England’s longest established cycle manufacturer has seen a dramatic surge in export sales to the USA of an exclusive retro bike originally manufactured in the 1930s.
Pashley of Stratford-upon-Avon produces hand-built bicycles using a team of 35 experienced craftsmen whose attention to detail has earned the brand its position as Britain’s most exclusive cycle manufacturer.
The new push into America is backed by accountants Horwath Clark Whitehill – Pashley’s business and tax adviser. Significantly it is an international firm that has offices all over the USA.
Pashley managing director Adrian Williams said: “Classic cycles are becoming very fashionable in the United States and our latest bike, the Guv’nor, is seeing an upturn in demand because of this. Although we sell worldwide, the North American market is growing the quickest, despite the economic downturn.”
“The Guv’nor is based on a model Pashley first produced in the 1930s when Path Racers were popular with the sportier cyclist. We dusted down the original 1930s company catalogues produced for the Path Racer so we could recapture the classic lines and dynamics of the top end bikes in that era.”
“We are selling them with a single speed gear or with the option of having a three-speed Sturmey-Archer gear and every one has a traditional Brooks leather saddle, still made in Smethwick.”
Pashley, in its drive for authenticity, also agreed a deal with Birmingham-based Reynolds Technology to bring back the legendary Reynolds '531' tube set used to make the frames on many successful Tour de France bicycles from around 1955 to 1975.
Horwath Clark Whitehill partner Ken Bartlett said: “Pashley and our firm share the ethos of representing the best of the old while embracing high technology at its leading edge.
“This push into the USA is not new for Pashley, they’ve been selling there for many years, but the new demand for classic cycles is exciting for Pashley as they are the only manufacturer of traditional cycles left in the UK. They stuck with what they do best and it is paying off.
“Another advantage is that Pashley operations can be underpinned and sustained by our network of offices there.”
Ken Bartlett’s original firm, TB Scattergood and Co, acted for William ‘Rath’ Pashley when he established the company in 1926.
Since that date, Pashley’s designs have enjoyed a reputation for both style and function.
It remained a family company until a management buyout in 1994 and is still privately owned.
Bicycles are built across the range to exacting standards from the exclusive classic traditional models to the new small wheeled, full suspension TSR series.
The range includes contemporary city and commuter bikes, stylish cruisers, and bicycles that hark back to the golden age of cycling in the 1920s and 1930s.
Pashley also supplies steel-framed work bikes and load carrier tricycles for industrial and commercial use, delivering post, packages, food or vital equipment, safely and economically.
The Guv’nor sells in the UK for £795.

England’s longest established cycle manufacturer has seen a dramatic surge in export sales to the USA of an exclusive retro bike originally manufactured in the 1930s.
Pashley of Stratford-upon-Avon produces hand-built bicycles using a team of 35 experienced craftsmen whose attention to detail has earned the brand its position as Britain’s most exclusive cycle manufacturer.
The new push into America is backed by accountants Horwath Clark Whitehill – Pashley’s business and tax adviser. Significantly it is an international firm that has offices all over the USA.
Pashley managing director Adrian Williams said: “Classic cycles are becoming very fashionable in the United States and our latest bike, the Guv’nor, is seeing an upturn in demand because of this. Although we sell worldwide, the North American market is growing the quickest, despite the economic downturn.”
“The Guv’nor is based on a model Pashley first produced in the 1930s when Path Racers were popular with the sportier cyclist. We dusted down the original 1930s company catalogues produced for the Path Racer so we could recapture the classic lines and dynamics of the top end bikes in that era.”
“We are selling them with a single speed gear or with the option of having a three-speed Sturmey-Archer gear and every one has a traditional Brooks leather saddle, still made in Smethwick.”
Pashley, in its drive for authenticity, also agreed a deal with Birmingham-based Reynolds Technology to bring back the legendary Reynolds '531' tube set used to make the frames on many successful Tour de France bicycles from around 1955 to 1975.
Horwath Clark Whitehill partner Ken Bartlett said: “Pashley and our firm share the ethos of representing the best of the old while embracing high technology at its leading edge.
“This push into the USA is not new for Pashley, they’ve been selling there for many years, but the new demand for classic cycles is exciting for Pashley as they are the only manufacturer of traditional cycles left in the UK. They stuck with what they do best and it is paying off.
“Another advantage is that Pashley operations can be underpinned and sustained by our network of offices there.”
Ken Bartlett’s original firm, TB Scattergood and Co, acted for William ‘Rath’ Pashley when he established the company in 1926.
Since that date, Pashley’s designs have enjoyed a reputation for both style and function.
It remained a family company until a management buyout in 1994 and is still privately owned.
Bicycles are built across the range to exacting standards from the exclusive classic traditional models to the new small wheeled, full suspension TSR series.
The range includes contemporary city and commuter bikes, stylish cruisers, and bicycles that hark back to the golden age of cycling in the 1920s and 1930s.
Pashley also supplies steel-framed work bikes and load carrier tricycles for industrial and commercial use, delivering post, packages, food or vital equipment, safely and economically.
The Guv’nor sells in the UK for £795.

