Demonstrating strength in M&A, private equity, venture capital, and capital markets mandates, Shoosmiths LLP is characterised as ‘professional, patient, and commercial’, particularly in its approach to strategic divestments and complex investment rounds. The practice is highly regarded for its expertise in the tech and consumer goods fields, routinely overseeing M&A and disposals of issued share capital. Based in Birmingham, Alistair Hammerton co-heads the outfit alongside Simon McArdle, both of whom specialise in funding rounds and major logistics deals. Ben Turner regularly advises large corporates and high-growth businesses; Alastair Peet acts for growth capital investors; and Daniel Shilvock focuses on private equity transactions. Fiona Teague is also recommended.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘A diverse team that benefits from depth of sector knowledge and insight, corporate / M&A expertise and commercial awareness.'

  • 'The team delivers an exceptional quality of client service that is effective and at a reasonable cost compared to the market.'
  • ‘Dan Shilvock is an exceptional corporate partner who delivers sound advice that balances commercial expertise and insightful suggestions with pragmatism. Always collaborative and responsive.

  • ‘Very receptive and approachable. Always get back to me quickly.'

  • ‘They have a deep expertise in VC transactions within the UK. Their team has a strong depth of partners and associates. The team is easy to work with, thoughtful, and pragmatic.’

  • ‘This legal practice is truly partnership-led, both in how it operates internally and how it works with its clients. Unlike many firms, they take the time to deeply understand their clients’ businesses, acting as strategic partners rather than just legal advisors. Their approach is highly collaborative, ensuring that clients benefit from the full expertise of their team rather than relying on individual lawyers.'

Key clients

  • 4D Capital Partners LLP
  • Alcentra Limited
  • Aramark
  • Armadeus Capital
  • Bright Pixel Capital
  • Business Growth Fund
  • Blackfinch Ventures
  • Britpart
  • BS Eaton
  • Carbon Quota Limited
  • Closer Group
  • Committed Capital

Work highlights

Acted as the legal advisor for Fosroc Group Holdings Limited, a British manufacturer of specialised construction chemicals, in the disposal of the entire issued share capital of Fosroc Top One Limited, Fosroc Top Two Limited, and Fosroc Supply FZE to Saint-Gobain.
Represented Aurias, a search fund comprising leading tech individuals, in the acquisition of Saepio Solutions Limited, an IT security services provider.
Represented DTCP Capital, a German investment firm, in their primary and secondary investment in Dexory Limited, a leading robotics and data intelligence company, as part of an approximately $80 million Series B funding round.

Lawyers

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

Alistair Hammerton; Simon McArdle

Other key lawyers

Ben Turner; Alastair Peet; Daniel Shilvock; Fiona Teague; Helen Burnell; David Meisel; Ben Gardner; Charlotte Cannell; Mandeep Vryaparj; Caroline Chester; Daniel Greatorex