Firms To Watch: Corporate and commercial: Leeds, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire

Hill Dickinson LLP bolstered its corporate capabilities in the summer of 2021 with the hire of Sandip Khroud from Gateley Plc.
Tyr is continuing to build up its corporate and commercial offerings, with Chris Blantern and Luisa D’Alessandro the respective key contacts.

Corporate and commercial: Leeds, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire in Yorkshire And The Humber

Addleshaw Goddard

Addleshaw Goddard fields a ‘fantastic team at every level.’ The team regularly handles complex M&A, capital markets and private equity matters, in which it acts for a wide range of sellers, buyers, investors and funders. It has established strong bonds to companies from the technology, industrials, retail & consumer and financial services sectors. Richard Hunt leads the group, and has also considerable experience acting for founders and entrepreneurs in transactions. Adam Hastings has noteworthy expertise in IPOs and secondary fundraisings. Partner Carly Gulliver  and managing associate David Parker are also noted.

Practice head(s):

Richard Hunt

Other key lawyers:

Garry Elliott; Pete Wood; Carly Gulliver; David Parker

Testimonials

‘Richard Hunt led an excellent team who were able to deal with all aspects of a difficult and complex transaction, all of whom provided a very high level of service and were available and went above and beyond to push the transaction forward when needed.’

‘Fantastic team at every level. Clear communication, pragmatic advice, strong delivery to deadlines. I would gladly recommend them to anyone.’

‘Richard Hunt – absolutely first class. An exceptional lawyer in every area.’

‘Dave Parker provided fantastic support; he made a lot of stuff happen.’

Key clients

Infinity Works Limited

Symington’s

Sneak Energy Limited

Sheffield Forgemasters

6 Point 6 Limited

Team17 Group plc

Alpha Financial Markets Consulting plc

Flywheel Partners

Volpi Capital LLP

NorthEdge Capital

ANS Group Limited

Diageo

LDC

Work highlights

  • Advised the shareholders of Infinity Works on the sale to Accenture.
  • Advised Sheffield Forgemasters International Limited on its sale to The Ministry of Defence.
  • Advised the shareholders of NBS on the sale to Byggfakta Group UK Ltd.

DLA Piper

DLA Piper offers an ‘unrivalled level of access to partners’ combining ‘clear advice’ with ‘access to a wider internal network.’ Its broad practice especially supports clients from the (renewable) energy, hospitality and leisure, healthcare, retail and technology sectors, among others. It is particularly noted for its activity in M&A and private equity deals; team co-head Andrew Davies is a key contact here, while his fellow practice leader Matthew Duncombe deals with commercial matters such as supply chain arrangements, services and consultancy agreements. Stephen Atkinson and Victoria Rhodes are sought after by healthcare clients. John Gallon covers a broad range of transactions, and Amar Mann is well versed in the infrastructure and financial services space. Director Milena Falciano-Padron is another key contact in commercial matters.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Davies; Matthew Duncombe

Other key lawyers:

Stephen Atkinson; John Gallon; Milena Falciano-Padron; Amar Mann; Victoria Rhodes

Testimonials

‘Despite being a large firm DLA feel like that have a very personal approach. They have approached matters in a flexible and open way, willing to adjust their approach to our needs and resourcing.’

‘Victoria Rhodes has been great at being on hand when needed and making herself available at short notice. She has provided insightful guidance when navigating new territory.’

‘The unrivaled level of access to partners throughout our dealings means that not only do we get clear advice but also access to their wider internal network. This is the key strength – being able to cover different disciplines (IP, regulation, property etc), and across multiple geographies, via one point of contact.’

‘The quality of advice but also the clear instructions throughout. Problems are not just flagged but solutions are found to continue to move things forward. I would also highlight the quality of dealings with other parties whether that be on the buy side or sell side. The ability to forge positive relationships with numerous parties throughout a transaction ultimately led to a efficient and successful close.’

‘Quick to react, large scope of services.’

‘Amar Maan was extremely reactive at any time, understood all our requirements well and always acted in an accurate way.’

Key clients

Sun Capital

Paul International

HIG Capital

Domino’s

Bacardi

Vita Coco

Intercontinental Hotels Group

Tioopo Capital

thebigword Group

Triplepoint Capital

Severfield

Tetra Tech UK

Pelsis Limited

Adler & Allan Limited

Wescom Signal & Rescue

Hive Energy Limited

Brickability Group plc

Learning Technologies Group plc

Merlin Entertainment

Inspired Pet Nutrition

Work highlights

  • Advised Ramsay Healthcare on its acquisition of Elysium Group for £775m from BC Partners and the Elysium management team following a competitive auction process.
  • Advised Brickability Group plc on the acquisition of Taylor Maxwell Group, national supplier of facades and timber-products for consideration of up to £63m.

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP

The service provided by Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP's Leeds-team is considered to be 'transparent, proficient and meticulous.' The team is regularly instructed by private companies and regionally-based plcs as well as PE houses, often found in the food and drink sector and the retail, diversified industrials and financial services sectors. It can draw on its full service and international network offering. Practice leader Robin Skelton specialises in PE and M&A transactions. Amanda Partland has in particular cross-border expertise; principal Russell Naglis' 'attention to detail, work rate and the respect he gets from his colleagues is a credit to him.'

Practice head(s):

Robin Skelton

Other key lawyers:

Alison Starr; Amanda Partland; Russell Naglis

Testimonials

‘We have used Robin Skelton and Russell Naglis for many years. They understand our industry and have been exceptional when we have sold two of our businesses.’

‘Both Robin Skelton and Russell Naglis have been outstanding. Russell Naglis in particular negotiated so well. He is a young man who we trust implicitly. His attention to detail, work rate and the respect he gets from his colleagues is a credit too him.’

‘We have worked with several representatives of Eversheds Sutherland at all levels and welcomed their professional and friendly manner. Every step of each service has been transparent, proficient and meticulous.’

‘The individuals we have worked with at Eversheds Sutherland are not only professional and efficient, but also friendly and accommodating. They engage promptly, their communication is excellent and they have supported us through each legal process in a precise and steadfast manner.’

