Irwin Mitchell completes deal with Scottish law firm to “accelerate” growth plans
updated on 06 February 2024
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A deal between Irwin Mitchell LLP and Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP (WJM) will involve the two firms working together to “maximise the opportunities both sides of the border” for their clients.
The deal, which was completed after receiving regulatory approval, will see Irwin Mitchell invest in the Scottish law firm and paves the way for the two businesses to use their complementary skills to grow across the UK and internationally.
As part of the investment, partners from Irwin Mitchell (Bruce Macmillan, Craig Marshall and Mark Higgins) will join the new WJM management board to share best practices and ensure the two law firms are taking advantage of the opportunities to grow.
Irwin Mitchell Scotland, which operates out of Glasgow, predominantly offers services in banking and finance, and complex personal injury law. Meanwhile, WJM specialises in corporate, private client, property and asset management. Following the investment, the two law firms will provide a full-service offering across legal services, as well as financial planning in more than 20 locations across England, Scotland and Wales. Mark Higgins, managing partner at Irwin Mitchell Scotland, said: “Now that the deal is complete, we can accelerate our plans to grow our businesses and we’re looking forward to working together to maximise the opportunities both sides of the border for our clients.”
Adding to this, Fraser Gillies, managing partner at WJM, said: “Both law firms have a similar, collaborative culture, with clients at the heart of everything we do, and it’s been impressive to see the ideas and opportunities our colleagues have shared since the deal was announced back in September last year. We now begin the next chapter in our history, and we’re excited about what we can achieve together.”
WJM will continue to operate under its brand in Scotland for the immediate future.
The deal comes following M&A activity from both firms in the past year, with WJM acquiring Macandrew & Jenkins WS Ltd in Inverness and Irwin Mitchell acquiring Silk Family Law in the North East of England.
