Derby law firm Flint Bishop has exchanged contracts to acquire the entire business of Lupton Fawcett LLP, which has offices in Leeds, Sheffield, and York.
The transaction, due to complete at the end of September, represents a major milestone in Flint Bishop’s growth strategy.
The deal results in Flint Bishop acquiring the business and assets of a well-established Yorkshire-based law firm with complementary expertise, significantly enhancing its capabilities across commercial, employment, dispute resolution & litigation, property, and private client services, while also introducing new specialisms such as criminal & regulatory, ecclesiastical law, and intellectual property.
Upon completion, Flint Bishop will retain all three Lupton Fawcett offices, substantially expanding its footprint across the north of England. Combined with its headquarters in Derby and existing offices in Birmingham, Leeds, and Swansea, the firm will employ over 420 staff and is projected to generate annual turnover well in excess of £40 million.
The transaction follows Flint Bishop’s record-breaking financial year for 2024/25, which saw revenue growth of 53% year-on-year to £31.9 million.
Qamer Ghafoor, chief executive of Flint Bishop, said: “Our latest acquisition is a transformative step in our growth journey, enhancing our capabilities, broadening our geographic reach, and allowing us to deliver even greater value to our clients.
“Lupton Fawcett has a proud heritage and an outstanding reputation, and we look forward to welcoming our talented new colleagues in Leeds, Sheffield, and York, supporting them with exciting career and development opportunities.”
James Richardson, managing partner of Lupton Fawcett, said: “Joining Flint Bishop represents an exciting new chapter for both our people and our clients. The cultural alignment and shared commitment to excellence made this a natural fit.
“This move ensures continuity and stability for our existing clients, while creating considerable opportunities for growth in Yorkshire and across the wider north of England as part of a truly national law firm.”
Deal advisory services were provided by PKF Smith Cooper. David Nelson, transactions and advisory services partner, said: “We were delighted to provide Deal Advisory Services and support to Qamer Ghafoor and the Executive team at Flint Bishop on their recent acquisition of Lupton Fawcett.
“We wish Flint Bishop every success with the integration of the Lupton Fawcett team and clients and seeing the continued growth and success of the wider business as it continues to scale and enter new territories and markets nationally.”
