The Wilkes Partnership

Wilkes is proud to announce that its Marketing Team has been named Team of the Year at the Midlands Marketing Awards 2025. The judges recognised the team’s focus on delivering measurable results, with campaigns that combined creativity and attention to detail. From digital engagement projects to multi-channel campaigns and internal communications, the team has consistently demonstrated its ability to deliver impact across the firm. Launched to celebrate excellence across the marketing industry, the Midlands Marketing Awards bring together organisations and professionals from a wide range of sectors. Winners are chosen by an independent judging panel, with this year’s ceremony taking place on 11 September 2025 in Birmingham. Commenting on the win, Maria Heckel, Head of Marketing & Business Development at Wilkes, said: “This award is a fantastic recognition of the team’s hard work, creativity, and dedication. Our focus has always been on delivering results that make a difference for the firm and our clients, and I’m proud to see the team’s achievements acknowledged in this way.” Ellie Holland, Managing Partner at Wilkes, added: “Our Marketing Team plays a crucial role in supporting the firm’s growth and reputation. Their ability to deliver impactful campaigns, while paying close attention to detail, sets them apart. We are delighted to see their efforts recognised with this award.” For further information, please contact: [email protected] -ENDS- About Wilkes Wilkes are one of the leading independent medium-sized UK law firms operating nationally and internationally from the Midlands region. The firm provides a wide range of specialist expertise aimed at our core clients – SME businesses, entrepreneurs, individuals, financiers, charities and public sector. With offices in central Birmingham, we pride ourselves on our partner-led service, backed up by almost 200 associates, assistant solicitors and support staff. We provide a partner-led service, both nationally and internationally through our international associations. Company name: Wilkes Company URL: https://www.wilkes.co.uk Connect with Wilkes: https://www.wilkes.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-wilkes-partnership/ https://www.instagram.com/wilkeslaw/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Wilkes-Solicitors

On 1st September 2025,  Wilkes welcomes five new trainee solicitors as part of its continued investment in the next generation of legal professionals. The trainees, Abdullah Naveed, Chloe Johnson, Ross Hill,  Ellie Vanner and Cassandra Hylton, will all begin their two-year training contracts with the firm. All of the trainees will be working in various departments within the firm where they will gain experience across a range of practice areas as part of Wilkes’ structured training programme, designed to give trainees the skills and confidence to progress their careers in law. Training Principal Mark Hodgson commented: “Our trainee solicitors are the future of the firm, and we are proud to welcome Abdullah, Chloe, Ellie, Ross and Cassandra this September. They bring fresh perspectives, determination, and a real enthusiasm for their chosen careers. Over the next two years, they’ll be supported by colleagues at every level, learning not only the technical side of the profession but also the values and standards that define Wilkes. It’s always rewarding to see how our trainees grow, and I have no doubt that they will all make a fantastic contribution to our clients and teams.” Wilkes, recognised in the Legal 500, provides a full-service offering to businesses and individuals. The firm prides itself on its inclusive culture, offering its trainees a supportive environment alongside opportunities to get involved in networking events, client relationships, and CSR initiatives. The firm has also confirmed that a further ten trainees will join Wilkes across 2026 and 2027, underlining its long-term commitment to developing new talent. Applications for the 2028 intake will open later this year, and aspiring solicitors who are motivated, collaborative, and aligned with Wilkes’ values are encouraged to visit the trainee recruitment page for more information.

