Corporate

Thomson Snell & Passmore is proud to have acted for Watts Farms for many years.

Thomson Snell & Passmore is proud to have acted for Watts Farms for many years.  

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises CML Microsystems PLC on purchase of semiconductor design house

Thomson Snell & Passmore recently acted for longstanding client, CML Microsystems Plc (CML), on its purchase of Plextek RFI Limited (PRFI), a leading semiconductor design house. 

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise SMP Group PLC on investment in software company, Swoop Applications Limited

Thomson Snell & Passmore has advised SMP Group on its investment in software company, Swoop Applications Limited. 

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises on MBO of Kent Fresh Produce Distributor

Thomson Snell & Passmore has advised on the management buy out of a Kent based fresh produce storage and distributor.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises on research agency acquisition 

Thomson Snell & Passmore’s corporate team recently acted for long-standing creative services client in relation to the acquisition of the business and assets of a research agency.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise long-standing client on family transfer of shares

Thomson Snell & Passmore corporate team recently acted for long-standing client in relation to the transfer of shares between family members. 

Demerger by way of share capital reduction

The corporate team at Thomson Snell & Passmore recently advised a longstanding client on a demerger by way of a share capital reduction.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises on sale of specialist environmental consultancy

Thomson Snell & Passmore has advised Dr Peter Fisk and his wife Carol in relation to the sale of their company, Peter Fisk Associates Limited, in a management buy-out to the existing management team comprising Oliver Warwick, Louise McLaughlin and Ros Wildey. 

Case Studies on Force Majeure and Frustration

Thomson Snell & Passmore has been asked to support a number of clients in the events and hospitality industry with contractual queries relating to the COVID-19 outbreak.

CML Microsystems Plc Acquires Plextek RFI Ltd

Leading South East law firm Thomson Snell & Passmore confirms that CML Microsystems Plc (“CML”), which designs, manufactures and markets semiconductors, primarily for global communication and solid state storage markets, has acquired 100% of the share capital of UK-based Plextek RFI Ltd ("PRFI").

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises on MBO

Thomson Snell & Passmore has advised on the management buy out of a Kent based fresh produce supplier.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise SMP Group PLC on investment in software company

Thomson Snell & Passmore has advised SMP Group on its investment in software company, Swoop Applications Limited.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises on a company restructure

We recently advised our client, a Kent and Sussex based garden centre and horticulture production business, on its transfer into a new holding company.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises on the sale of a medical malpractice insurance brokerage

We advised Foley Healthcare Limited, a medical malpractice insurance brokerage, on its acquisition by Stackhouse Poland Holdings Limited.

Group restructurings throughout the busy Christmas period

The Corporate and Commercial team at Thomson Snell & Passmore recently completed two group restructurings throughout the busy Christmas period.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises on purchase of assets of a laboratory equipment manufacturer

Thomson Snell & Passmore recently acted for a long-standing client in relation to the purchase of the assets of a business specialising in the design and manufacture of specialist laboratory equipment, based in Norfolk.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises on asset purchase for specialist printing company

We recently advised our client, one of the UK’s leading specialist printers, on an asset acquisition from another printing company.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises on sale of a golf club

Thomson Snell & Passmore recently acted for a new client in relation to the sale of a golf club in East Sussex.

Nurture Landscapes completes three acquisitions

The Corporate & Commercial team here at Thomson Snell & Passmore is delighted to say that it has recently assisted Nurture Landscapes in its three recent acquisitions (Eco Landscapes, Demita Plants and Jordans Interiors).

Thomson Snell & Passmore provide guidance on the Commercial Agency Regulations to a UK subsidiary

Our client is a specialist alloys supplier based outside of Europe, with a UK subsidiary. Our client wished to formalise the relationship between the subsidiary and a sales agent in another part of Europe.

A summer of sunshine, sales and acquisitions

It has been a scorching summer for Thomson Snell & Passmore's Corporate team and not just because of the weather.