Press Release from the Institute of Directors West Midlands



The Hereford and Worcester branch of the Institute of Directors has received an invitation for a small group of members to tour the Morgan factory in Malvern to meet the craftsmen who hand-build the classic sports car.



The 20 IoD members will meet at the Morgan Motor Co, Pickersleigh Road, at 2.30pm on the afternoon of Tuesday, April 29, for a tour lasting three hours.



IoD regional director John Phillips said: “This is a long-standing family business that has coped with changes in generation and legislation and still continues to produce its classic vehicles alongside the modern designs to attract a new generation of Morgan owners.”



The guests will meet at Morgan Reception for a tour of the factory and this will be followed by a short presentation by the directors on “Morgan in 2008 and in the future” – including the LifeCar and other developments.



Ex-public schoolboy and rector’s son H.F.S Morgan began manufacturing his cars in 1910 in Malvern and two of the cars made a first appearance at the Olympia Motor Show in 1910. Both were single seat three wheelers, fitted with JAP engines.



It soon became apparent that the Morgan would have to become a two-seater vehicle if it was to become universally popular. The company never looked back after that, appealing and thrilling successive generations of sports car drivers.



Ends (231 words)



For further information, please contact:



John Phillips,

Regional Director, Institute of Directors, West Midlands, 1 Victoria Square, Birmingham

0121 632 2300 - mobile – 07703 355 891.



Prepared and issued by Dale le Vack of ASAP - 01527 892004, mobile - 07990 978257.



Notes to editors



• With just under 3000 Members the West Midlands Region of the Institute of Directors (IoD) has its base at One Victoria Square but is a regional organisation and operates through a number of enthusiastic committees:



• The IoD was founded in 1903 and obtained a Royal Charter in 1906. The IoD is a non-party political organisation with upwards of 52,000 members in the United Kingdom and overseas. Membership includes directors from right across the business spectrum – from media to manufacturing, e-business to the public and voluntary sectors. Members include CEOs of large corporations as well as entrepreneurial directors of start-up companies.





• The IoD offers a wide range of business services which include business centre facilities (including ten UK regional centres [three in London, Reading, Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester, Nottingham, Edinburgh and Belfast] and one each in Paris and Brussels), conferences, networking events, issues-led guides and literature, as well as free access to business information and advisory services and a comprehensive Information Centre. The IoD places great emphasis on director development and has established a certified qualification for directors - Chartered Director - as well as running specific board-level and director-level training and individual career mentoring programmes.



• In addition, the IoD provides an effective voice to represent the interests of its members to government and key opinion-formers at the highest levels. These include ministers, constituency MPs, Select Committee members and senior civil servants. IoD policies and views are actively promoted to the national, regional and trade media.



• For further information, visit our website: www.iod.com

Press Release from the Institute of Directors West Midlands


The Young Directors Forum of the Institute of Directors is to stage a series of four evening workshops for managers of businesses involved in international trade on Tuesday, May 20, at the IoD Hub in Birmingham



The first session, running from 6–8pm, will examine doing business in India, and the local Indian economy here in the Midlands.



John Phillips, regional director of the Institute of Directors in the West Midlands, said: “An increasing number of West Midlands’ businesses are involved in international trade and the challenge of cross-cultural differences can be a daunting proposition.



“Our four workshops will look closely at global awareness and readiness, and equip members with easy to implement tools to analyse and address the challenges that may await them in key developing economies.”



The sessions will be run by Elly Tobin, director of the College for International Citizenship in Birmingham, and David Ruthven-Stuart, an experienced international businessman and sportsman.



Mr Phillips added: “While we hope attendees will be interested in attending each workshop in this series, each session will be presented as a stand-alone workshop for those who are only interested in one area.”



He said further sessions on other leading economies were planned for later in 2008.



Ends (204 words)



For further information, please contact:



John Phillips,

Regional Director, Institute of Directors, West Midlands, 1 Victoria Square, Birmingham

0121 632 2300 - mobile – 07703 355 891.



Prepared and issued by Dale le Vack of ASAP - 01527 892004, mobile - 07990 978257.



