Knights on charge with Birkett Long takeover

A national professional services firm is expanding with a £16.6 million takeover.

Knights has agreed to buy Essex-based law firm Birkett Long.

Bosses say the deal will push revenues beyond £200 million and add around 90 lawyers and ten financial advisers to Knights’ 1250-strong workforce.

They add the agreement – which also includes Birkett Long’s financial advisory arm – will “significantly increase Knights’ presence in the South East” thanks to its bases in Basildon, Chelmsford and Colchester.

The deal, made up of an initial £10 million and £6.6 million in deferred payments over three years, is expected to be completed in mid-June.

David Beech, chief executive at Knights, whose office portfolio includes sites in Newcastle, Leeds, Birmingham, Nottingham and Oxford, said: “This strengthens our presence in the areas immediately surrounding London, and gives us an entry into wealth advisory, which has been of interest for some time.

“Birkett Long’s broad range of services for business and private clients, culture and operational model are an excellent fit, and we are confident the acquisition will provide a strong platform for growth.”

Martin Hopkins, managing partner of Birkett Long, which reported revenues of £14.7 million to May 31, 2024, said the agreement will deliver many expansion opportunities.

He added: “Being part of a business of scale will allow us to build on our track record by continuing to grow revenues across both the law firm and the financial advisory business, allowing us to provide a broader range of services to clients and even more career opportunities.

“We look forward to working closely with the team to offer a broader range of specialisms and to unlock significant opportunities in our market.”

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