Birmingham-based law firm Wilkes has advised on the successful multi-million pound sale of the entire issued share capital of Johnsons Cars Limited to AWR Holdings UK Limited, part of the UAE-based AWR Rostamani Group. As part of the wider transaction, Johnsons Cars Limited also completed the sale of its Toyota and Lexus dealerships to Beadles Medway Limited, a subsidiary of Group 1 Automotive Limited, and further strengthened its portfolio with the acquisition of the VW Bilston dealership from Greenhous Group Limited. At the time of the sale, Johnsons Cars Limited operated 53 dealerships across the UK, representing 15 brands including Volkswagen, Škoda, Ford, Hyundai, Jeep, Suzuki, Mazda, Honda, Cupra, Fiat, Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Seat, Volkswagen Commercial, Ford Commercial and Volkswagen Trade Parts Specialist. The deal marks the latest milestone in Wilkes’ long-standing relationship with Johnsons Cars, where the firm has supported the business with strategic acquisitions and disposals as well as extensive real estate work across its portfolio of more than 50 dealership properties nationwide. The Wilkes team was led by Senior Partner, Gareth O’Hara (Corporate), supported by Partner, Mark Hodgson (Real Estate), Partner, James Leo (Employment), Associate Solicitor, Matt Hartas (Corporate), Solicitor, Emma Richardson (Corporate), and Paralegal, Matt Workman (Corporate). Commenting on the deal, Gareth O’Hara, Senior Partner at Wilkes, said: “We are really pleased to have supported Johnsons Cars on this important sale. Having worked with the business for over 20 years, we have advised them on a wide range of matters, and it’s rewarding to see the shareholders reach this milestone. This transaction reflects the strength of our long-standing relationship and the way our corporate, real estate and employment teams work together to support their business.” Mike Berwick, Chief Executive of Johnsons Cars Ltd, said, “Our relationship with Wilkes spans over 20 years and has grown alongside our business. Wilkes have advised us on everything from acquisitions and property matters to day-to-day legal support. That continuity, depth of understanding of our business and the trust we’ve built over time, meant Wilkes were the only firm with the expertise we wanted by our side for the sale of the group.” For further information, please contact: [email protected] About Wilkes Wilkes are one of the leading independent medium-sized UK law firms operating nationally and internationally from the Midlands region. The firm provides a wide range of specialist expertise aimed at our core clients – SME businesses, entrepreneurs, individuals, financiers, charities and public sector. With offices in central Birmingham, we pride ourselves on our partner-led service, backed up by almost 200 associates, assistant solicitors and support staff. We provide a partner-led service, both nationally and internationally through our international associations. Company name: Wilkes Company URL: https://www.wilkes.co.uk Connect with Wilkes: https://www.wilkes.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-wilkes-partnership/ https://www.instagram.com/wilkeslaw/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Wilkes-Solicitors

Wilkes is proud to announce that the firm has once again been shortlisted at the prestigious British Wills and Probate Awards 2025—this year for Probate Provider of the Year – North & Midlands and Community & Charity Champion. Wilkes has demonstrated its commitment to making a meaningful difference beyond legal services through a range of initiatives. These include partnerships with both Birmingham Hospice and Marie Curie Hospice, support for KidsOut and Let’s Feed Brum, regular foodbank drives, mentoring with Leadership Through Sport & Business (LTSB), and funding for grassroots sports groups. The dual recognition reflects the strength and technical excellence of Wilkes’ Private Client team in wills, probate, and estate planning, as well as the firm’s deep-rooted commitment to supporting the local community. Launched in 2018, the British Wills and Probate Awards celebrate excellence, innovation, and impact across the private client sector. Finalists are selected following a rigorous and independent judging process, with winners revealed on 9th October 2025 at a ceremony in Manchester. Commenting on the shortlisting, Ellie Holland, Managing Partner and Head of the Private Client Department at Wilkes, said: “We are delighted to be shortlisted not only for Probate Provider of the Year, but also for Community & Charity Champion. This recognition reflects the hard work of the firm as a whole and the dedication of our Private Client team, who consistently go above and beyond to support clients through complex and often emotional matters. We are really proud to be named as a finalist amongst such outstanding firms in recognition of our commitment to excellence, client care, and making a positive difference in the wider community.” Ann-Marie Aston, Partner in the Private Client team and Head of Wilkes’ CSR Committee, added: “At Wilkes, we believe our role extends beyond legal work. The time and energy our staff dedicate to volunteering, mentoring, and supporting local charities is testament to the values that underpin the firm. It is rewarding to see both our professional excellence and our community commitment being recognised in this way.” Further details about The British Wills and Probate Awards 2025 are available at www.britishwillsandprobateawards.co.uk For more information please contact [email protected] About Wilkes: Wilkes are one of the leading independent medium-sized UK law firms operating nationally and internationally from the Midlands region. The firm provides a wide range of specialist expertise aimed at our core clients – SME businesses, entrepreneurs, individuals, financiers, charities and public sector. With offices in central Birmingham, we pride ourselves on our partner-led service, backed up by almost 200 associates, assistant solicitors and support staff. Connect with Wilkes: https://www.wilkes.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-wilkes-partnership/ https://www.instagram.com/wilkeslaw/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Wilkes-Solicitors

