Trowers to broaden out from public sector heritage in South West with Stones deal

Trowers & Hamlins is to merge with Devon-based law firm Stones Solicitors as part of a strategy to “broaden out from its social housing and public sector heritage” in the region.

The deal is due to go ahead on 1 October 2015. The combined firm will have nearly 800 people and a turnover of approximately £85m.

The firm will be known as Trowers & Hamlins incorporating Stones Solicitors in Exeter. Elsewhere it will be known as Trowers & Hamlins.

Jennie Gubbins, Trowers & Hamlins' senior partner, commented:  "This merger will allow us to build on the successes of our existing Exeter offering.  It positions us to grow our regional presence and reputation in the South West region and to build on our existing real estate offering there, in particular helping us to broaden out from our social housing and public sector heritage.

"In addition, for the first time, we will be able to offer corporate and private wealth expertise from a regional base, giving us the opportunity to expand our regional non-public sector practice and better service our clients."

Adrian Richards, Stones' Chief Executive Officer, said:  "This is a very exciting development for both our firms and we are looking forward to taking advantage of the opportunities this merger will provide for our clients, as well as our lawyers and staff.  This is very much about Trowers & Hamlins choosing us as a business partner, and it is a reflection of the high quality of our work and expertise, our reputation and our position in the market."