‘The team provides responsive and good value service.’

‘Alison Starr is always responsive and a real gem as a corporate advisor.’

Key clients

Inflexion Private Equity

Perwyn Advisors UK Limited

The shareholders of Medequip Group Limited

McCain Foods Limited

Parker Hannifin

Revolution Beauty Group plc

The shareholders of Tombola Limited

Fintel plc

Genuit Group

The shareholder of Pipes (UK) Holdings Limited

Work highlights

    Pinsent Masons LLP

    Clients note that Pinsent Masons LLP's 'knowledge of the business, priorities, and risk appetite makes for a painless acquisition process.' It assists clients from a variety of industries but in particular from the technology, retail, manufacturing, real estate and managed services sectors. The group covers significant M&A transactions and PE-investments as well as commercial matters such as outsourcings, franchise arrangements, and a variety of contracts. Andrew Black and legal director Lisa Harley are the practice heads and specialists in the respective areas. Andrew Kerr has cross-border deal expertise. Legal director Catherine Hemsworth is well versed in the real estate and healthcare sectors, while Michelle Kershaw also acts for joint ventures and start-ups.

    Practice head(s):

    Andrew Black; Lisa Harley

    Other key lawyers:

    Andrew Kerr; Catherine Hemsworth; Michelle Kershaw; Andrew Senior

    Testimonials

    ‘The corporate team in Leeds has supported us through all M&A transactions for a number of years and their knowledge of the business, priorities, and risk appetite makes for a painless acquisition process from due diligence through to completion and beyond.’

    ‘Andrew Kerr is accessible and has complete oversight of the work being undertaken by the team. He is ably supported by Catherine Hemsworth who is also strong in leading the deal teams and steering the other side in transactions.’

    ‘I have used Pinsent Masons’ Leeds office for a number of transactions for many years. It has reached the stage whereby the team know what we need without having to discuss it in too much detail! I think the overriding reason we have remained with Pinsent Masons for buy-side legal advisory is their commercial pragmatism.’

    Key clients

    Turner & Townsend

    Sirius Real Estate

    Condeco Group

    LSL Property Services plc

    Univar Solutions, Inc

    Kerv Group

    SwissportALD

    Halma plc

    Speedy Hire plc

    BOXT

    OASIS

    DCC plc

    Jola Cloud Solutions

    Amsric Holdings

    Imagination Technologies Group Limited

    Work highlights

    • Advised the partners of Turner & Townsend on the sale to CBRE of a 60% stake for approximately £960m.
    • Advised Sirius on its acquisition of Helix Investments Limited, the holding company of the BizSpace business, from Vardë Partners for an enterprise value of £380m and on the associated equity fundraising, a £135m placing on the London and Johannesburg stock exchanges.
    • Advised a subsidiary of NYSE-listed Univar Solutions Inc. on the sale of Distrupol, its European thermoplastics distribution division, to an affiliate of One Rock Capital Partners.

    Squire Patton Boggs

    According to clients, Squire Patton Boggs ‘leads the market in pre-deal proactivity and the tracking of opportunities.’ The team handles a range of private equity, capital markets and general M&A transactions, particularly in the mid-market. Its client roster includes private equity houses, management teams, large corporate clients and listed plcs on a national and international level. Hannah Kendrick is a food and drink expert; she leads the local practice together with Paul Jinks who covers the interface of commercial and IP. European managing partner Jonathon Jones and Paul Mann specialise in private equity matters. Jonathan Ross  assists clients with group reorganisations. The ‘unflappableHannah Crosland was recently promoted to the partnership.

    Practice head(s):

    Hannah Kendrick; Paul Jinks

    Other key lawyers:

    Jonathan Jones; Paul Mann; Jonathan Ross; David Milne; Hannah Crosland

    Testimonials

    ‘Paul Jinks gives practical commercial advice that anyone in the organization can understand. Agrees in advance the billing to avoid any delays and misunderstandings.’

    ‘We have tried a lot of different legal teams over the years but without a doubt, Squire Patton Boggs have been the best in terms of understanding of our requirements (quite specialist computer software contracts), speed of response and the relationship we have.’

    ‘The SPB team leads the market in pre-deal proactivity and the tracking of opportunities, making them a uniquely integral part of the deal process long before the execution phase.’

    ‘The proactive and tailored coverage we receive from Paul Mann and David Milne truly stands out. The level of individual engagement blends seamlessly into execution, making the SPB senior team feel like part of the investment deal team.’

    ‘The team were a tight-knit unit and were all excellent communicators. Despite several lawyers and paralegals working on projects they were all aligned at all times.’

    ‘Hannah Kendrick managed her team well and gave them the ability to move the project forwards.’

    ‘Hannah Crosland was excellent to work with and was careful, prompt and generally unflappable.’

    ‘Excellent team. Proactive and guiding in their approach. Lead partner Jonathan Ross was truly exceptional in managing several diverse stakeholders in a calm, patient and commercial manner, which has direct positive impacts. Highly recommend.’

    Key clients

    Applied Graphene Materials plc

    Vp plc

    Endless LLP

    ClearCourse Partnership AcquireCo Finance Limited

    ECI

    Northedge

    TransUnion Information Group Limited

    ScaleUp Capital

    Tilney Smith & Williamson Limited

    Clipper Logistics plc

    Work highlights

    • Acting for the shareholders in the sale of the entire issued share capital of Ligentia Group Holdings Limited including its subsidiaries in Australia, Hong Kong, China, Vietnam and Poland.
    • Acting for the Shareholders of Contis Group on the sale to Solarisbank AG.
    • Acting for the Shareholders of Progeny Holdings Limited on the sale of Progeny Group Limited to a newco backed by Further Global Capital Management.