Birmingham 19th June 2025 Wilkes is pleased to announce its role in advising the shareholders of China Industries Limited, trading as WOW! Stuff, on the sale and management re-investment of the business to a Netherlands-based purchaser. The deal marks a significant moment in the global toy industry and involved a multi-layered and cross-border transaction structure, including a complex rollover investment. WOW! Stuff, headquartered in Wolverhampton with operations in Los Angeles and Hong Kong, is a global toy innovation business known for its work with major brands such as Disney, Marvel, Universal, Warner Bros., and its own IP, Puppetronics. Its unique product designs have received multiple Toy of the Year award nominations and wins. Wilkes has acted for WOW! Stuff for over 25 years, advising on acquisitions, sales, and investment rounds throughout the company’s growth journey. Gareth O’Hara, Senior Partner at Wilkes, led the corporate legal team and was supported by Solicitor Emma Richardson and Solicitor Alexandra Lakeland-Reed. Commenting on the deal, Gareth O’Hara said: “This was a strategically significant and technically complex transaction involving cross-border elements and a range of commercial instruments. WOW! Stuff is an exceptional business with world-class partnerships and innovation, and it’s been a privilege to support the shareholders through this next chapter.” Richard North, co-founder and President of WOW! Stuff, said: "Wilkes were truly exceptional throughout the process. The legal due diligence, while extensive, was never elongated. Gareth, Emma and Alex were always available, always on hand to answer any questions and at any time; morning noon and night - for which I must apologise to them for! With this highest level of service and competence, they will continue to be our legal advisers post deal, which I think speaks of the confidence both our continuing management team and our investors have in Wilkes." The deal reflects the growing international interest in innovative UK consumer brands and highlights the strength of Midlands-based advisers in delivering complex cross-border transactions. Wilkes worked alongside corporate finance advisers Marktlink (Jonny Parkinson and Joe Moran), with Claritas (Ses Memhi) advising on the rollover element, and PKF Smith Cooper (Adam Rollason) advising on tax. For media inquiries or further information, please contact: [email protected]   About Wilkes: Wilkes are one of the leading independent medium-sized UK law firms operating nationally and internationally from the Midlands region. The firm provides a wide range of specialist expertise aimed at our core clients – SME businesses, entrepreneurs, individuals, financiers, charities and public sector. With offices in central Birmingham, we pride ourselves on our partner-led service, backed up by almost 200 associates, assistant solicitors and support staff. Gareth O’Hara is a Legal 500 Recommended Lawyer: https://www.legal500.com/firms/1562-the-wilkes-partnership/766-birmingham-england/lawyers/756196-gareth-ohara/ We provide a partner-led service, both nationally and internationally through our international associations. Connect with Wilkes: https://www.wilkes.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-wilkes-partnership/ https://www.instagram.com/wilkeslaw/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Wilkes-Solicitors   About WOW! Stuff WOW! Stuff is a toy innovation company with a mission to bring great brands to life or create new brands crafted by an in-house team of scientists, engineers and product developers. WOW! Stuff’s stated mission is ‘to work until our brains hurt to deliver toys and pop-culture products that are really INNOVATIVE, ON BRAND, IN UNIVERSE, ALWAYS!’. WOW! Stuff has won numerous awards and global recognition for its unique tech-toys and world first toy inventions, is a 6 times ‘TOTY’ (Toy of The Year) award nominee and 3 times winner, including what might be considered the biggest award in the world of toys, America’s ‘Overall Toy of The Year 2025’. In recent years, the company has created and led the category of Puppetronics, again winning multiple awards for its work on interpreting leading licensed characters as RealFX and Puppetronics brands. In June 2025 WOW! Stuff became a member of the Troy Companies Group with significant investment for expansion to compete with the biggest toy companies for major licenses while supported with world class manufacturing and logistics. For more information see www.wowstuff.com

