Law firm expands footprint with acquisition of rival

A Solihull-based law firm has expanded its footprint by acquiring a rival practice in the region.

HCB Solicitors has expanded by acquiring Thomas Guise Solicitors with offices in Worcester, Studley and Birmingham City centre.

This latest acquisition represents HCB entering Worcestershire for the first time.

In April 2019, managing partner and owner of Thomas Guise, Wayne Thomas approached Ortus Group to advise on merger planning.

He said: “I believe that we can benefit from HCB’s scale and resources to further develop the business and very much look forward to working with them. I would also like to thank Colin White and his team at Ortus Group not only for introducing us to HCB but also for their professional support and guidance throughout the transaction.”

Managing director of Ortus Group, Colin White, said: “Thomas Guise is an excellent firm with a strong commercial practice that a number of other firms were interested in, but the way in which HCB responded to the opportunity showed very clearly from the very first meeting that they were the best option for Thomas Guise.

“I’m delighted for Wayne and believe the business and staff will be in very good hands under the new ownership structure”.

CEO of HCB, Mike Gahan said “We are delighted that Wayne and his team are joining HCB Solicitors and I’m sure they will be instrumental in helping Worcestershire to become an important region for our national business.

“This acquisition is the third deal HCB has completed with Ortus Group who were instrumental in not only bringing us together, but importantly, helping the deal over the line.”