    Walker Morris LLP

    Walker Morris LLP impresses with a strong track record in cross-border matters, as well as in transactions related to the private equity and ECM space. Clients are often active in the food and drink, manufacturing and technology sectors. The practice is overseen by John Hamer who handles public and private takeovers and acquisitions, and also includes Debbie Jackson; she is a key contact for a variety of funds. Richard Naish is well versed in advising public companies as well as food & drink sector clients. Daniel O’Gorman and Oliver Duke are noted for their experience in cross-border M&A and UK ECM transactions. Jo Stephenson has a focus on healthcare clients.

    Practice head(s):

    John Hamer

    Other key lawyers:

    Debbie Jackson; Richard Naish; Daniel O’Gorman; Oliver Duke; Jo Stephenson

    Testimonials

    ‘Top class, client-focused and partner led service. Diverse and well experienced team – can do practical attitude to supporting.’

    ‘The team has a practical can-do attitude, always get the job done, and work pragmatically and helpfully with other lawyers. Completely dependable on any project I’ve worked with them on.’

    ‘High quality support and advice matched by in depth understanding of the food manufacturing and retail sectors. All staff very responsive to the clients needs particularly at partner and director level. Given the quality of service, fee levels represent exceptional value in what can be a vastly overpriced sector.’

    ‘Richard Naish was lead partner on a recent transaction. His knowledge of the sector we operate in was outstanding and provided significant added value, over and above the high level of legal advice, which certainly helped get us to a successful completion of the transaction against a very tight deadline. His calm and thoughtful approach ensured that we were able to overcome the difficult issues which inevitably arise in any transaction.’

    ‘We worked in particular with Jo Stephenson. Great collaboration, smooth, fast, focusing in finding practical solutions, accommodating to the Client’s needs and particular requests, also fee related.’

    ‘Oliver Duke works tirelessly to ensure transactions are completed. Helped in pushing difficult issues to conclusion with vendors to keep momentum behind deals. He has been available at all times when deals have been conducted over several time zones to keep all parties fully up to date with progress of any aspects of work he is involved in.’

    ‘Very approachable and responsive. They have good industry insight and look for solutions to commercial problems.’

    ‘We have a long standing relationship with the team at Walker Morris and they understand our business, which is key to the delivery of recent major projects. They continue to be engaged and act as soon as they are contacted. Couldn’t ask for more at this point.’

    Key clients

    Endless LLP

    Audax Private Equity

    LDC

    Emplifi

    Proactis Holdings plc

    Renew Holdings plc

    Ajax I

    Lifco AB

    Eight Fifty Group – Management Team

    AML Rightsource

    Matiolli Woods plc

    Valeo Foods

    Stagwell, Inc.

    Swarco AG

    Stat Lab Medical Products

    Real Good Foods plc

    Novax Group AB

    Linden Capital

    Trevco Industries, Inc.

    Grupo Palacios

    MCH Private Equity

    BuildData AB

    TPC Wire & Cable

    Work highlights

    • Advised Acuant and its private equity owner Audax Private Equity on two deals, the acquisition of the UK headquartered Hello Soda group, and on the $736m sale of Acuant to AIM-quoted GB Group plc.
    • Advised Mattioli Woods plc on the £143m dual track acquisitions of both Maven Capital Partners and Ludlow Wealth Management and the associated ECM fundraising by way of a placing with institutional investors.
    • Advised Audax Private Equity on the UK aspects of various matters, such as the sale by Audax Private Equity of Corsearch to private equity buyer, Astorg and the sale by Audax Private Equity of Katena to Corza Medical.

    Clarion

    Clarion fields a sizeable team of dedicated corporate finance and commercial specialists. It has considerable experience in cross-border matters, as well as acting for technology and waste management clients. Practice co-head Richard Moran covers a wide range of M&A and private equity work. Fellow team leader Matthew Hattersley is well versed in commercial contracts, technology, data protection and supply chain compliance. Besides transactions, Jonathan Simms also deals with corporate governance matters. Legal director Tony Berry handles plc instructions, and also legal director Sarah Harrison is often sought after by owner-managed businesses.

    Practice head(s):

    Richard Moran; Matthew Hattersley

    Other key lawyers:

    Jonathan Simms; Tony Berry; Sarah Harrison

    Key clients

    Redcentric plc

    Frasers Group plc

    Regal Food Products Group plc

    Assisi Petcare

    Home IMA Group

    Carnaby Caravans

    Strata Homes

    Egis SA

    Interchange & Consort Hotels/Best Western

    Evergreen Capital LP

    InterSystems Corporation

    Vocalink Limited (Mastercard)

    Redcentric plc

    Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies UK Limited

    ASICS

    Card Factory plc

    Hemingways Marketing Services Limited

    Nichols plc

    Ligentia plc

    Highfield Awarding Body for Compliance Limited

    Work highlights

      Schofield Sweeney

      The members of Schofield Sweeney corporate team are appreciated for being ‘balanced and sensible in their approach and working hard to deliver.’ The group has close ties with regional owner managed and family businesses as well as national companies and HNWIs, which it supports in acquisitions, disposals, joint ventures, reconstructions/demergers and forms of equity and debt financing. Due to its close collaboration with the private client team, it can also cover tax and succession planning. David Strachan is well versed on this interface. Managing partner Martin Sweeney has experience in the financial services and automotive sectors. Other prominent practitioners are Steven MillwardKaren Crutchley and associate Lucy Holroyd.

      Other key lawyers:

      Lucy Holroyd

      Testimonials

      ‘Schofield Sweeney provide us with a great service, they are balanced and sensible in their approach and work hard to deliver. We use the firm on a regular basis for mid-tier corporate transactions, and recently concluded such a deal with their assistance.’

      ‘Martin Sweeney is a great lawyer, experienced, balanced, considerate – in essence you are getting a lawyer that could easily be with any of the major local firms but at a much more competitive rate, which is great for us as the client.’

      ‘Very attentive to detail. Care about the client and the result that we are aiming for. Proactive during deal construction making the process as eay as possible for the client.’

      ‘We work closely with the corporate team who are always on board with our requirements. Karen Crutchley is exceptional with her attitude, ability to work in compressed time scales and excellent technical capability. World class.’