Birmingham, UK – 1 May 2025 — Wilkes, a leading Midlands independent law firm, is pleased to announce the promotion of five lawyers to Partner. The promotions, which span key business and private client teams, reflect the firm’s commitment to recognising talent from within and strengthening its leadership for the future. The newly promoted partners are Lucy Freeman (Corporate), Emma Hutchison (Business Recovery and Turnaround), Harriet Critchley (Property Litigation), Kate Campbell-Gunn (Personal Injury & Clinical Negligence) and Sophie Fenn (Private Client). Ellie Holland, Managing Partner at Wilkes, said: “We are proud to recognise the hard work and strong contributions of Lucy, Emma, Harriet, Kate and Sophie. Each has demonstrated outstanding technical expertise, a commitment to delivering the highest levels of service, and a passion for supporting clients and colleagues alike. Their promotions are well deserved and reinforce our investment in the next generation of leaders who will drive the firm’s continued success.” The promotions come at a time of strong performance for Wilkes, with the firm set to conclude its financial year delivering 10% year-on-year growth. The expansion of the partnership is a key part of the firm’s long-term strategy, ensuring a strong platform for future growth and success across all areas of the business. With these latest promotions, Wilkes continues to strengthen its offering to both business and private clients, while reinforcing its commitment to diversity, with 12 female partners now forming an integral part of the leadership team. Wilkes remains firmly focused on building a progressive, resilient firm, dedicated to providing expert legal advice and outstanding service to clients across the Midlands and beyond. – ENDS –   For media inquiries, please contact: Maria Heckel, Marketing & Business Development Director E: [email protected] D: 0121 733 4321 M: 07974 283160 Notes to Editors: About Wilkes Wilkes is a leading independent Midlands law firm, providing expert legal advice to businesses, individuals, families, and public sector organisations across the UK. Known for its commercial approach, technical excellence, and commitment to client service, Wilkes combines the breadth of a full-service offering with a personal, partner-led approach. The firm advises across corporate, real estate, litigation, employment, and private client matters, as well as family law. Wilkes is committed to investing in its people and its future, building a progressive and resilient business to meet the evolving needs of its clients. Newly Promoted Partners Lucy Freeman – Corporate Lucy Freeman advises on a wide range of corporate transactions including acquisitions, disposals, management buyouts, share buy-backs, fundraisings, corporate reorganisations, and joint ventures. She also provides counsel on corporate governance, shareholder agreements, and constitutional documentation, working closely with directors, shareholders, entrepreneurs, owner-managed businesses, and a variety of investors and funders. Emma Hutchison – Business Recovery & Turnaround Emma Hutchison has over a decade of experience in Business Recovery, Turnaround, and Corporate and Personal Insolvency. She advises insolvency practitioners, directors, individuals, creditors, and purchasers on both contentious and non-contentious matters, including cross-border insolvencies. Kate Campbell-Gunn – Personal Injury & Clinical Negligence Kate Campbell-Gunn specialises in clinical negligence cases within the Personal Injury & Clinical Negligence team. She has played a key role in securing millions of pounds in damages for claimants, known for her client-focused approach and expertise in handling complex claims. Harriet Critchley – Property Litigation Harriet Critchley specialises in commercial and residential property disputes, including lease renewals, dilapidations claims, forfeiture, break notices, and landlord and tenant work. She has acted on high-value cases, including those linked to major redevelopment projects in the West Midlands. Sophie Fenn – Private Client Sophie Fenn is a specialist in private client law and a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and the Association of Lifetime Lawyers. She advises on wills, inheritance tax planning, and the administration of trusts and estates, with a particular focus on supporting older and vulnerable individuals, their families, and caregivers.

