The 'commercially astute' team at Geldards LLP is a popular choice among corporates and funds on both the buy and sell-side of M&A transactions. Within this context, as well as handling conventional private equity-backed and strategic M&A, the team has developed niche expertise handling Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) which continues to gain popularity as a means for SME business owners to divest their share in a business and to avoid capital gains tax (CGT) liability. Corporate head Andrew Morris is highly attuned to the needs of local businesses, both as a result of his fee-earning work for clients, including in the tech, healthcare and financial services, as well as through his role as a member of the Business Council of the Cardiff Capital Region which promotes the needs of businesses in South Wales. Alex Butler also remains a pivotal member of the team particularly in relation to private equity/venture capital-backed mandates, both on the sell side as well as for financial sponsors on their inward investment. Butler also continues to cultivate the firm's strong relationship with Development Bank of Wales, advising it on its internal fund structures as well as in connection with its investment activity. Chris Williams heads up the commercial offering, helping to service both private sector clients as well as the firm's impressive roster of public sector entities.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘They are experts in handling complex commercial matters but conversely are a pleasure to deal with on simple commercial matters, nothing is too much trouble.'
‘A good all-round practice with some highly experienced lawyers.’
‘They are commercially astute easy to work with and have a can do attitude. they also have depth and a broad multidisciplinary team to fall back on.’
'The team provides a strategic approach to problem-solving, negotiation is a significant strength helped by their ability to build relationships.'
'Andrew Morris is a stand out expert in his field. His reputation is impeccable and he leads his team from the front.'
‘Alex Butler is a pleasure to deal with, he has supported a number of complex equity transactions and ensured these completed simply and efficiently.'
'Justin Harrington has a great balance of legal advice and commercial knowledge to develop practical solutions.'
Key clients
- Admiral Group plc
- Travelzoo Inc
- Thomas Carroll Group
- John Bean Technologies Group
- Celsa Manufacturing Limited
- Business Growth Fund
- LDC International SAS
- Novomatic
- Sofa Brands International
- ITA Group, Inc
- Development Bank of Wales
- Personnel Hygiene Services Ltd
- Sport Wales
- Engagesport Ltd
- Anteo S.p.A.
Work highlights
- Advised Admiral Group plc on its exchange of contracts to purchase Luko Insurance, a French based insurance provider.
- Advised the Thomas Carroll Group on the acquisition of its share capital by a newly formed employee ownership trust.
- Advised French listed food producer LDC International on its acquisition of 20% shareholding in Capestone Organic Poultry, one of the largest producers of organic chickens and turkeys in the UK.
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.
Alex Butler
Geldards LLPPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Andrew Morris, Chris Williams