      Key clients

      Cubico Group Limited

      Greenhous Group Limited

      H. Dawson Sons and Company (Wool) Limited

      DFDS Seaways Plc

      Catfoss Renewables Limited

      Business Growth Fund

      C4X Discovery Holdings Plc

      EMIS Group Plc

      Kettlewell Fuels Limited

      NDL Software Limited

      Millers Oils Limited

      Airedale Catering Equipment Group Limited

      Copenhagen Infrastructure Service Company Ltd

      Elevation Financial Group Limited

      AlphaPlus Consultancy Limited

      Hempel Special Metals Limited

      Marlborough Construction Services Limited

      Claritas Solutions Limited

      Optima Energy Group

      Switalskis Solicitors Limited

      JBA Consulting

      Brickhunter Limited

      Work highlights

      • Advised Greenhous Group Ltd on the sale of its reconditioning and storage business “Smart Fleet Solutions” to the online car retailer Cazoo Ltd.
      • Acted for Airedale Catering Equipment Group Ltd and its management team on a private equity investment by Rockpool Investments LP.
      • Advised the Steers family on the sale of their commercial vehicle rental group “Eurotrail” to TIP Trailer Services.

      Shoosmiths LLP

      Shoosmiths LLP which recently celebrated five years since opening in Leeds, regularly acts for national and international listed companies and funds from a variety of industries. Team head James Foster has broad expertise in matters such as acquisitions and divestments, venture capital, growth equity, private equity investments and joint ventures. Simon Procter provides 'a top level service and a fantastic technical ability.' Principal associate Natalie Hager and senior associate Sophie Davies are further key contacts.

      Practice head(s):

      James Foster

      Other key lawyers:

      Simon Procter; Natalie Hager; Sophie Davies

      Testimonials

      ‘The team is always available and on hand to provide excellent commercial advice. They always strive to support in any way they can and their technical ability combined with pragmatic approach really helps ensure any matter moves forward in the best way.’

      ‘On all of the matters Simon Proctor has led from the front, providing a top level service and a fantastic technical ability. He has always delivered, ensured the transactions progress on time and is always on the end of the phone is needed. Without his support we would not have had the success we have achieved in the last year.’

      ‘Strong team, highly skilled but delivered by a team with a diversity of backgrounds.’

      ‘James Foster – very entrepreneurial, relationship led lawyer but underpinned by strong legal acumen.’

      Key clients

      WM Morrison Supermarkets plc

      Azets Holdings Limited (a HG Capital investee company)

      Capiton AG (and multiple investee companies)

      Moorfield Private Equity Group

      Coppergreen Developments Limited

      Lloyds Development Capital (and multiple investee companies)

      Frasers Group plc (Sports Direct)

      Business Growth Fund (and multiple investee companies)

      Wild Life Group Limited

      Maven Capital Partners UK LLP (and multiple investee companies)

      YFM Private Equity Limited

      Nationwide Specialist Services Limited

      MegaGroup Trade Holding B.V. (Nimbus investee company)

      Jet Aire (DC) Limited

      Work highlights

      • Advised the shareholders of Coppergreen Developments Limited, a holiday park group backed by BGF, on the £91m disposal to Away Resorts Limited (backed by CVC Capital Partners Fund VIII).
      • Advised Moorfield Private Equity Group on the disposal of “The Forge”, a luxury Quayside housing tower, to Grainger plc for £57m.
      • Advised Berlin Private Equity House, Capiton AG (via its investee company Fydec Holding SA – Dec Group) on the acquisition of the “Extract Technologies” division of NYSE listed Wabash National Corporation.

      Blacks Solicitors LLP

      The team at Blacks Solicitors LLP is ‘able to connect the legal position with the realities of business life.‘ Larger regional clients approach the group in connection with sales, corporate restructurings and shareholder agreements; it is particularly well-versed in the healthcare and technology sectors. Nigel Hoyle also has expertise in acting for owner-managed businesses. He leads the practice together with Phil Parkinson who focuses on commercial law and data protection. Saby Sambhi often advises holiday park clients. Lewis Goodwin is another key member of the group.

      Practice head(s):

      Nigel Hoyle; Phil Parkinson

      Other key lawyers:

      Saby Sambhi; Alex Hall; Lewis Goodwin

      Testimonials

      ‘Excellent knowledgeable service and support.’

      ‘Blacks were responsive, balanced but passionate about my position helping me through a very complex legal position to get best outcome.’

      ‘Blacks go the extra mile to meet clients needs, big or small.’

      ‘The team’s strengths are a combination of the knowledge of everyone working in the team together with their personalities and approach to the work. They show a genuine interest in the matter to hand and are able to connect the legal position with the realities of business life. Pragmatic solutions are sought, rather than black and white legal arguments.’

      ‘A special mention to Alex Hall who went above and beyond in her assistance to get our deal over the line. In what ended up being very difficult protracted negotiations, Alex made herself available to us throughout and worked evenings and I am sure some weekends to assist us. She is a very valuable asset to the business and we cannot speak highly enough of her calm and friendly outgoing nature.’

      ‘Phil Parkinson: very impressed with the attentiveness and efficiency in my dealings.’

      ‘The team are very practical and down to earth – clients appreciate this and their honesty and approachability They always help find the solution you want and work well with other professionals. They are very knowledgeable and highly recommended.’

      ‘Nigel Hoyle has an extremely amiable personality that puts you at ease immediately. Add to that a genuine care for your personal situation and business, and a relentless desire to deliver on your behalf.’

      Key clients

      The shareholders of HKA Holdings Limited

      The shareholders of Red Embedded Holdings Limited

      The shareholder of Magna Colours Holdings Limited

      Production Park

      Leonidas Capital Limited

      Tovey Little Dental Centre Ltd/The Shareholders

      Northern Energy

      Harrogate Spring Water

      Southern Wind Group t/a Fazenda

      Catalyst IT Solutions

      Fullers Foods

      Great Rail Journeys

      Brilliant Stages

      HKA Financial Services

      ProAktive

      Perega (aka Thomasons Group)

      David Wood Baking

      Great Rail Journeys

      The Dalesman Group

      Big Change

      Backstage Academy (Training)

      David and Slavka Peatfield

      Work highlights

      • Advised the shareholder of Magna Colours Holdings Limited on the sale of the company to Avient Corporation.
      • Advised the shareholders of Red Embedded Holdings Limited in relation to the implementation of, and sale of the company to, an employee ownership trust.
      • Acted for Production Park Limited in securing a £12m loan from the Cultural Recovery Fund, implemented by the Secretary of State for the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and The Arts Council.

