Law firm advises on over half a billion pounds worth of deals in 2025

Mills & Reeve’s corporate team in the Midlands has advised on over half a billion pounds worth of deals in 2025.

The Birmingham corporate team has acted on 28 significant deals in the last 12 months with a combined deal value of over £650 million. Deal activity spanned various sectors, including healthcare, technology, agriculture, manufacturing, energy, logistics and food & beverage. 

More than half of deals (56 per cent) were cross-jurisdictional, including Europe, the United States, Australia and South Africa. 

Significant regional deals include advising on the sale of The Wilmott Group to Rehlko – a global leader in energy resilience, backed by funds from US PE House Platinum Equity. The Midlands corporate team advised the shareholders of the Nottingham-based company, which was sold for an undisclosed sum.

In addition, the team advised on the acquisition of specialist engineering company Ridgway Machines by Tokamak Energy – the UK’s leading fusion technology company. Mills & Reeve acted for Tokamak Energy on a deal that will accelerate the growth and manufacturing capabilities of its TE Magnetics business. 

Mills & Reeve also acted on the sale of the holding company of the Spaldings Group to Invicta Holdings – a JSE-listed conglomerate specialising in the wholesale and distribution of industrial consumables. The Mills & Reeve team acted for the sellers, Inspirit Capital and the management shareholders of the Lincoln-based company.

Junaid Haroon (pictured), head of corporate at Mills & Reeve in the Midlands, said: “It was a year of two halves for the team in 2025. In the first six months, we saw a positive number of deals being completed across the UK and in a variety of sectors.

"The second half of 2025 saw a slight dip in the volume of deals getting over the line, particularly in the lower mid-market. However, we were successful in securing a number of larger deals during that period, demonstrating that there is still an appetite for deal activity where the strategic ambitions of the investor and business align. 

“As we look ahead to 2026, our focus remains on supporting the region’s most dynamic and ambitious businesses through what continues to be an evolving economic landscape.

"With deep regional roots and strong sector expertise, we’re well positioned to guide clients through the next phase of growth and investment.

"We expect momentum to build as confidence returns to the market, and our experience across complex, cross‑border and high‑growth transactions means we’ll continue to be a trusted adviser to businesses and investors navigating the next wave of opportunities.”

Ryan Hawley, corporate partner said: “The Midlands is a robust regional economy, with ambitious and high potential businesses at the heart of its success. “Strategic growth is a clear priority from both a political and business perspective, with significant investment being committed to the region. By creating the right environment for future growth, the region will continue to attract investment from both domestic and international investors looking to scale at pace through M&A.”