National law firm Clarke Willmott is ranked second in the South West for M&A deals in the first half of 2025, according to the latest market data.
The figures, from the latest Experian MarketIQ report on Mergers & Acquisitions activity, show the firm improved its UK-wide ranking from 20th to 18th, recording 32 deals overall, 19 of which were in the South West.
It comes as overall UK M&A activity slowed, with deal volumes down 16% compared to the same period last year, highlighting the firm’s resilience in a challenging market.
“Our ranking as second for legal deal activity in the South West reflects the dedication and expertise of our corporate team,” says Simon Thomas, partner and head of Clarke Willmott’s corporate team in Bristol
“Even as overall UK M&A activity slowed in first six months of 2025; this recognition demonstrates the team’s ability to support clients effectively in a dynamic and competitive market.
“We remain committed to delivering high-quality advice, supporting businesses as they pursue opportunities, and maintaining our strong regional presence across the South West.”
In June, Clarke Willmott’s strong performance in the region was recognised at the Insider South West Dealmakers Awards, where the firm won the ESG Deal of the Year for its involvement in the purchase of commercial farmland by Avon Needs Trees for the creation of a new 100,000-tree woodland.
The South West continues to play a key role in UK M&A, accounting for 9.9% of deal volume and 4.9% of total value; dealmaking kept pace with national trends in the first half of 2025, with 298 transactions completed, valued at £3.5 billion.
Across the region, acquisitions made up 76% of all deals and interest from US and Irish buyers stayed strong.
Technology, Media & Telecoms led the way in deal volume, with sectors such as manufacturing, professional services, and construction also seeing solid activity.
Experian’s MarketIQ report provides independent data and analysis on M&A activity across the UK and Ireland, including deal volumes, values, and adviser rankings.
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