IT security software developer, terms of partnership

Leading South East law firm Thomson Snell & Passmore advises shareholders of Iphelion

Iphelion Limited, a UK-based template management company, has been acquired by BigHand Limited, a provider of digital dictation software & workflow solutions.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise on purchase of the business and assets of a construction company

We recently advised our client in relation to a pre-pack purchase of the business and assets of a construction company that had gone into administration.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise care home owners on sale of care home business in St Leonards-on-sea

We advised the owners on the sale of their residential care home in St Leonards-on-sea.

Sale of the entire issued share capital of a building services company

We acted in the sale of the entire issued share capital of a building services company who provide consultancy services to the construction industry.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise nurture landscapes on their 19th acquisition

The corporate and commercial team here at Thomson Snell & Passmore is delighted to say that it has recently assisted Nurture Landscapes in making made its 19th acquisition. Nurture has bought Enterprise Plants, a company with £4m annual sales based in Upminster, Essex.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises on the purchase of luxury self-catering holiday cottage business, Compton Pool Farm

Leading South East law firm Thomson Snell & Passmore have advised on the purchase of the highly successful luxury self-catering holiday cottage business, Compton Pool Farm. 

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises on sale of franchise business

Thomson Snell & Passmore has advised Goldex Investments Limited, a major Costa Coffee franchisee in the UK

FORTEC Elektronik AG expands presence in the UK market

Leading South East law firm, Thomson Snell & Passmore, have advised FORTEC Elektronik AG as it consolidates plans to further strengthen its position in the UK data visualization sector.

Advising Motorline on its strategic acquisition of Hyundai digital stores

We advised our long-standing client Motorline Group on its recent acquisition of two Hyundai digital stores in Bluewater and Westfield Stratford, and its acquisition of the Hyundai Aftersales Centre in Dartford.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise the UK’s leading knife sharpening supplier on a second asset acquisition of the year

Following a successful asset acquisition in early 2018, we advised our existing family business client in relation to a second acquisition of the year.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise on the sale of Weald Insurance to Broker Network

We advised the shareholders of Weald Broking Management Limited, the holding company of Weald Insurance Brokers Limited, in relation to the sale of the company to a newly incorporated special purpose vehicle (SPV).

Thomson Snell & Passmore co-ordinates asset purchase

We assisted an exhibition stand designer company with strategic succession planning via asset purchase.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise the UK’s leading and longest established knife sharpening and food processing supplier on asset acquisition

We advised our existing family business client in connection with a business asset acquisition in the form of goodwill, stock and machinery.

Thomson Snell & Passmore co-ordinates funding and corporate restructuring of leading food processing equipment company

We assisted a long-standing 6th generation family business in the share sales of two shareholders followed by their resignation as directors on completion.

Thomson Snell & Passmore co-ordinates cross-border sale of global manufacturer

We advised in connection with the UK elements of the sale of a multinational corporation to a private equity fund via a combination of share and asset sales and purchase transactions.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise long-standing client Colas Limited on their latest acquisition

Thomson Snell & Passmore has acted for national civil engineering firm, Colas Limited, a long-standing client of the firm, in respect of its recent acquisition

Thomson Snell & Passmore co-ordinates strategic share buy back

We acted for a specialist chocolate manufacturer on a share buy back leading to the exit of one of the key shareholders and directors.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise specialist security door company on strategic acquisition

We acted for Sunray Engineering Limited on the acquisition of Prestige Fire Door Services Limited; a specialist designer, manufacturer and installer of specialist fire doors.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise Kit 4 Kids Global Limited on £3.7 million investment

We assisted Kit 4 Kids on their £3.7 million development capital fund raise with Connection Capital.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises £25 million family run tyre-dealer business

We advised Kent based family-run tyre dealer and autocentre company, Watling Tyre Service Limited, in connection with a share purchase and restructuring transaction. The purchase involved the buy out of the minority shareholder.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise on management buyout for office furniture company

We acted for an office furniture company in a management buy-out including cross jurisdictional negotiation.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise on purchase of Aldenham Golf & Country Club

We advised a long-standing client, based in the construction industry on its purchase of Aldenham Golf & Country Club.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise UK's leading & longest established knife sharpening and food processing equipment supplier

We acted for and advised the UK’s leading & longest established knife sharpening and food processing equipment supplier in relation to the purchase of shares and group restructure transaction.