Notes to editors



• With just under 3000 Members the West Midlands Region of the Institute of Directors (IoD) has its base at One Victoria Square but is a regional organisation and operates through a number of enthusiastic committees:



• The IoD was founded in 1903 and obtained a Royal Charter in 1906. The IoD is a non-party political organisation with upwards of 52,000 members in the United Kingdom and overseas. Membership includes directors from right across the business spectrum – from media to manufacturing, e-business to the public and voluntary sectors. Members include CEOs of large corporations as well as entrepreneurial directors of start-up companies.





• The IoD offers a wide range of business services which include business centre facilities (including ten UK regional centres [three in London, Reading, Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester, Nottingham, Edinburgh and Belfast] and one each in Paris and Brussels), conferences, networking events, issues-led guides and literature, as well as free access to business information and advisory services and a comprehensive Information Centre. The IoD places great emphasis on director development and has established a certified qualification for directors - Chartered Director - as well as running specific board-level and director-level training and individual career mentoring programmes.



• In addition, the IoD provides an effective voice to represent the interests of its members to government and key opinion-formers at the highest levels. These include ministers, constituency MPs, Select Committee members and senior civil servants. IoD policies and views are actively promoted to the national, regional and trade media.



• For further information, visit our website: www.iod.com

Press Release from the Institute of Directors West Midlands



Business leaders in the West Midlands are to get the opportunity to participate in the regional transport debate at a special evening seminar in Birmingham in May organised by the Institute of Directors.



Three key speakers will lead the debate at the seminar with interactive presentations.



It will take place on Tuesday, May 13, at Yorkshire Bank, Temple Row, Birmingham, starting at 6pm, followed by an open discussion with the audience.



John Phillips, regional director of the Institute of Directors in the West Midlands, said: “The West Midlands Region has faced up to many of the issues surrounding congestion, and our current transport infrastructure.



“Some of the major problems, including New Street Station and the extension to Birmingham Airport’s runway giving global reach, have been addressed.



“However, there is still much to do in solving congestion and protecting our quality of life if we are to remain globally competitive.”



Mr Phillips said that members of the IoD would be encouraged to share experiences and opinions in an open discussion following the three presentations.



The speakers will be John Morris, head of communications, Birmingham Airport, Jerry Blackett, chief executive of Birmingham Chambers of Industry and Commerce, and Peter Patterson, a leading economist and a member of the IoD.



Ends (206 words)



For further information, please contact:



John Phillips,

Regional Director, Institute of Directors, West Midlands, 1 Victoria Square, Birmingham

0121 632 2300 - mobile – 07703 355 891.



Prepared and issued by Dale le Vack of ASAP - 01527 892004, mobile - 07990 978257.



Notes to editors


· With just under 3000 Members the West Midlands Region of the Institute of Directors (IoD) has its base at One Victoria Square but is a regional organisation and operates through a number of enthusiastic committees:



· The IoD was founded in 1903 and obtained a Royal Charter in 1906. The IoD is a non-party political organisation with upwards of 52,000 members in the United Kingdom and overseas. Membership includes directors from right across the business spectrum – from media to manufacturing, e-business to the public and voluntary sectors. Members include CEOs of large corporations as well as entrepreneurial directors of start-up companies.





· The IoD offers a wide range of business services which include business centre facilities (including ten UK regional centres [three in London, Reading, Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester, Nottingham, Edinburgh and Belfast] and one each in Paris and Brussels), conferences, networking events, issues-led guides and literature, as well as free access to business information and advisory services and a comprehensive Information Centre. The IoD places great emphasis on director development and has established a certified qualification for directors - Chartered Director - as well as running specific board-level and director-level training and individual career mentoring programmes.



· In addition, the IoD provides an effective voice to represent the interests of its members to government and key opinion-formers at the highest levels. These include ministers, constituency MPs, Select Committee members and senior civil servants. IoD policies and views are actively promoted to the national, regional and trade media.



· For further information, visit our website: www.iod.com

Press Release from the Institute of Directors West Midlands



The guest speaker for the West Midlands Institute of Directors’ Spring Lecture will be Lord Dearing – a public figure recognised for having been influential in shaping education policy in the United Kingdom.



The lecture will be delivered on Thursday, May 15 at Warwickshire County Cricket Ground in Edgbaston and the event will run from 7pm until 8.15pm.



The speaker was also the author of the famous Dearing Report on higher education and he was later the fifth Chancellor of the University of Nottingham.



Lord Dearing also spent a distinguished business career as a former chairman and chief executive of the Post Office.



John Phillips, regional director of the IoD said: “Business education links and skills issues are of particular interest to members of the IoD in the West Midlands.



“We are therefore delighted to announce that Lord Dearing has agreed to address our members on this subject.



“He is an active “cross bencher” in the House of Lords who speaks on a variety of subjects from education to climate change.”