April 22nd, 2025 – Wilkes, a leading UK law firm, is pleased to announce its role in advising the shareholders of the Monarch Care Group in the sale of their businesses to Sameer Rizvi, of RDCP Care Holdings Ltd. The complex multi-million-pound transaction, which involves several key players across multiple industries, marks a significant milestone in the care sector. Wilkes provided expert legal advice to shareholders Angela Bir, Amit Bir, and Hiten Shanghavi, structuring a strategic exit and ensuring the smooth progression of the deal. Kiran Munawar, Associate Solicitor at Wilkes, led the corporate side of the deal whilst Charlotte Keys, Solicitor, led the commercial property aspect of the deal. “Working with Angela, Amit, and Hiten on this sale has been a rewarding experience,” said Gareth O’Hara, Corporate Partner at Wilkes. “The Monarch Care Group has a strong reputation in the care sector, and as long-standing clients of the firm, it’s been fantastic to help them navigate such a significant transaction.” Angela Bir, Managing Director at Monarch Care Group said, “I am extremely happy with the Wilkes team who have done an amazing job to get this deal over the line with 7 separate companies to sell and some of the complexities that arose during the transaction process. All the solicitors involved in the transaction were always at hand even during out of hours. I would like to express my special thanks to Kiran Munawar, Charlotte Keys and Ryan Gardener for their dedication from start to finish on this deal.” This deal signifies a promising new chapter for the Monarch Care Group under its new ownership, with RDCP Care Holdings Ltd. poised to continue its growth and further enhance its footprint in the care industry. Working alongside Wilkes were corporate finance advisers Grant Thornton and accountants, Brindleys, who handled the transaction's financial aspects. Pinsent Masons acted on behalf of Barclays Bank, while Kent Finance, Sheridans, and HCR Law provided advice to the buyer, RDCP Care Holdings Ltd. For further information or inquiries, please contact: [email protected] About Wilkes Wilkes are one of the leading independent medium-sized UK law firms operating nationally and internationally from the Midlands region. The firm provides a wide range of specialist expertise aimed at our core clients – SME businesses, entrepreneurs, individuals, financiers, charities and public sector. With offices in central Birmingham, we pride ourselves on our partner-led service, backed up by almost 200 associates, assistant solicitors and support staff. We provide a partner-led service, both nationally and internationally through our international associations. Company name: Wilkes Company URL: https://www.wilkes.co.uk Connect with Wilkes: https://www.wilkes.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-wilkes-partnership/ https://www.instagram.com/wilkeslaw/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Wilkes-Solicitors

April 1st, 2025 – Leading Birmingham-based law firm, Wilkes, has acted as legal advisers to the shareholder of Advanced Engineering (Middleton) Ltd (Company) on the sale of the entire issued share capital of the company to D C Norris & Company Ltd (D C Norris), a leading provider of food and beverage industrial cooking equipment. The Company has retained a prominent status in the market, known for its cutting-edge mixer design and technology. The sale enables the Company to now enter into a new phase under the ownership of D C Norris. The deal was facilitated with the expert support of Wilkes' corporate team, who worked closely with the tax and corporate finance advisers at BK Plus. Associate Solicitor, Kiran Munawar, led the corporate aspects of the transaction while Senior Associate, Katherine Proctor, provided essential support on property matters. "We are delighted to have been able to assist the shareholder of Advanced Engineering in completing this transaction," said Kiran Munawar, Associate Solicitor in Wilkes' corporate team. "The sale marks an exciting new chapter for the Company, and we worked closely with all parties involved to ensure the deal was structured effectively and successfully executed." Advising the buyer, D C Norris, were Howes Percival, who provided legal support throughout the transaction process. Andrew Hudson, Director at Advanced Engineering (Middleton) Limited said “We would like to express our appreciation for the exceptional legal services and advice provided by Kiran Munawar and her team. Her dedication, availability in and out of normal working hours, and the extensive legal and technical expertise have been invaluable in addressing our legal needs with the sale of our company.” For more information, please contact: [email protected]. -ENDS- About Wilkes Wilkes are one of the leading independent medium-sized UK law firms operating nationally and internationally from the Midlands region. The firm provides a wide range of specialist expertise aimed at our core clients – SME businesses, entrepreneurs, individuals, financiers, charities and public sector. With offices in central Birmingham, we pride ourselves on our partner-led service, backed up by almost 200 associates, assistant solicitors and support staff. We provide a partner-led service, both nationally and internationally through our international associations. Company name: Wilkes Company URL: https://www.wilkes.co.uk Connect with Wilkes: https://www.wilkes.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-wilkes-partnership/ https://www.instagram.com/wilkeslaw/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Wilkes-Solicitors