      Gordons LLP

      Gordons LLP‘s practice is ‘personable, very professional, incredibly pragmatic, and delivers no-nonsense legal advice.’ The team handles M&A transactions and commercial deals concerning outsourcing activities and launches. It is reputed for acting for retail, digital and technology clients, and the team is headed up by James Fawcett; he also covers private equity transactions. Jonathan Asquez has experience acting for entrepreneurs. Duncan Firman and Amy Pierechod are both 'incredibly knowledgeable in their areas of expertise.’

      Practice head(s):

      James Fawcett

      Other key lawyers:

      Duncan Firman; Jonathan Asquez; Amy Pierechod

      Testimonials

      ‘The team at Gordons is personable, very professional, incredibly pragmatic, and delivers no-nonsense legal advice. They genuinely go the extra mile for their clients – and that’s why we love them.’

      ‘Duncan Firman and Amy Pierechod are truly amazing lawyers and were true partners to us. They are honest, easy to work with, professional, and incredibly knowledgeable in their areas of expertise. While working with us, they worked around the clock to help get our deal done – morning, day and late at night. They’ve become the only lawyers I’d work with commercially.’

      ‘Attention to detail and availability to discuss issues whenever needed. Went the extra mile for us.’

      Key clients

      JCT600

      Enact/Endless

      Reed Boardall

      Christeyns UK

      Pavers

      Advanced Intelligent Logistics

      Wren Kitchens

      Freeman Grattan

      Ebuyer

      Oak Furniture Land

      AO.com

      Buy It Direct

      DM Keith

      ERM Europe

      JM Glendinning

      British Garden Centres

      Moss Bros

      BGF

      Severfield

      Work highlights

      • Advised the shareholders of social media planning group Content Calendr on the sale of the company to tech giant Adobe.
      • Advised Severfield PLC on its acquisition of DAM Structures for up to £32m.
      • Advised legal engineering firm SYKE on the investment by Bowmark Capital-backed Lawyers on Demand.

      Harrowells Solicitors

      Team head Susie Mortonson and Matthew Rowley at Harrowells Solicitors are noted for being 'knowledgeable, efficient and for giving brilliant sensible advice.' The group is often instructed by clients from the hi-tech manufacturing, distribution, hospitality, food production and processing industries. The workload includes matters such as share purchases and sales, company reorganisations. Mortonson combines corporate, commercial and employment know-how.

      Practice head(s):

      Susie Mortonson

      Other key lawyers:

      Matt Rowley

      Testimonials

      ‘All very experienced and practical in their approach and response.’

      ‘Susie Mortonson and Matthew Rowley handled the sale of my business with tenacity and professionalism in sometimes difficult negotiations.’

      ‘Harrowells Solicitors have been extremely friendly and helpful, and I was attended to incredibly quickly – nothing was too much trouble. Potential clients could feel rest assured knowing that they can the expect a very efficient and high level of service.’

      Work highlights

        Lupton Fawcett

        Lupton Fawcett has a noteworthy track record of acting for private equity backed clients, start-ups and family businesses. The team, led by M&A specialist Giles Clegg, is often involved in small- to lower mid-market deals, scale-ups and fundings of early stage and high growth companies, and share incentive schemes. It has particular know-how in the healthcare, technology and innovation sector. Jonathan Oxley  is a key contact for VC clients and share schemes, while Michele Phillips covers corporate finance matters.

        Practice head(s):

        Giles Clegg

        Other key lawyers:

        Dan McCormack; Jonathan Oxley; Michele Phillips

        Key clients

        Simomics Limited

        Vet-Ai Limited

        Aibody.Io Limited

        Northern Bloc Ice Cream limited

        Age Partnership Limited

        Betteryou Limited

        Renovotec Investments Limited

        Coverings Ltd

        Hartshorne Crossroads Group Limited

        American Promotional Events

        Work highlights

        • Acted for the holding company of The Mosaic Tile Company Limited in its acquisition of the Tile Giant retail business from Travis Perkins Plc.
        • Advised Simomics Limited in respect of a growth stage investment of up to £3.5m from two angel investors.
        • Acted for selling shareholders of GT Timber Limited, the holding company of Taylormade Timber Products and Kerr Timber Products.

        Mills & Reeve LLP

        Mills & Reeve LLP has established itself as a go-to firm for mid-cap transactions in the Leeds-market. The team is often involved in matters in the technology, waste, food, healthcare and insurance space, and also handles wealth management and real estate investment matters. Joanna Jowitt is regularly approached by financial sector clients. Practice head Paul Johnson knows acting for private and public companies, in particular private equity-backed clients, well. Martin Priestley is a key contact in sourcing, collaborative and strategic commercial projects. Principal associate Alex Kenworthy  often advises international clients looking to invest in the UK, and principal associate Vanessa Walton has experience in corporate structured transactions and joint ventures.

        Practice head(s):

        Paul Johnson

        Other key lawyers:

        Martin Priestley; Joanna Jowitt; Alex Kenworthy; Vanessa Walton

        Key clients

        Societe Mutuel D’Assurance du Batiment et des Travaux Publics (Groupe SMA)

        Orpalis SAS

        William Jackson Food Group

        Sodexo

        Refresco

        Cuisines Schmidt

        Archant

        Voyageurs du Monde

        Karndean International Limited

        G’s Group

        Kettle Foods

        The Enva Group

        Nolte Kitchens UK Limited

        CVC Capital Partners

        Westerleigh Group Holdings

        FGS Agri Group

        Steel City Interactive Limited

        VetParters Group

        Traditum PE

        Servoca plc

        Rema Tip Top

        Encon Group

        Kadans Science Partner UK Holding Limited

        Quanesco Bidco Limited

        Fiona McNae

        Work highlights

        • Advised VetPartners on the acquisition of Goddard Group.
        • Advised CVC Partners in connection with its acquisition of the entire issued share capital of the Away Resorts group from Freshstream LLP, and its acquisition of the entire issued share capital of the Aria Resorts group from management.
        • Advising on the MCA’s procurement for a replacement national radio network infrastructure for ship to shore communications with the UK’s Coastguard.