Ends (169 words)



For further information, please contact:



John Phillips,

Regional Director, Institute of Directors, West Midlands, 1 Victoria Square, Birmingham

0121 632 2300 - mobile – 07703 355 891.



Prepared and issued by Dale le Vack of ASAP - 01527 892004, mobile - 07990 978257.



Notes to editors



• With just under 3000 Members the West Midlands Region of the Institute of Directors (IoD) has its base at One Victoria Square but is a regional organisation and operates through a number of enthusiastic committees:



• The IoD was founded in 1903 and obtained a Royal Charter in 1906. The IoD is a non-party political organisation with upwards of 52,000 members in the United Kingdom and overseas. Membership includes directors from right across the business spectrum – from media to manufacturing, e-business to the public and voluntary sectors. Members include CEOs of large corporations as well as entrepreneurial directors of start-up companies.





• The IoD offers a wide range of business services which include business centre facilities (including ten UK regional centres [three in London, Reading, Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester, Nottingham, Edinburgh and Belfast] and one each in Paris and Brussels), conferences, networking events, issues-led guides and literature, as well as free access to business information and advisory services and a comprehensive Information Centre. The IoD places great emphasis on director development and has established a certified qualification for directors - Chartered Director - as well as running specific board-level and director-level training and individual career mentoring programmes.



• In addition, the IoD provides an effective voice to represent the interests of its members to government and key opinion-formers at the highest levels. These include ministers, constituency MPs, Select Committee members and senior civil servants. IoD policies and views are actively promoted to the national, regional and trade media.



• For further information, visit our website: www.iod.com

Picture Caption: Lodders lawyer Helen Gough, a specialist in agricultural law and rural affairs.



Ends



Press release from Lodders Solicitors LLP



Farming and rural affairs lawyer Helen Gough of Lodders in Stratford-upon-Avon is playing a leading role within the Agricultural Law Association to develop a new generation of professional advisers.



Miss Gough, along with James Leyland of Wright Hassall, Leamington, is the key organiser of a seminar on Thursday, April 17 at Warwickshire Golf & Country Club, Leek Wootton.



Many young professionals from several disciplines are expected to attend the seminar, sponsored by Lodders and Wright Hassall, to discuss a raft of topical agricultural and rural issues.



Miss Gough said: “ALA: The Next Generation regularly holds seminars like the one we will be holding in Warwickshire in other parts of the country.



“ALA’s objective is to promote the knowledge and understanding of rural law and practice and our project is part of that wider programme. Also, by encouraging younger members, ALA:TNG will enable them to adopt positions of greater influence and responsibility in their field of work.”



The ALA, which has more than 1,100 members, is Britain’s premier independent cross-disciplinary organisation in rural business with some of the leading practitioners in the UK and Europe.



The ALA’s Consultant and Adviser Geoff Whittaker said: “For more than 30 years, ALA has provided a forum for professional advisers in agriculture – lawyers, surveyors, accountants, bankers, farm business consultants and others – to support each other in this particularly esoteric field.

“The Next Generation caters for those with less experience and not only provides them with focused continuing professional development but gives them the chance to meet and mingle with each other to discuss their common interests, which modern pressures and systems of working don’t always allow.”



The ALA is consulted by government on legislative and policy changes and, by maintaining its non-party political stance, provides impartial practical comment on proposed measures.



It is also affiliated to the CEDR – the French acronym for the European Council for Rural Law – which is a body recognised on rural law by the European Commission.



If you are a professional involved in rural business and want to know more about how to join ALA, please e-mail Geoff Whittaker at enquiries@ala.org.uk or telephone (01206)383521.



Ends (353 words)



For further information contact

Helen Gough

Lodders Solicitors LLP, Number Ten, Elm Court, Arden Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6PA

Tel: 01789 293259



Prepared and issued by Dale le Vack of ASAP PR, 01527 892004, or mobile 07972506170



Notes to Editors:



Lodders Solicitors LLP is an established firm of solicitors based in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire. We offer specialist advice to individuals and businesses. Private client work has formed the core of our business for 150 years and remains the common thread of our other main areas of work: property, business and agriculture. We aim to combine technical ingenuity and thoughtful advice with a pragmatic approach to problem solving.

Picture caption: Pat Moore, chairman of Horwath Clark Whitehill in the Midlands, with Richard Baker and fellow partner Johnathan (CORRECT) Dudley.



ends



Press Release from Horwath Clark Whitehill LLP



Midlands accountants and business advisers Horwath Clark Whitehill have promoted a 29-year-old audit manager based in Walsall to partner only ten years after he joined the firm with a clutch of A levels.



A former pupil of Cardinal Wiseman Roman Catholic School, Kingstanding, and

a student at Sutton Coldfield College, Richard Baker attributes his meteoric rise within the firm’s audit department to “a willingness to understand how people and business work.