Purchase of charity in administration

We acted for Real Group Limited, a professional training and education provider, in its purchase of assets of a distressed national charity, Dyslexia Action.

Purchase of organic farming company

We have acted for a longstanding individual client in connection with a recent business venture - the purchase of the entire share capital in a private family company involved in organic farming

Acting for longstanding client motor trade dealer group

Thomson Snell & Passmore has acted for the Motorline Group, a long-standing client of the firm in respect of its recent acquisitions of various dealerships across the South East, South West and the Midlands. 

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise Lavendar & Lillie Limited

The corporate team recently advised Lavender & Lillie Limited, a Kent based company which was established to supply luxury goods,

Probate sale of complex farming estate and farming business

TSP’s multi-disciplinary team were able to provide a seamless, expert and sensitive service to a farming family with a farming company and a mixture of residential and agricultural property.

Securing the wealth of the next generation of a Kent farming family

Gilbert Green leads a multi-disciplinary team which has provided advice to a leading farming family on the sale of land for development, the purchase of new land and the efficient structuring of their existing holdings.

Sale of treasured family farm

Penelope Edgar acted on the sale of three lots of former agricultural land. The sale was both complex and sensitive as the family had grown up on the land and were sad to lose it.

Shareholders’ agreement & company advice

Our client is a world wide supplier of geophysical products and services, including software and the manufacture of geotechnical marine equipment.

Sale of pub as a going concern

Our client owned a pub in the heart of the Worcester countryside, which he wished to sell as a going concern.

Acquisition of recycling plant as a going concern

Our client is a multi-functional construction organisation, working within the reinstatement and building sectors. We were instructed to advise on the acquisition of the assets of a recycling plant.

Thomson Snell & Passmore completes sale of a mobile telephone retail franchise

Thomson Snell & Passmore has recently advised a seller on the sale of his mobile phone retail business.

Advice on Intellectual Property licensing issues related to insolvency

Advice on Intellectual Property licensing issues related to insolvency

Sale of Hitec Laboratories to American company Mitratech Inc

Thomson Snell & Passmore acted for the shareholders of a longstanding client of the firm, Hitec (Laboratories) Limited, a company which specialises in risk solution applications and information management, in the sale of the entire share capital of their company to Mitratech Inc.  

Acting for a longstanding client in their most recent acquisitions

During 2016, Thomson Snell & Passmore acted for a longstanding client of the firm, Nurture Landscapes Holdings Limited, in respect of three acquisitions.  

Advice on the sale of Pure Asphalt Company Limited to IKO Plc

Thomson Snell & Passmore acted for the shareholders of Pure Asphalt Company Limited in relation to the sale of their shares in the company to IKO. Nick Gabay, a Partner in the Corporate & Commercial Team, led on the transaction.

Advice on Fox Print Services Acquisition of Mastercolour Plc

Thomson Snell & Passmore acted for Fox Print Services (Tunbridge Wells) Limited in relation to its acquisition of the entire issued share capital in Mastercolour Plc. Nick Gabay, a Partner in the Corporate & Commercial Team, led on the transaction.

Acquisition of Attitude Magazine

Thomson Snell & Passmore acted for Stream Publishing Limited in relation to its acquisition of Attitude Media Limited. Nick Gabay, a Partner in the Corporate & Commercial Team, led on the transaction.

A very good firm

Our corporate team recently completed the purchase of one of the South East’s most popular, family friendly golf venues, Wexham Park Golf and Leisure Centre Limited (Wexham Park) for an undisclosed sum.

