Knights Expands with Birkett Long Acquisition
Deal News | May 06, 2025 | B Daily
Knights, a national professional services firm, has agreed to acquire Essex-based law firm Birkett Long in a transaction valued at £16.6 million. The deal, set to close by mid-June, will comprise an initial £10 million payment and an additional £6.6 million in deferred payments over three years. This acquisition is expected to boost Knights' revenues above £200 million, increase its workforce by approximately 90 lawyers and 10 financial advisers, and significantly enhance its presence in the Southeast of the UK through Birkett Long's offices in Basildon, Chelmsford, and Colchester. David Beech, CEO of Knights, highlighted that the acquisition aligns well with their strategic interest in wealth advisory services, while Birkett Long's managing partner Martin Hopkins noted the potential for expansion and broader service offerings under the larger Knights' umbrella. Birkett Long had reported revenues of £14.7 million as of May 31, 2024.
Sectors
- Legal Services
- Financial Advisory
Geography
- United Kingdom – Both Knights and Birkett Long are based in the UK, with Knights expanding its operations in the Southeast region with this acquisition.
Industry
- Legal Services – The acquisition directly involves Birkett Long, a law firm providing legal services to businesses and private clients.
- Financial Advisory – The acquisition includes Birkett Long's financial advisory arm, indicating an expansion into wealth and financial advisory services.
Financials
- £16.6 million – Total acquisition price for Birkett Long, including £10 million initial payment and £6.6 million deferred payments.
- £14.7 million – Birkett Long's reported revenues up to May 31, 2024.
- £200 million – Projected revenue for Knights post-acquisition.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Knights | Bidding Company | Company | A national professional services firm with a portfolio that includes law and financial advisory services. |
| Birkett Long | Target Company | Company | An Essex-based law firm with additional financial advisory services. |
| David Beech | CEO of Knights | Person | Chief Executive leading Knights' strategic expansion. |
| Martin Hopkins | Managing Partner of Birkett Long | Person | Oversees operations at Birkett Long and emphasized growth opportunities with the acquisition. |