“I am very proud to have achieved partner status so quickly and am looking forward to the challenges ahead of me".



Mr Baker, who has specialist knowledge of the retail pharmacy and care home sector will specialise in these disciplines together with target corporate clients, has also been a key member of the firm’s National Audit and Accounting Technical Department for the past five years.



He joined Horwath Clark Whitehill’s Walsall office at 19 and qualified as a chartered accountant when he was 23-years-old. He was then appointed a manager in the audit department.



His appointment will take effect from April when he will join the team of partners at Horwath Clark Whitehill who service clients in the Midlands from offices in Kidderminster and Walsall.



Pat Moore, chairman of the Midlands practice, said: “Horwath Clark

Whitehill is a national practice with all the technical support our clients need both nationally and internationally, but as a firm we remain very close to our local roots.



“We are committed to recruiting the best available staff and invest heavily in young talent and training our staff both in technical, management and people skills.



“The rise of a dedicated young man like Richard Baker to partner in just ten years is another positive indication of how well those people investment policies are working. Richard will be a valuable addition to the practice."



“We will continue to promote people like Richard from within, but are also keen to add new talent to our highly skilled team, as can be seen for the recent recruitment of Denis Holly as Midlands VAT Director.”



Mr Baker is a season ticket holder at West Bromwich Albion, and is married to Gemma, a primary school teacher.



Ends (357 words)



For further information, please contact:



Miriam Sherwood - Marketing Manager

Horwath Clark Whitehill LLP, Foley House, 123 Stourport Road, Kidderminster, Worcestershire DY11 7BW



Tel: 01562 60101



For further information, please contact:



Prepared and issued by Dale le Vack of ASAP PR, 01527 892004, or mobile, 07972 506170.



Notes to editors



Horwath Clark Whitehill is a leading national provider of accounting and business advice. The firm offers specialist and technical expertise to owner-managed businesses and larger corporates, not-for-profit organisations, pension funds, professional practices and private clients.



Horwath Clark Whitehill has over 60 partners and around 500 staff based in 8 offices in the UK.



Worldwide, Horwath Clark Whitehill is the UK member of Horwath International. As one of the largest global professional service organisations, Horwath International has more than 120 independent member firms operating from 430 offices around the world.



For more information visit our website at www.horwathcw.com.



This information is published without responsibility on our part for loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of any information published herein. © Horwath Clark Whitehill LLP - 2007.

Press Release from MFG Solicitors LLP



Buyers planning to bid for agricultural land at auction should always seek legal advice before doing so - according to law firm MFG Solicitors.



Auctions have been a traditional way to buy and sell farming land but agricultural law specialists MFG Solicitors warn that the demand for land, bureaucracy, and a climate of increasing litigation now puts bidders at risk.



MFG rural business solicitor Tom Devey warned: “Bidders must be sure of exactly what they are committing themselves to buy.



“When the gavel falls for the final time, the buyer is usually bound to pay a ten per cent deposit immediately and the balance within 28 days.



“The successful bidder will lose his or her deposit on failing to clear the balance on time, and may be liable under breach of contract for other consequential losses the seller has sustained.”



He added: “Claiming ignorance of the contractual provisions is no escape.”



Mr Devey referred to a common misconception that the solicitor acting for the vendor would be available to answer queries before the auction started.



He said the seller’s solicitor had no duty of care to a purchaser, was not insured to advise anybody other than his client, and was present to protect the seller’s interests.



Mr Devey said: “The seller’s solicitor may also lack knowledge of the position regarding Single Farm Payment Entitlements or the terms of any environmental schemes to which the land may be subject.”



The vendor’s solicitor would not be obliged, for example, to explain the details of provisions restricting the future development of the land - which might be hiding in the small print of the contract.



Mr Devey urged prospective bidders to obtain a copy of the auction package, which the seller had to make available before the auction and which was usually available from the agents conducting the auction.



It should contain information on the legal title of the property being sold, a copy of the contract, searches and replies to any pertinent enquiries.



He concluded: “It is good business sense to seek advice from a solicitor with knowledge of rural and agricultural issues before you raise your hand in the air. Be warned!”



Ends (356 words)



For further information please contact:

Tom Devey, Solicitor,

MFG Solicitors, Edgbaston House Walker Street Wellington Telford Shropshire TF1 1HF



01952 641651



Editor’s Notes



A major regional law firm, MFG Solicitors LLP has offices in Halesowen, Telford, Worcester, Bromsgrove, Kidderminster, Wellington, Stourport-on-Severn, Bewdley, Cleobury Mortimer and Oswestry.



