North-west based firm Jackson Canter has doubled in size after buying up regional rival Lees Solicitors.
QualitySolicitors member Jackson Canter currently have two officers in Liverpool City Centre and one in Manchester whilst 127 year old Lees have three on the Wirral peninsula, in Birkenhead, Heswall and West Kirby.
Jacson Canter now employ over 280 people across six sites. The purchase of Lees is the biggest acquisition the Jackson Canter have made, with the firm buying up Cope & Co last year.
Andrew Holroyd CBE, executive chairman at the Jackson Canter Group and former Law Society president said: “This is a momentous time for the firm – and there’s no doubt Lees was a natural choice to support our continued growth. The acquisition of Lees will enhance our network and ability to service even more individuals and businesses throughout the North West and beyond.
“The significant alignment and breadth of our services, together with a shared customer-centric culture, will enable us to ensure the highest levels of quality continue during this exciting period of expansion across the region.
“The new board boasts a potent combination of youth and experience, together with energy and expertise. This puts the firm in the strongest position yet to make a difference to individuals, businesses and society through the practice of law. We are wholly committed to becoming one of the North West’s largest and most respected firms.”
Joanna Kingston-Davies, COO of the Jackson Canter Group and former CEO of Lees, said: “Lees Solicitors has been serving the community for 127 years and we’re delighted to be starting this new chapter in our history with such a well-regarded and ambitious business. The Jackson Canter Group is a forward-thinking firm with an excellent reputation among individuals, businesses and the legal sector alike.”
The deal was structured by NatWest’s professional services and corporate finance teams, led by James Burgess.
James, director at NatWest structured finance, said: “We are delighted to support Jackson Canter on its latest business development, which complements the services already available to its wide client base. We look forward to supporting the enlarged business in achieving its growth plans.”