Advising Parcel ABC Limited on their start-up and trading terms

Advising Parcel ABC Limited on their start-up and trading terms

Sale of Liz Dove Limited to Cook Trading Limited

We acted for the shareholders of Liz Dove Limited in relation to the sale of that company to Cook Trading Limited.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises Centron Diagnostics Limited on its technology sale to international US company

Thomson Snell & Passmore has advised Centron Diagnostics Ltd, a spin-out company from King's College London, in relation to the sale of its central blood pressure monitoring technology and assets to SunTech Medical Inc, a global leader in clinical-grade, non-invasive blood pressure measurement solutions.

Purchase of a Rwandan tea estate

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises global tea giant on strategic international acquisition.

SC Motor Factors Limited Accelerates Plans for Growth

Thomson Snell & Passmore advised SC Motor Factors Limited in relation to a significant private equity investment from HgCapital.

Procter Consultancy Limited

This case study demonstrates the expertise of our Corporate, Commercial, and Employment teams who together advised the shareholders of Proctor Consultancy Limited on the acquisition of Procter by Imparta Limited. The case study is an example of how we can work closely with a client to achieve the intended result, however complex the transaction and however short the timetable is.

Thomson Snell & Passmore responds to the Chancellor’s Summer Statement

Post-lockdown: prepare your business for sale or investment

New Corporate Partner for Thomson Snell & Passmore

Key commercial considerations for charities as they come out of lockdown

Firm promotion: New senior partner at Thomson Snell & Passmore

South east firm Thomson Snell & Passmore, the world’s oldest law firm, has appointed Joanna Pratt as senior partner.

Thomson Snell & Passmore appoints Joanna Pratt as Senior Partner in historic year for the firm

Leading South East law firm Thomson Snell & Passmore is pleased to announce the appointment of Joanna Pratt as its new Senior Partner.

The FCA seeks to lockdown the dispute on business interruption insurance

COVID-19: Top-up to local business grant funds scheme launched

COVID-19: Bounce Back Loan Scheme (BBLS)

Here for you – during COVID-19

UPDATED: COVID-19: Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CLBILS)

COVID-19: Additional help at hand for start-ups

Pre-packs in administration overview

Further changes to Entrepreneurs’ Relief as it becomes ‘Business Asset Disposal Relief’

One of the most eagerly anticipated announcements in the most recent Budget was the Government’s position regarding Entrepreneurs’ Relief.

An Overview of Group Reorganisations

COVID-19: Impact on Annual General Meetings

COVID-19: Forbearance and waiver in relation to payments

COVID-19: Relaxation of insolvency laws

COVID- 19: The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises on sale of specialist environmental consultancy

COVID-19 – Coronavirus Act

COVID-19: Understanding how the Covid Corporate Financing Facility (CCFF) can help your organisation

COVID-19 and your contractual relationships

COVID-19: Cancelling dividends to protect cash reserves

COVID-19: UPDATED: Companies House changes

COVID-19: guidance on business support

UPDATED: COVID-19: guidance in relation to Data Protection

The ICO has issued brief guidance to data controllers in relation to the COVID-19 outbreak.

UPDATED: COVID-19: Understanding how the business interruption loan scheme can help your organisation

COVID-19: How Companies House changes could impact on businesses

Nurture Landscapes makes 24th and 25th acquisitions

Thomson Snell & Passmore supports long-term client with continued growth plans

The Budget: Our thoughts

Survival of the most adaptable

Taking The Right Approach To Due Diligence When Acquiring A Business: Key Steps To Success

Georgia Jeffrey explores the importance of due diligence for Acquisition International Magazine

Written agreements and why they matter

As much as us lawyers love to draft contracts (the longer the better!) you don’t need a written agreement to make a contract. This is obvious really – no one demands your signature to buy a Wispa at the corner shop – but when matters are beyond the merely routine, a written agreement is essential in ensuring that risks are agreeably allocated, there is consistency of understanding between the parties and that all the aspects of the agreement needed to make the agreement work, are included.

How to protect your interest in a business during a divorce

Despite the best intentions of the spouses and their legal representatives, divorce is often a traumatic and difficult process. Divorce proceedings are frequently complicated and protracted and the animosity between the parties will often increase where there is a family business.