Produced and issued by Dale le Vack of ASAP PR Ltd, 01527 892004 or 07972 506170

Press Release from DLA Piper LLP



Tough market conditions could mean competitors trying to take advantage of inadequately protected intellectual property rights, according to IP experts in the Birmingham office of global law firm DLA Piper.



Partner Marie McMorrow who leads the Midlands’ technology, media and commercial team said: “Intellectual property is perhaps one of the most valuable business assets that your company owns.



“IP includes the property of your mind or intellect and in commercial terms can also include your proprietary knowledge.



“Your IP may be in your unique design, formula, invention, process or system and IP often represents the principal competitive advantage a business has in order to stay ahead of its competition.



“This makes protecting your IP absolutely essential.”



In law, ownership of IP rights is the legal recognition of creative effort. It gives the owner the right to exploit fully these IP rights to own, sell, license or bequeath just as though it was a more tangible asset such as bricks and mortar.



Types of IP rights include patents, trade marks, design, copyright, confidentiality and trade secrets.



Marie McMorrow said: “It is important to remember that registering your IP rights in this country does not give you automatic protection in export markets. There are international agreements in place which make it easier to obtain rights in other countries, but be aware that it is a costly and time consuming process.

“If you tell someone about your ideas before seeking appropriate protection, or sell unpatented products, your competitors can use them. Your products will no longer be considered new so you will be unable to obtain a patent. Nor will you be able to protect your products from being copied.”

This becomes tricky when companies need to know whether someone else owns the right to an idea already.

And where the IP issue involves a joint venture it is essential to set out from the out set who owns the IP in each and every case.

“If you are seeking to license the manufacturing of your product in a number of markets, you should ensure that your IP is protected and is not in the public domain in these markets. Check that you have not only obtained protection but also that it has not expired. Different countries have different rules so choose advisers who have global reach and experience of the systems in your target markets,” said Mrs McMorrow.

“And finally, in all the excitement of your new invention, check that your name or trademark does not have unfortunate connotations in a particular market. The internet is full of apocryphal tales of this kind but Fiat once had to rename its “Uno” model before introducing it into Finland.

“Uno means ‘garbage’ in Finnish – and that’s probably not the best launch pad for your new product in that part of the world!”

Ends (467 words)



For further information, please contact:

Marie McMorrow, Partner, Technology, Media & Commercial,

DLA Piper LLP, Victoria Square House, Victoria Square, Birmingham B2 4DL


08700 111 111



Prepared and issued by Andy Skinner of ASAP, 01527 892004. Mobile, 07990 978257.



Notes to editors:



1. DLA Piper is the largest global legal services organisation in the world with over 3,700 lawyers across 64 offices and 25 countries. From its offices across Asia, Europe, the Middle East and the United States, legal and business advisers provide a range of services to local, regional and international businesses.



2. For further information about our organisation and services, please visit our website: www.dlapiper.com

Press Release from DLA Piper LLP



Nearly one in 12 quoted companies has considered shopping around for a better deal on a different stock exchange, according to a report issued by global law firm DLA Piper which has its Midlands office in Birmingham.



Corporate and commercial partner Charles Cook said the DLA Piper International Capital Markets Survey indicated that there was likely to be fierce competition between international stock exchanges over the next few years.



The research was conducted among publicly quoted companies listed on eight key international stock exchanges – New York, NASDAQ, London’s main market and AIM, Euronext and exchanges in Germany, Hong Kong and Australia.



In the report nearly one in 12 companies admitted to having considered over the past three years whether their business’s needs and aspirations might be better served on a different market.



The survey was commissioned by DLA Piper to help understand the rationale behind different capital market strategies and highlight key trends within international capital markets from the perspectives of both corporates and investment banks.



DLA Piper partner John Campion commented: “The findings reveal that individual exchanges are perceived by listed companies to have their own particular strengths and weaknesses. Unsurprisingly, access to capital and institutions receives the highest ranking in both the US and on the London main market.”



However, for Euronext, it was “company profile” that generated the highest rating, while at the opposite end of the spectrum, “valuation” was of the highest concern in Australia and “liquidity” for the UK’s AIM-listed companies.



Charles Cook said: “Our findings highlight the importance to any company of giving careful consideration to its intended stock exchange and then reviewing the benefits of its listing on a regular basis.



“The feeling amongst investment bankers is that there has been increasing thought given by their clients to moving their primary listing to other exchanges, and we believe this trend will continue as businesses become increasingly global and as individual stock exchanges implement more active marketing strategies.”



The survey also highlights that many listed companies see the increasing influence of the private equity sector and hedge funds on the debt and equity markets as broadly positive.



John Campion said: “Our findings underline how much the capital markets landscape is increasingly being shaped by private equity strategies and hedge funds.



