Cobbetts and Addleshaws toast success

TWO North West law firms are celebrating sector success in their corporate teams..

Manchester-based Cobbetts has been ranked the leading legal adviser to basic materials companies on AIM for the ninth consecutive quarter by Hemscott, the independent financial data provider.

The firm now holds three more clients than its closest rivals, Fasken Martineau and Watson, Farley & Williams.

Andrew Wright, head of public markets said: “To be ranked number one once again is testament to the ongoing dedication and quality of work of our team in the basic materials sector, which has travelled extensively to promote the benefits of AIM to international companies – regularly visiting countries such as Russia, China and South Africa. 

“Even as AIM continues to face keen competition from overseas junior markets such as Tokyo, Hong Kong and Singapore, and challenges as a result of the overall economic environment, we are experiencing a consistently high level of demand for our experience and expertise.”

Meanwhile Addleshaw Goddard is celebrating being named UK Private Equity Law Firm of the Year at the 2010 Unquote Private Equity Awards.

In a ceremony held in London last week, Addleshaws saw off competition from Clifford Chance, DLA Piper and Pinsent Masons.

Jim Tully, a partner in Addleshaw Goddard’s Manchester corporate team said: “In a difficult market we have not only maintained our level of deal activity, but also increased both the value of deals done and the number of new PE clients wanting to work with us.

“This award is fantastic recognition of that strong performance and our determination to continually take to clients new ideas and opportunities which deliver genuine value.”

Among the transactions Addleshaws advised on were Endless’ acquisition of Amdega and LDC’s £19.5m MBO of Ansa.