1st Step Solutions Ltd Acquires On-Site London, to Further Grow the 1st Step Group

Leading South East law firm Thomson Snell & Passmore confirms completion of the acquisition of On-Site London by specialist recruitment services business 1st Step Solutions Ltd. 

Reminders for Data Protection Day for UK based businesses

If you control personal data, you will need to register with the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) and pay a fee unless you are exempt. You can check whether you are required to register here: https://ico.org.uk/for-organisations/data-protection-fee/self-assessment/

Protecting your ideas: what you need to know about the law of confidence and NDAs

During the bit between Christmas and New Year, it is great to watch old movies and eat leftovers, but there is also plenty of time for the mind to wander.

New Corporate Tax Consultant for Thomson Snell & Passmore

Leading South East law firm Thomson Snell & Passmore has appointed corporate tax lawyer Nitzan Cohen, to work as a Consultant alongside its corporate and commercial teams, providing expert advice to clients on a range of business tax related matters.

Thomson Snell & Passmore confirm completion of the sale of KH Engineering Services

Thomson Snell & Passmore is delighted to confirm completion of the sale of KH Engineering Services (KHES), one of the UK's leading providers of mechanical and electrical engineering for the rail and transport sector.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise Motorline on Audi double deal

Leading South East law firm, Thomson Snell & Passmore, has assisted the Motorline Group with a double acquisition as it increases its Audi portfolio with the purchase of the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells Audi businesses from Inchcape.

Thomson Snell & Passmore acts on ingredients firm deal

South East law firm Thomson Snell & Passmore has advised on the sale of Henley Bridge Ingredients (HBI).

Risk Management – how business managers can be proactive

There is an art to running a business that is quite separate from the goods or services you are providing. 

Case Analysis – Persimmon Homes Ltd v Hillier (Court of Appeal Decision)

Court of Appeal upholds High Court decision to rectify sale documents governing a sale of development land and order property developers to pay damages to major housebuilding company.

BEIS publishes consultation on corporate transparency and reform of the companies register

The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy are consulting on substantial new proposals to enhance the role of Companies House, increase the transparency of UK corporate entities and help combat economic crime.

How to sell a business

Welcome to Thomson Snell & Passmore’s legal guide to selling your business. Selling your business is one of the most important decisions a seller will ever make. For many business owners, entrepreneurs or management teams, it will often be unfamiliar territory.

Brexit - what if?

It is fair to say, that businesses are still mostly uncertain about what impact Brexit will have on them.

How to buy a business

Welcome to Thomson Snell & Passmore’s legal guide to acquiring a business. The decision to buy a business is a major one for a company or individual and for many people, it will often be unfamiliar territory.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises on SE10 MBO

Law firm Thomson Snell & Passmore, has advised on the corporate restructure and Management Buy-Out (MBO) of SE10, and its related group companies.

Navigating Family Business Politics

Family businesses have their own internal dynamics and complexities - this article examines some of the pitfalls and challenges both for family members, and those on the outside.

How to sell a business, part 7 of 10: What happens if it goes wrong?

This week, we look at the problems that can arise after completion of a sale.

How to sell a business, part 5 of 10: Managing employment issues

Dealing with staff issues when selling your business can be one of the most challenging aspects of a corporate transaction. Managing employees before the sale and preparing them for life after can take up a large amount of a seller’s time.

How to sell a business, part 6 of 10: Managing Property Issues

If you are selling a business that uses commercial premises then the property aspects of the sale will be very important to a prospective buyer.

FAQ: Budget 2018

With the Budget recent announced, the last before the UK is set to leave the EU, we consider a few of the key changes which will impact on individuals and businesses.

How to sell a business, part 4 of 10: Surviving Due Diligence & Disclosure

This article will drill down into more detail on the due diligence and disclosure exercise. We will discuss how best to prepare (and survive!) this very important phase of the sale process.

