Freeths LLP handles the full suite of corporate finance and transactional work on behalf of a diverse client roster ranging from SMEs and individual entrepreneurs to listed public companies. The group also offers deep sector expertise across healthcare, pharmaceuticals and life sciences, technology and software, automotive and transport, TMT, and hospitality and leisure. Managing partner in Milton Keynes, Jonathan Hambleton, leads the department and has considerable experience in M&A, MBOs, joint ventures and corporate restructuring with a particular focus on the hospitality industry. Gary Smith's robust practice continues to emphasise private company sales and acquisitions as well as private equity investments and MBOs. Natalie Drought is a key name for matters in the drinks, hospitality and leisure sectors, where she counsels key clients on complex transactions including solvent and insolvent M&A, restructuring and commercial contracts. James Cowell remains sought after for his experience on M&A, acquisition finance, and private equity transactions; he comes recommended as ‘very understanding’ and for always having ’the client at the centre of his thinking’.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Excellent team all round lead by James Cowell. They are thoughtful and understand the clients' needs.’
‘James Cowell is very understanding, responds on time and always has the client at the centre of his thinking.’
‘Freeths are able to demonstrate a perfect combination of diverse knowledge of industries/sectors, relevant legal or transactional experience within such sectors and a team of highly capable people to deliver a full offering of services across the legal landscape. As a result, engagement of Freeths offers any client complete reassurance that they will be well represented.’
‘The individuals with whom I've worked demonstrate high levels of knowledge and experience. Moreover, they provide huge reassurance to myself (as a fellow advisor) and most importantly to our common client. We have worked closely with Jonathan Hambleton and Gary Smith in Milton Keynes on a number of transactions over several years and they have always been highly valued by our respective clients, on many occasions retaining the services of Freeths post transaction for other matters.’
Key clients
- Centrica plc
- Travis Perkins Plc
- Sharps Bedrooms Limited
- DPD Group
- Wells & Co
- Shareholders of Evolve OOH Global Limited led by Robin Hall
- Olympian Homes Limited
- Pharmacy client inc Jardines & Imaan Healthcare
- RedCat Pub Company Limited
- AFI Group
- John and Julia Hoskins as the shareholders of Huntsbridge Limited
- CitySprint (UK) Limited
- Entrepôts et Transports Barbé (t/a Seafrigo)
- Shareholders of Fine Group Limited
- AWA Holdings Limited
- Great Eagle VCT (30T) Limited
- Gapuma Group Limited
- London Luton Airport
Work highlights
- Advising Centrica Energy Assets team on its acquisition of multiple energy projects.
- Acting for the shareholders of Evolve OOH Global Limited, a leading international 'out-of-home' advertising and media specialist, on the sale of the company to Talon Outdoor Group Limited.
- Acting for the shareholders on the sale of Wigan Warriors Rugby League club.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
James Cowell
Freeths LLPPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Jonathan Hambleton