        3volution Limited

        3volution Limited is sought after by numerous SMEs, often in the tech, digital or gaming space. Its multi-disciplinary teams can cover matters relating to corporate, M&A, private equity, venture capital, restructuring and reorganisation, corporate governance and finance, often taking IP considerations into account. Practice head Jonathan Priestley has more than 30 years of experience in the field. Michael Cantwell acts for acquiring groups, MBO teams and sellers in the full life-cycle of corporate and venture capital transactions.

        Practice head(s):

        Jonathan Priestley

        Other key lawyers:

        Michael Cantwell; Amy Woodfine

        Testimonials

        ‘Very approachable team – they provide good corporate advice.’

        ‘The team specialises in their niche sectors. Their response times are rapid and their costing is fair and transparent.’

        ‘Michael Cantwell is not only an excellent M&A lawyer but also a pragmatist. So many lawyers create hurdles (sometimes just to show how clever they are !) whereas Mike Cantwell invariably seeks to clear hurdles in order to make the company sale/purchase arrangement as fast and cost efficient as possible – whilst still, of course, protecting the client interests.’

        Key clients

        Northern Monk Brewing Co. Ltd

        Dormole Limited

        Newsome Limited

        Drivespeed Group Limited

        Rabbit (Holdings) Limited

        Alton Cars Limited

        Work highlights

          DWF

          DWF in Leeds offers a 'good depth of knowledge and pragmatic advice' in corporate and commercial matters. Areas of expertise include management buyouts, private equity deals, as well as assisting clients in the lettings, wealth management, mortgage broking and financial services sectors on acquisitions. The growing team is led by Lester Wilson, as is Jon Marriott , who is a specialist in corporate finance. Wendy Harrison advises in particular hospitality and leisure sector clients. Another noted individual is Jonathan Procter who has 'detailed all-around knowledge and ability with a huge amount of experience.'

          Practice head(s):

          Lester Wilson

          Other key lawyers:

          Jon Marriott; Jonathan Procter; Wendy Harrison

          Testimonials

          ‘Knowledgeable and experienced.’

          ‘Lester Wilson is excellent.’

          ‘Good depth of knowledge and pragmatic advice.’

          ‘Excellent corporate lawyers with a commercial view.’

          ‘Jonathan Procter has detailed all around knowledge and ability with a huge amount of experience. With that knowledge/experience also comes a commercial opinion as to how to proceed, which is very valuable as a client.’

          Key clients

          Countrywide plc/Connells

          Ascot Lloyd/Bellpenny

          The Property Franchise Group plc

          Lambert Smith Hampton

          Allay Claims

          Nick Dunning Associates

          Lomond Capital

          Zinnwald Lithium plc

          Woodbois Limited

          Horizonte Minerals Plc

          Belluscura Plc

          Pivotal Growth

          MKC Wealth/Cabot Square Capital

          Boomin

          Crisp Thinking Group Limited

          SPARK Advisory Partners

          Emerald Publishing Group

          Braime Group Plc

          Superbike Factory Limited

          Plant Healthcare Plc

          Oxford Pharmascience

          Work highlights

            Freeths LLP

            Freeths LLP in Leeds covers the full life-cycle of corporate transactions. It demonstrates know-how in private acquisitions and disposals, particularly when owner managed businesses are injected with investment capital, such as private equity and debt capital. The members also handle corporate restructuring and reorganisations, MBOs and MBIs as well as a range of commercial matters. The practice's key contacts are Dahren Naidoo, corporate finance specialist Andy Francey, Jeremy Swift and director Frank Suttie.

            Practice head(s):

            Dahren Naidoo; Andy Francey; Jeremy Swift; Frank Suttie

            Other key lawyers:

            Fiona Woodhead

            Testimonials

            ‘Andy Francey provides exceptional service.’

            ‘The team is very responsive, practical and commercial. The attitude is to work constructively to get a deal done. We value the advice in particular because the Freeths corporate team find commercial solutions to problems as they arise.’

            ‘Dahren Naidoo is excellent. Dahren is responsive, practical and organised. I always trusted Dahren and his team to stay on top of matters and manage transactions from start to finish.’

            Key clients

            Linley and Simpson

            Definition Agency Limited

            Cloudcall Group Plc

            Elevation Recruitment

            Peratech Holdco Limited

            Growth Partner

            James Ian Parker/The Gym King (Holdings) Limited

            Twenty20 Midco 1 Limited

            The British Education Suppliers Association

            EdTech Evidence Group

            Rosemont Pharmaceuticals

            Answer Digital

            Answer Pay

            Preformed Windings

            North Yorkshire County Council

            Reading Borough Council

            Intelligent E-Learning

            Massolit Online Learning

            Work highlights

            • Advised Linley & Simpson on the LDC backed merger with Lomand Capital in a £100m transaction creating a new national lettings and estate agency group.
            • Acted for the seller in the sale of 40% of issued share capital of the Gym King Limited from Founder and key manager to JD Sports Fashion Plc.
            • Acted to enable the transfer of ownership of Elevation Holdings into an employee ownership.

            LCF Law

            LCF Law offers 'succinct legal advice coupled with commercial awareness.' The group is active for SMEs, owner managers and family businesses but also for healthcare sector clients such as pharmacies, dental practices, nursing and care homes, and GP practices. It often advises on sales to private equity and larger corporate acquirers, Employee Ownership Trusts and corporate restructuring. Susan Clark is the team head and main contact. Cathy Cook is 'brilliant at delivering the desired outcome.'