How to sell a business, part 3 of 10: Understanding the process of selling your business

This week, we will consider the sale process as a whole. The Thomson Snell & Passmore online guide to selling your business provides an excellent overview of the main 8 stages of a sale. This article will drill into a bit more detail setting out ten tips for a successful sale based on our experience in this area.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advise on another successful Nurture Landscapes deal

Leading South East law firm Thomson Snell & Passmore is pleased to announce the completion of another successful acquisition by its client Nurture Landscapes Limited. Grace Landscapes Ltd has recently been welcomed into the Nurture family and officially became part of the Nurture Group on 1 October 2018. 

How to sell a business, part 2 of 10: Structuring the 'exit' to achieve your goals

We will focus on a prospective seller who has put together their team of professional advisors and is starting to formulate their sales strategy.

How to sell a business, part 1 of 10: Preparing your business for an 'exit'

The term 'exit' is used a lot by business consultants, corporate finance managers, brokers, accountants and lawyers too. The term can have various meanings depending on the context but generally refers to a business owner's plan to sell their business.

Is your company’s constitution fit for purpose?

A common theme which is shared among many business owners and directors in the UK, operating as a private limited company, is that they often have no idea what their company’s constitution contains, let alone where to find it.  

How family business can stay entrepreneurial

Every business needs to remain entrepreneurial. However, a family business faces unique challenges as growth and changing needs of the business will often come at the same time as the family grows and the involvement of family members in the business changes.

Are you lining up funding for your start up? Here are three reasons you should speak to a lawyer

How to survive your family business

Family businesses are the backbone of the UK economy. Two thirds of UK businesses are currently family owned, which generate over a quarter of the UK’s GDP. It is therefore somewhat surprising that only around 30% of family businesses survive the transition to the second generation, with only 12% making it to the third.

Historic law firm advises on MBO (Management buyout)

South East law firm Thomson Snell & Passmore has advised on the management buyout (MBO) of a London-based theatrical goods retailer.

For your business - October 2018

As a firm, we take pride in being a constant in a changing world. We hope this collection of articles will be helpful and provide food for thought on a number of topics. 

TSP Connect Seminar: Acquisition, Funding for Growth and Exit Strategies - Bridgewood Manor, Chatham, Kent

Thomson Snell & Passmore hosted a seminar for over 35 attendees discussing acquisitions, growth and exit strategies for businesses and business owners. 

Motorline joins Audi franchise with Inchcape dealership acquisition

Motorline Group has added Audi to its list of car manufacturer partners with the acquisition of the East Kent Audi franchise from Inchcape.

Handing over the reins: Tips for planning succession

For the founder of a business, putting in place a succession strategy and exiting the business can be a difficult process. Where some of the founder’s family are also involved in the business, that process can be further complicated by competing interests and differing visions. 

A step back in time with the Food and Drink Networking Club

If you work in the food and drink industry and would like to come along then please get in touch.

Supporting Nurture Landscapes as they bloom

As the award-winning Nurture Landscapes celebrates its 10th anniversary, we speak to managing director Peter Fane about the company’s exponential growth – including its most recent acquisition, which has nearly doubled its turnover.

Important news for companies considering granting EMI share options

Investing in a UK business – how to protect yourself

Exit on the horizon? 5 reasons to sell to a management team

Working with family businesses and SMEs, we know that succession planning is a common headache for owners.

Motorline takes over Hyundai digital stores

Leading South East law firm, Thomson Snell & Passmore, have assisted the Motorline Group in taking over the full operation of the Hyundai digital stores in Bluewater and Westfield Stratford from Rockar. Motorline have also taken over the Hyundai Aftersales Centre in Dartford.

Motorline invests further in Lexus

Leading South East law firm Thomson Snell & Passmore have assisted the Motorline Group as it closes off the year with another acquisition - the purchase of Lexus Bristol.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions from across the practice

Every month we answer frequently asked questions from across the practice and bring them together to help bring clarity to your legal needs. Each of the sections below lead off to a more comprehensive bank of information.

Motorline acquires again to strengthen Nissan market in the South of England

The Motorline group has recently completed another acquisition to add to its series of business purchases over the last few years.

Cot mattress maker Kit for Kids in Sevenoaks raises £3.7m from investors

A cot mattress manufacturer has secured £3.7 million from investors to meet growing demand in the UK and abroad.

