Yorkshire law firm Gordons has passed a significant milestone in its service to B&M, advising the variety retailer on its 600th store opening.
Gordons commercial property partner Joanne Fearnley and solicitor James Kimberley advised on the acquisition of B&M’s 600th store in Tonbridge, Kent.
Fearnley (pictured) has been principal legal adviser to B&M on all property matters for 15 years. She has acquired all of its units across England and Wales during this period, meaning that she is among the most experienced lawyers in site acquisitions for retailers of this size in the UK.
Founded 40 years ago, Liverpool-based B&M sells a wide range of branded and own-label goods including toys, groceries, health and beauty, pet and DIY. The company employs more than 28,000 staff and attracts four million customers each week.
Earlier this year, B&M posted a 25.4% increase in pre-tax profit to £229.3 million, with revenue growing by 22.4% to £3 billion.
Praising the contribution of Gordons, Simon Arora, chief executive of B&M, said: “Gordons has shown time and again that they understand retail and our business in particular.”
“Joanne instinctively grasps what is, and what isn’t, important to us. She is practical, efficient and able to think and act entrepreneurially for B&M. She is a crucial part of our success story.”
In October, Gordons was appointed by B&M-owned discount convenience grocery brand Heron Foods. The firm now handles its UK-wide store acquisition programme.
Fearnley said: “We take great pride in having assisted B&M with the opening of so many stores and hope our association will continue through many more milestones of this kind. It is an outstandingly successful business and a great client to work with.”
“B&M is one of the UK’s quickest expanding retailers and demands legal services that are delivered accurately and quickly. Our long-established relationship with the company shows we know how to satisfy these needs, provide practical advice and negotiate highly acceptable terms.”
The firm’s retail sector clients also include AO World, Charles Tyrwhitt, Iceland Foods, Morrisons, Moss Bros, Nisa, The Original Factory Shop, Pavers, Pep & Co and Wren Kitchens.