“Over the past three years the interest from corporates in accessing a new pool of capital via private equity and hedge fund investment has increased significantly, and notwithstanding the current economic climate, we expect to see this interest continue.



“The components and participants of capital markets are increasingly diverse, with the markets having become ever more accessible to a wide range of companies, regardless of their size.



“Our findings show that the world's key international stock exchanges each have their own individual strengths and, as a consequence of this, they suit different companies, according to their stage of development or specific business sector.



“If businesses are to exploit fully this diverse choice of stock exchanges they must ensure that they take into account every aspect of a market and select the one that best suits their particular company's business objectives and future aspirations.”



Ends (519 words)



For further information, please contact:

Charles Cook, Partner

or

John Campion, Partner,

DLA Piper LLP, Victoria Square House, Victoria Square, Birmingham B2 4DL


08700 111 111



Prepared and issued by Andy Skinner of ASAP, 01527 892004. Mobile, 07990 978257.



Notes to editors:



1. DLA Piper is the largest global legal services organisation in the world with over 3,600 lawyers across 64 offices and 25 countries. From its offices across Asia, Europe, the Middle East and the United States, legal and business advisers provide a range of services to local, regional and international businesses.



2. The corporate group has 262 partners and over 569 lawyers globally. Its expertise covers all types of transactional and advisory work including mergers, acquisitions and disposals, flotations, issues of securities, fundraisings, private equity financing and buyouts, corporate tax and employee incentive arrangements. In 2007, DLA Piper's Corporate Group ranked number one for volume of M&A deals in the UK, fifth in Europe and number three for volume of M&A deals globally (source: mergermarket).



3. For further information about our organisation and services, please visit our website: www.dlapiper.com

Press Release from MFG Solicitors LLP


Soaring farm land prices are set to continue despite the slowdown in the commercial and housing sectors, according to agricultural experts at MFG Solicitors.

Agricultural and rural affairs partner Iain Morrison believes that a reported slowdown in land investment by so called “lifestyle buyers” - worried about shrinking city bonuses - will not affect a buoyant market in the long term.



He said: “In most regions demand outstrips supply, and there is increasing interest from countries like Ireland and Denmark where prices in most areas of the United Kingdom compare favourably.”

Demand from so-called “lifestyle buyers” for farmland is falling according to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, even though the surge in commodities prices has seen values for workable farmland rocket to record levels.

In recent years the new rich industrial class, including affluent city workers using their bonuses, have invested heavily in farmland.

The “lifestyle buyers” appear to have slowed down their buying spree because of the economic slowdown according to the new report.

It says farmland prices rose by almost 28 per cent in the second half of last year, but slowed to 22.6 per cent in the first half of 2007.

Mr Morrison believes the continued growth of agricultural land values is expected due to the relatively short supply of farmland combined with the growing purchaser profile

Recent reports, he said, indicated it was the grassland sector which had seen the most growth where increases of 41 per cent and 63 per cent were recorded last year in some areas for medium and poor quality pasture respectively.

He added: “Despite the slight downturn, I believe so-called ‘Lifestyle Buyers’ will continue to generate strong demand for such land, with many looking to buy farms located in picturesque locations.”

According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors “Lifestyle buyers” have accounted for as much as 40 per cent of all purchasers in recent years, however this reduced to 30 per cent during 2006 following increased competition.

The average price of arable land rose to £10,949 per hectare, from £9,929 in the first half of 2007, breaking the £10,000 per hectare barrier for the first time in the survey’s 13-year history.



Ends (362 words)



For further information please contact:



Iain Morrison, Partner, Head of Agriculture and Rural Affairs

MFG Solicitors LLP, 20-21 The Tything, Worcester, WR1 1HD



01905 610410



Editors’ Notes



A major regional law firm, MFG Solicitors LLP has offices in Halesowen, Telford, Worcester, Bromsgrove, Kidderminster, Wellington, Stourport-on-Severn, Bewdley, Cleobury Mortimer and Oswestry.



Prepared and issued by Dale le Vack, of ASAP. Tel: 01527 892004 (office), 07972506170 (mobile)

Press Release from PKF (UK) LLP



VAT experts at accountants and business advisers PKF in Birmingham say the decision to withdraw the staff hire concession from April 1, 2009, could see businesses paying up to 500 per cent more VAT to hire temporary staff.



The concession allows the employment bureaux supplying temporary staff to charge clients VAT only on the margin made, allowing the wages element of the fee to be free of VAT, as long as the client was responsible for paying the temporary staff direct.



Tony Bartle, PKF’s senior VAT manager in Birmingham, said: “This is very bad news for a large number of businesses which are unable to reclaim all their VAT, for example banks, insurers, nursing homes, private hospitals, private schools and colleges, universities and charities.