Wilkes, a Birmingham-based law firm, has represented the claimant in a landmark judicial review case, described as “significant” by the Rt Hon Sir Justice Holgate. Wilkes’ Planning Team, a leading authority on Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) matters, advised the claimant. The case examined whether a council was time-barred under section 9 of the Limitation Act 1980 from serving a CIL Stop Notice nine years after the chargeable amount became due. The Act typically limits recovery actions to six years. However, Mr. Justice Mould ruled that "action" in section 9(1) does not apply to administrative actions like issuing a CIL Stop Notice, allowing councils indefinite time to act. The claimant, granted planning permission in 2015 for a self-build project, sought a CIL exemption but mistakenly used the wrong form. This led to a disputed payment demand, legal challenges, and an appeal victory in 2022, where the council conceded it was time-barred from seeking a liability order. Despite this, the council issued a CIL Stop Notice nine years after the original demand, prompting the judicial review. This ruling has major implications for developers and local authorities, confirming that councils can issue CIL Stop Notices at any time, even post-development, exposing developers to prolonged enforcement risks. It underscores the need for accuracy in CIL compliance and timely legal advice. Wilkes Planning Team worked with Leanne Buckley-Thomson of No5 Chambers on this case. The judgment can be found here: https://www.bailii.org/ew/cases/EWHC/Admin/2025/365.html  

Wilkes, a leading Birmingham-based law firm, is proud to announce that Senior Partner Gareth O’Hara has joined the Board of the German-British Chamber of Industry & Commerce.This appointment highlights Gareth’s commitment to strengthening business ties between the UK and Germany. In addition to his new board role, Gareth also serves as the Chair of the Midlands Regional Committee, reflecting his commitment to driving economic growth and collaboration in the region. Founded in 1971, the German-British Chamber of Industry & Commerce is a business-to-business organisation with a membership of around 800 British and German firms. The Chamber’s commercial services support approximately 10,000 companies annually, providing business contacts, information, and advice to help organisations launch or grow their export activities. Commenting on his appointment, Gareth O’Hara said: "It is an honour to join the Board of the German-British Chamber of Industry & Commerce and continue working with such a respected organisation. The Chamber plays a vital role in strengthening trade ties between the UK and Germany, and I am excited to contribute to its ongoing success. As Senior Partner at Wilkes, I look forward to bringing my experience to this role and supporting businesses across both countries in navigating opportunities for growth." Wilkes congratulates Gareth on this significant achievement and looks forward to seeing his contributions to the Chamber and the businesses it supports.  

Wilkes, an award-winning law firm, is pleased to announce its role as legal advisor to the shareholders of UK Electrical Wholesale Limited in their successful sale, securing a strategic exit for one of the main shareholders and a continued role for the other. UK Electrical Wholesale, a leading name in the electrical distribution sector, has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality products and expertise across the industry. This transaction marks an important milestone for the shareholders, who were supported by Wilkes in navigating the complexities of the deal, from negotiations through to completion. The Corporate team’s dedicated approach ensured a smooth process for all involved, bringing the transaction to a successful close just in time for the October Budget. Rick Smyth, Partner at Wilkes, commented: “We are delighted to have advised the shareholders of UK Electrical Wholesale Limited on this transaction. Completing the sale before the October Budget was a priority for our clients, and our team worked closely with Dains Corporate Finance to achieve this outcome. The continuity plan for one shareholder and the exit for the other represents a well-aligned solution for both parties, allowing them to meet their long-term goals. It was a pleasure to support our clients on this journey and ensure a successful transition.” Chris Pope, UK Electrical Wholesale Limited, Managing Director, added: "Wilkes provided outstanding support throughout the sale process, guiding us expertly through each phase and addressing every detail with precision. Their dedication to achieving a seamless transition, particularly under a tight timeline, made a complex transaction remarkably straightforward. We are grateful for their expertise and commitment to ensuring the best outcome for everyone involved." The Wilkes Corporate team, led by Partner Rick Smyth and supported by Christie Nelson, advised the shareholders in the sale.  Rob Wilson and Sophie Rogers at Dains Corporate Finance played an instrumental role in coordinating the transaction. Stephenson Harwood acted as legal advisors to the buyer.