            Practice head(s):

            Susan Clark

            Other key lawyers:

            Cathy Cook; James Sarjantson; Brad Stewart

            Testimonials

            ‘Great practical lawyers who really understand their clients’ businesses.’

            ‘Susan Clark – fantastic adviser who knows her clients’ history and guides them through tricky negotiations brilliantly. Absolutely holds her own against lawyers in much bigger firms. There’s nothing she hasn’t seen in her practice and she can cut through to the important commercial points. Delightful to work with.’

            ‘Cathy Cook – superb communicator and brilliant at delivering the desired outcome. A really dedicated adviser who is also a fantastic person!’

            ‘LCF have a friendly, hands-on, commercial approach to corporation transactions and legal advice.’

            ‘The team is very knowledgeable, and always willing to research issues without committing to something they don’t understand. They appear to understand their client and accommodate specific requirements.’

            ‘Succinct legal advice coupled with commercial awareness.’

            ‘James Sarjantson – always accessible and always provides a candid approach to the problem at hand.’

            ‘The LCF corporate and commercial team is alway responsive and offers great advice. The level of communication is exceptional with rapid responses going above and beyond. I have even had a partner take a call from me whilst they were on vacation to ensure the momentum was maintained on an acquisition project.’

            Key clients

            The shareholders of Consolidated Timber Holdings Group Limited

            Davison Fencing Holdings Limited

            Kershaw & Kershaw Limited

            The shareholders of Apptopay Limtied

            Yorkshire Building Services Limited

            Vacform Group

            The Red Consultancy Ltd

            Inprotec Ltd

            Fox Agency

            Airzones LLc

            Salvation Army

            Work highlights

            • Advised the shareholders of Consolidated Timber Holdings Limited to Rubicon, a private equity buyer.
            • Advised Davison Fencing Limited on the establishment of an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) and the associated sale of 100% of the issued share capital of the Company to the EOT .
            • Advised the shareholders of ApptoPay Limited on the conditional sale subject to FCA approval to the Secure Trust Bank Plc such transaction to complete on receipt of change of control consent.

            Raworths

            Clients including PE-backed and privately owned groups, owner managers, HNWIs and entrepreneurs appreciate Raworths for providing 'succinct, practical and easily understandable advice in an efficient and timely manner.' It is mainly active in acquisitions and disposals, M&A, and equity investments as well as succession planning and wealth management. Jon Healey leads the practice and is also well versed in commercial agreements. Simon Morris specialises in advising SME clients, and senior associate Thaynara Charlesworth often deals with asset and share acquisitions/sales.

            Practice head(s):

            Jon Healey

            Other key lawyers:

            Simon Morris; Thaynara Charlesworth; Deborah Boylan

            Testimonials

            ‘The practice doesn’t waste time; it gets to the point and provides succinct, practical and easily understandable advice in an efficient and timely manner.’

            ‘Deborah Boylan is always easy to contact, comes back to you quickly and provides succinct, practical and easily understandable advice.’

            ‘The Raworths team are extremely accessible and responsive. Communication is frequent and always unprompted resulting in the fastest possible transactions. Billing is fair and completely transparent. The level of knowledge and skill meets all our requirements and has done for two decades now.’

            ‘Simon Morris handles our corporate and acquisition needs and is perfectly in tune with our industry and methods. His service and execution is faultless.’

            ‘Jon Healey delivers considered advice in a level headed manner.’

            ‘The put themselves on our shoes and offer answers with quickness at any time.’

            ‘Efficient, seamless processes overall – particularly strong team on commercial/M&A for small and medium-sized businesses.’

            ‘Thaynara Charlesworth has helped us with our complex corporate updates – managing to speak in laymans terms so we could understand the complexities – no easy feat. She has been very personable and professional.’

            Key clients

            Lomond Capital and Linley & Simpson Limited

            Celli Group (UK) Limited

            Printeos Group Holding SL

            Shareholders of Higgidy Limited

            Homes For Students Limited

            Work highlights

            • Advised Printeos Group Holding SL on its acquisition of a UK headquartered printing business.
            • Advised Celli Group (UK) on the framework agreement for warehousing, distribution and supply of goods and services to Diageo in Great Britain, Northern Ireland and various countries around the World.
            • Acted for Lomond Capital and Linley & Simpson on numerous acquisitions to support and implement the group’s private equity backed growth strategy across the UK.

            Ward Hadaway LLP

            Ward Hadaway LLP regularly assists individuals and entrepreneurs, SMEs, owner-managed businesses, plcs, equity funders and debt providers in their corporate and commercial endeavours. It has know-how in several industry sectors, such as healthcare, technology, energy and manufacturing. Adrian Ballam is a corporate key contact. Jonathan Pollard advises both public and private companies. Robert Thompson and Damien Charlton in Newcastle lead the practice.

            Practice head(s):

            Robert Thompson; Damien Charlton

            Other key lawyers:

            James Nightingale; Jonathan Pollard; Adrian Ballam; Nathan Bilton

            Testimonials

            ‘Responsive; open and transparent; no surprises – you get what was agreed at the price agreed.’

            ‘Nathan Bilton – extremely responsive, quickly understands the challenge from your perspective and delivers a solution. Nice guy too!’

            ‘Ward Hadaway provides an expert legal opinion but in a time where contact has clearly been challenging have made every effort to support and understand our business. The invaluable advice on ancillary work, means as an advisor they have developed a rounded view of the activities ongoing within our business, leaving them best placed to provide the advice we require.’

            ‘The key individuals we deal with at senior level is through James Nightingale. I find James hugely accessible and he provides professional advice alongside an approach which feels supportive and comfortable. In a challenging period for all industries, the firm has maintained a good contact throughout where possible, which leaves them best placed as people who understand our business.’

            ‘The partners and staff are focused on ensuring their clients receive great service. They always do what they say they will do and when they say it will be completed. I can’t compliment the team looking after us highly enough.’

            Key clients

            Allied London

            RFM Group

            Solingen Private Equity Limited

            CNG (Group) Limited

            BGF Investments LP

            Mercia Technologies

            SHG (Care Villages) Limited

            Evifile Limited

            Ansys, Inc.

