Both Addleshaw Goddard and HBJ Gateley have confirmed this morning (14 November) that they intend to merge. The deal would see the larger Addelshaws take over the smaller Scottish firm’s three offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen. News of the pending deal comes several months after the collapse of merger negotiations between Addleshaws and another Scottish firm, Maclay Murray & Spens. The confirmation also comes just days after HBJ Gateley announced that its longstanding relationship with English arm Gateley PLC would be wrapping up in May next year.

Building strength in finance and real estate

The deal is still subject to approval via a partnership vote at both firms. Last week, Addleshaws managing partner John Joyce laid out the details of the proposed merger during a videoconference with partners, and said that the tie-up would likely add £21m to Addleshaws’ top line. He commented last week: ‘A combination would deliver on both firms’ aspirations for improved client and sector offerings across the whole of Great Britain. We are culturally aligned and bringing both businesses together will enhance each firm’s bench strength, give greater flexibility and provide a more robust platform from which to establish stronger market positions across core practice areas and in the financial services and real estate sectors in particular.’ Partners are expected to vote on the deal later this week.

Sources: Legal Business; The Lawyer