aquabridge were recommended by our auditors to help us with the sale of our business. They were knowledgeable, professional and made the whole process painless. We always felt that our interests were being extremely well looked after.’
Key clients
Cameron Ventures Group Ltd
JL Knight Roadworks Ltd
Power Testing Ltd
Scendea Ltd
The Keswick Enterprises Group Ltd
Pexhurst Services Ltd
Edison House Group
HBS Electronics (Holdings) Ltd
Work highlights
- Advised HBS Electronics Group on the disposal of Didsbury Engineering to Lifco.
- Advised the sellers on their disposal of shares in a leading pharmaceuticals wholesale business.
Palmers
Palmers’ corporate and commercial group routinely collaborates with the firm’s employment and commercial litigation groups to assist clients with business acquisitions and sales, shareholder and partnership agreements, and issues concerning director’s duties. The team is jointly led by: Matthew Johnson, who routinely handles major corporate transactions, BJ Chong, who is a key name for banking and finance sector clients, and Luke Morgan, who leads the firm's employment team. Jonathan Hol joined the team in September 2023, handling a broad array of transactional matters alongside Johnson.
Practice head(s):
Luke Morgan; BJ Chong; Matthew Johnson
Other key lawyers:
Jonathan Hol
Testimonials
‘We used Palmers Solicitors on the advice of our accountants for the recent sale of our company. We found them to be very professional, punctual in getting back to us with our many queries and always felt that they were in our corner fighting for the best deal achievable.’
‘We worked with Matthew Johnson and Jonathan Hol, both of whom were timely, professional and sympathetic to our needs, throughout our protracted business sale.’
‘A very personal and responsive service made the whole process from onboarding through to delivering what was required refreshingly easy. They provided excellent practical advice and guidance throughout.’
Work highlights
- Advised clients on a circa £20 million sale of their shares in an event insurance company.
- Advised clients on a circa £5 million sale of their shares in a hydraulic hose fittings and couplings company.
- Advising clients on a group restructure, involving the insertion of a new holding company via a share-for-share exchange, alterations to the company’s constitution and concluding with a capital reduction demerger.
BTMK Solicitors
Praised for its ability to ‘adapt to any challenge and offer bespoke solutions‘, BTMK Solicitors is noted for its broad expertise across the pharmaceutical, sports, entertainment, and logistics sectors. The team is co-led by Ian Powell in Southend-on-Sea and Lee Emptage in Rayleigh.
Practice head(s):
Lee Emptage; Ian Powell
Testimonials
‘For us, what makes them unique is the way they can adapt to any challenge and offer bespoke solutions, they can listen to you when you are under pressure and then calmly discuss the options that are available.’
‘Lee Emptage was always available and always willing to explain matters within the agreements that we did not understand. They also understood the time zone differences involved and went above and beyond to work with all parties.’
‘Through very protracted negotiations BTMK assisted the sale of my business. Contracts were extremely key to this sale, BTMK’s advice was detailed and comprehensive.’
Paul Robinson Solicitors LLP
Paul Robinson Solicitors LLP's broad workload consists of M&A and corporate restructurings, in addition to matters involving commercial contracts, franchise agreements, and finance security documentation. The team is co-led by Fiona Colwell, who regularly advises clients on share and asset sale transactions, and shareholder and partnership agreements, and Mark Deans, who is noted for his strength in property-related transactions.
Practice head(s):
Mark Deans; Fiona Colwell
Other key lawyers:
Courtney Parry-Lansdowne
Testimonials
‘Friendly team that understood our requirements.’
‘Friendly personnel with knowledge of selling companies.’
Work highlights
- Advised on the sale of an IT support company for £2.5m.
- Advised on the acquisition of a company dealing with vehicle servicing and MOTs with a deal value of £2.3m.
- Advised on the sale of a nursing/care home with a deal value of £1m.
Pinney Talfourd LLP
Noted for its expertise in private owner-managed businesses, Pinney Talfourd LLP's practice is led by Julien Pritchard. The group is well-placed to advise on matters involving founder exits, succession transactions and group reorganisations. The group routinely collaborates with the firm's family, commercial property and employment practices.
Practice head(s):
Julien Pritchard
Testimonials
‘Pinney Talfourd acted on our behalf during an MBO. The main strength of the team was its ability to be agile and to react quickly to any changes during the process. Speed of response and excellent communication was essential due to particularly restrictive timescales.’
‘Interdepartmental collegiate attitudes provide efficient solutions, of particular note commercial property worked well with the legislation and corporate property department.’
‘Highly professional and experienced.’