With offices in Edinburgh and Glasgow, the merger with Biggart Baillie will further strengthen DWF’s presence across the UK, and the combined offering of highly experienced partners and sector specialisms will serve to enhance the firm’s exceptional client service.
Both DWF and Biggart Baillie have strong reputations for excellence in their respective specialist sectors, many of which – such as real estate, retail and energy and infrastructure - are aligned across both businesses. There are also several differing, yet complementary, sectors within each firm, which will enable them to offer clients a wider range of first rate services and products.
Andrew Leaitherland, managing partner at DWF, commented: “We have ambitious growth plans and are always looking for ways to enhance our offering for clients and strengthen our UK-wide presence. Similarly, Biggart Baillie was keen to continue to expand and provide increased services for its growing client base outside of Scotland. For a merger like this to truly succeed, it’s essential that you link with ‘like-minded’ businesses, and Biggart Baillie’s values driven approach and commitment to growth is a perfect fit with DWF.”
Alasdair Peacock at Biggart Baillie commented: “These are exciting times in a rapidly changing legal market. Competition is fierce and this merger will enhance our ability to continue to compete at the top end of the market on quality and sector expertise. DWF’s remarkable growth story is an obvious attraction and we are delighted to be part of that .The cultural fit is strong and our clients operating in Scotland and England will benefit from increased strength in depth, and also geographical coverage.”
The news of the merger with Biggart Baillie follows on from DWF’s announcement of its year end results, which saw net profit increase by over 20 per cent and revenue rise by 23 per cent, taking its turnover to £102 million for the year ending 2012.