Thomson Snell & Passmore advises Nurture on its fifth acquisition in the last 12 months expanding turnover to £35m

A national horticulture, landscape and grounds maintenance business headquartered in Surrey has completed its fifth acquisition in the last 12 months, with the latest deal taking its turnover to £35m and workforce to more than 500 employees.

The strengths and weaknesses of a joint takeover bid by PE firms

On 5 June Shawbrook Group received a revised takeover bid of £868m from Marlin Bidco, a company owned by private equity firms BC Partners and Pollen Street Capital Limited. This joint takeover bid was "final and not to be increased".

Landscape maintenance firm expands with acquisition

A national horticulture, landscape and grounds maintenance business with headquarters in Surrey has expanded with the takeover of a North West counterpart.

What is IP?

Intellectual Property (IP) is often referred to as “creations of the mind” and intellectual property rights help you to stop people from taking those creations without your permission.

Late payments: A cultural issue for SMEs?

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has claimed SMEs account for 99 per cent of all private sector businesses in the UK. Although a large number of these businesses thrive, many SMEs struggle with basic cash flow issues as a result of late payments.

Owner managed businesses : tax-efficient wills for company directors

Owner-managed businesses : tax-efficient wills for company directors

Giving away shares in the family company

Giving away shares in the family company

What does Brexit mean for your IP?

Curious about how Brexit will affect your intellectual property (IP) rights after the UK leaves the EU? Here’s a high level summary of some key points to consider. 

Mitratech swoops for Hitec Laboratories

Partner, Nick Gabay from our Corporate and Commerical team speaks to Insider Media Limited about the purchase of Hitec by Texas-based Mitratech.

Family Investment Companies – an alternative to trusts

A Family Investment Company can be very beneficial for inheritance tax planning, asset protection and wealth accumulation.  Nicola Plant, Partner in our Tax Planning team, gives an outline of the Family Investment Company and its uses.

When a merger between two companies fails

The following articles discusses why private and public acquisitions fall over, and how this can be prevented.  

A person with significant control (PSC)

From 6 April 2016, all UK companies (other than publicly traded companies) and limited liability partnerships (LLPs) are required to create and maintain a record of people who own or control their company on a register of people with significant control (PSC Register). In this article, “company” includes “LLP”.

Contractual Variation

Globe Motors, Inc and others - v - TRW Lucas Varity Electric Steering Limited and another [2016] EWCA Civ 396

Sign at your own risk!

Warnings have been issued for Monday as February provides us with an extra day this leap year. Signing contracts or completing property transactions which refer to anniversaries of the date of agreement, could leave you waiting for a very long time.

Business Protection: 3 Steps to Effective Planning

Business owners will be familiar with the concept of business protection planning by way of death or critical illness insurance. This is crucial when considering the impact that the death or serious illness of a business partner or shareholder might have on the continued success, profitability and long-term value of their business.

Thomson Snell & Passmore completes sale of shares in industrial tyre business

Thomson Snell & Passmore’s corporate team has advised new clients in connection with the sale of their family business for an undisclosed sum to a US buyer.

Protecting your business

Many business owners, when thinking about protecting their business, insure against common business risks such as property damage, theft, third party liability and business interruption.  A few also look at keyman insurance to cover the risk of the owner becoming incapacitated because of some physical or mental condition or unplanned absence abroad but very few create a lasting power of attorney which will give an individual the authority to run the business in such situations.

FAQ: Corporate & Commercial

Q: My business partner and I run a successful company together.  We are both directors and each have a 50% shareholding.  We want to protect our shares should the unexpected happen and one of us dies.  How can we do this?

Private companies can now hold treasury shares

Agents & Distributors - Key differences

Community Interest Companies

Companies Act 2006 Auditor Liability

Company buy-back of shares: proceed with caution!

Corporate Manslaughter

Forming a new company limited by guarantee

Forming a new company limited by shares

Harmonisation of EU consumer protection law

PSC Register

Property management companies: directors' duties and responsibilities

Protecting Directors and LLP Members from Fraud

Trading online - website information requirements