Two regional law firms, Wilkin Chapman LLP and Rollits LLP, have announced they will merge on 1 April 2025 to create a new powerhouse in the legal sector, Wilkin Chapman Rollits.
With more than 500 people, including 70 partners, the merged firm will become the largest regional law firm operating across Lincolnshire and Yorkshire. It will be based across six offices in Grimsby, Lincoln, Louth, Hull, York and Beverley, and is expected to achieve a combined turnover of £40 million.
The merger, described as market and client driven, aims to enhance the strength and depth of legal services available across both the commercial and public sectors, as well as private client work. Importantly, there are no redundancies planned as part of the deal.
“There is a great synergy between the two firms across culture, values and strategy and we believe the new firm will provide our clients with the responsive, personal tailored support that they expect,” explained Robin Simmonds, CEO of Wilkin Chapman, “We have shared our plans with a number of strategic commercial clients of both firms in the lead-up to announcing the merger and are pleased that they are very supportive of the move.”
Ralph Gilbert, managing partner of Rollits, added, “Both of our firms have deep local connections and histories within our respective regions and are very proud of these links. Such links help us understand the needs of our clients and bring insights to them.”
Wilkin Chapman Rollits will offer expertise across a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, commercial property, food, energy and renewables, tourism and leisure, education, local government, the military, social housing and the third sector.
It’s been a while since Yorkshire Legal News reported on such a significant merger. Together, the firms bring a combined history of over 300 years to the newly-formed practice. The combined firm will continue to advise their regional clients with their needs, as well as clients based outside of their locations.
Pictured (L-R): Chris Grocock (Ssenior partner, Wilkin Chapman), Richard Field (senior partner, Rollits), Robin Simmonds (CEO, Wilkin Chapman), Ralph Gilbert (managing partner, Rollits)
Image provided by Wilkin Chapman Rollits
Josie Geistfeld
Josie Geistfeld is Editor of Yorkshire Legal News. She welcomes comments and questions.