            Epta Developments Corporation

            Suncrop Produce Limited

            Abracs Limited

            Peter Jackson & Sons Limited

            Quidvis Limited

            Radtac Limited

            BioresQ Skincare Limited

            Maynards Europe Limited

            Claymore Inc.

            BTL Group Limited

            Bidpath Limited

            Aprais Limited

            Grosvensor Integrated Services Holdings Limited

            Vodat Communications Group (VCG) Holding

            Citi Logik Limited

            Work highlights

            • Alongside KPMG, advised the shareholders (including Maven Capital Partners) on the sale of the entire issued share capital of Healthpoint Limited to Dayes BV.
            • Acted for the shareholders of Yorkshire-based leading textile manufacturer Peter Jackson & Sons Limited on the sale of the business to pan-European Paris-based private equity house Tioopo Capital.
            • Acted for the shareholders of Quidvis Limited on the majority sale of the business to Bradford-based Kings Secure Technologies Limited.

            Berwins

            Berwins‘ corporate team ‘performs efficiently and effectively.’ It has considerable experience and activity in the technology sector where it advises on matters such as transactions, investments and share structures. Paul Berwin leads the group; his caseload is often of international nature. Senior associate Oliver King joined from Langleys Solicitors prior to that firm's takeover by Knights plc.

            Practice head(s):

            Paul Berwin

            Other key lawyers:

            Oliver King

            Testimonials

            ‘Our 15 year relationship with Berwins is comprehensive on our commercial and personal requirements; this provides seamless understanding from one to the other.’

            ‘Approachable. Quick to understand the situation. Good communication skills. Thorough in work undertaken. Achievement of timescales. Clarity in costs.’

            ‘The team are very personable and responsive to queries. Work is performed efficiently and effectively. A friendly approachable group.’

            Key clients

            Prodigi Group Limited

            Kore Logic Limited

            Novo Onboard Retail Limited

            Spinberry OU

            Visual Communications

            Vet UK Holdings Limited

            Work highlights

            • Advised VetUK shareholders on selling shares to acquisitive vet chain VetPartners.
            • Acted for ACR IT Solutions Limited in the acquisition of shares in the client when it was acquired by BDR Holdings.
            • Provided legal support to Prodigi Group Limited as the company’s structure evolved.

            Bevan Brittan LLP

            Bevan Brittan LLP has notable expertise with regards to local authorities, the NHS and central government bodies, as well as a range of private sector businesses. The firm's practice spans M&A, joint ventures, funding and PE investments, as well as reorganisations, trade sales and secondary market activity. Chris Harper divides his time between Bristol and Leeds, and he leads the practice together with Christian Hunt; he also handles corporate governance matters.

            Practice head(s):

            Chris Harper; Christian Hunt

            Key clients

            Veezu Group

            Dowlis Group

            Ardent Limited

            SiRRAN Engineering Services

            31 Dover

            A Shade Greener Finance

            DEU Commercial

            Work highlights

            • Advised Sirran Engineering Services on its sale to US based NetNumber Inc.
            • Advised the management of the management buy-out of Dowlis Inspired Branding Group.

            McCormicks

            McCormicks is an established advisor to sport sector clients in particular, with clients such as Premier League, the EFL and Leeds United FC on its roster. Here, it advises on commercial contracts and sponsorship agreements. The practice also offers support to hospitality and leisure as well as private clients. The key contacts and practice heads are James Towler and senior partner Peter McCormick.

            Practice head(s):

            Peter McCormick; James Towler

            Other key lawyers:

            Emily Steed

            Testimonials

            ‘Excellent corporate advice, value for money, huge experience.’

            ‘Peter McCormick: fantastic client service and unrivalled sector expertise.’

            Key clients

            The Premier League

            The Premier League Charitable Fund

            (AQ) Limited

            Harrogate International Festivals Ltd

            Leeds United Football Club Limited

            Abacus Direct Limited

            Harrogate Town Football Club

            Harrogate Racquets Club Limited

            Universal Search Group Limited

            Redline Specialist Cars Limited

            Work highlights

            • Acting as retained advisors to the Premier League in respect of the operation of the Owners’ and Directors’ Test.
            • Advising Leeds United on a large number of commercial contracts, including a large number of sponsorship agreements.
            • Advising IT and telecoms business, AQ Limited, in relation to various commercial relationships and contracts with third party suppliers, customers and partners.

            Ramsdens Solicitors LLP

            Clients praise Ramsdens Solicitors LLP for being 'able to distil complicated areas of law into understandable concepts.' In particular, owner-managed businesses approach the team for support in a wide range of company law matters, including share sales and purchases, asset sales and purchases, corporate reconstructions, management buy-outs, and joint ventures. The Huddersfield-based group is led by engineering and logistics specialist Stephen Newman and transaction-focused Richard Dean. Senior associate Adam Cockroft is considered to be 'instrumental.'

            Practice head(s):

            Stephen Newman; Richard Dean

            Other key lawyers:

            Adam Cockroft

            Testimonials

            ‘Their ability to communicate at very regular intervals even when there is little progress to report. This ensures the client they are on top of the job.’

            ‘Adam Cockcroft was instrumental in ensuring I didn’t concede areas I probably would have without his expertise and input.’

            ‘Very client-friendly and responsive, able to distil complicated areas of law into understandable concepts. Particular expertise in family companies so great tact and diplomacy and ability to keep all informed and happy. Work well with other professionals – accountants etc. Very professional.’

            Key clients

            Saria Limited

            Expect Distribution

            Work highlights

            • Acted for NEIL RUSHWORTH and others in the sale of the trading operations of Expect Distribution to its management team.
            • Acted for Dennis Morgan and others in the sale of the issued share capital of Pyramid Display Materials Limited to Grimco Inc., and American supplier of signage and display materials with more than 65 branches across the United States.
            • Acted for Graham Tannant and others of the issued share capital of Advance Technical Services Limited to Indutrade UK Limited.