“The Government says that it is giving 12 months’ notice of the change to allow businesses to prepare for it, but it is hard to see what can be done to avoid the costs. The only way around this would be to employ temporary staff directly, but the employment law costs involved in doing this are such that most will prefer to take the VAT hit instead.



“The Government has estimated that the concession currently saves UK businesses and NGOs some £255million in total. I think this is an underestimate and some businesses could see a 500 per cent rise in the costs of hiring temporary staff.”



Ends (191 words)



For further information, please contact:

Tony Bartle, Senior VAT manager,

PKF (UK) LLP, New Guild House, 45 Great Charles Street, Queensway,
Birmingham B3 2LX
0121 212 2222

Prepared and issued by Andy Skinner of ASAP - 01527 892004, mobile - 07990
978257.

Notes to Editors:

1. PKF is a leading firm of accountants and business advisers with more than 1,800 partners and staff operating in 23 offices in the UK mainland firm, a wholly-owned financial planning company and associated offshore practices. The firm specialises in advising growing and entrepreneurial/owner-managed businesses, AIM and fully listed companies, and also has extensive experience in the public and not-for-profit sectors. Principal services include assurance and advisory; taxation; consultancy; corporate recovery and insolvency; corporate finance and forensic. The firm has particular expertise in advising sectors such as hotels and leisure; mining and resource; public sector; real estate and construction; professional practices; not-for-profit; and medical. The firm’s web site is www.pkf.co.uk.



2. PKF (UK) LLP also offers financial services through its FSA authorised company, PKF Financial Planning Limited. PKF (Isle of Man) LLC is a limited liability company registered in the Isle of Man. PKF (Guernsey) Limited is incorporated in Guernsey.



3. PKF (UK) LLP is a member of PKF International which is an association of legally independent firms with more than 14,650 people operating in 119 countries around the world.

Press Release from Institute of Directors



A scheme to encourage Coventry’s young entrepreneurs to invest in the future regeneration of the city has been described as a “wonderful initiative” by Sir John Egan, the Chancellor of Coventry University.



Sir John was speaking at the “Coventry Means Business” awards evening held last week in the historic surroundings of St. Mary’s Hall.



It was organised by the Institute of Directors for Coventry and Warwickshire and Coventry University.



A year ago the two organisations created the first mentoring scheme in the UK pairing business leaders with aspiring young entrepreneurs.



Sir John said it would encourage young entrepreneurs to keep their business in Coventry.



Stephen Kingswell, IoD (Coventry and Warwickshire) and Chairman of the Coventry University development committee said: “Without the time, effort and experience of the 30 company directors who acted as mentors, the initiative would not have taken off as quickly as it has.



He added: “Throughout the year the mentors delivered one-to-one guest master class presentations, and have been on hand via emails and phone calls.”



The student “mentees” provided an award for the best mentor, which went to Sherod Williams, Managing Partner at Walker Thompson Accountants.



Mr Williams said: “We have all worked hard to get people engaged in the programme so I would like to share this award with my fellow mentors.



“The most amazing thing about this initiative is that it has not just been a learning curve for the students; we have all gained from this experience.”



Representatives from business, commerce, education and local government attended the awards ceremony which it is hoped will become an annual event.



Phil Cornwall, IoD Coventry & Warwickshire Chairman added: “Having a vision is one thing, but making it happen is another.



“The difference comes from those individuals who are prepared to give their valuable time to ensure Coventry Means Business”.



The Vice Chancellor of Coventry University, Professor Madeleine Atkins said: “This initiative is, I believe, unique and other universities and IoD branches throughout the UK are looking to adopt it.



“The scheme is ideal for encouraging a new generation who seek to join the business community and it recognises the sense of purpose that exists in the region and the commitment to building business success across Coventry and Warwickshire.”



“Coventry Means Business” recognised the achievements of three young people with awards in its first year.



The Best Business Idea was awarded to Rosemary Evans and her company Inhaler Tailor.



Inhaler Tailor will offer children, grown ups and pensioners the opportunity to have their own personalised inhaler.



It seeks to produce inhaler covers customized with a pattern, football team, or sophisticated design, and will be marketed as an inhaler for all occasions.



The Best Business Start Up was awarded to David Wick for his company Memorabilia F1/Moto.



It is the only company in the United Kingdom with the licence to sell genuine Formula 1/Moto memorabilia.



The Championship Trouble-shooter award went to Rachel Taylor and her company Ephemeral Opulence.



It specialises in bespoke corporate large scale sculptures in glass and metals appropriate for architectural interior and exterior applications.



All three entrepreneurs received specially designed awards and a £1000 business grant.



Ends (518 words)



For more information please contact Phillip Cornwall,

Chairman IoD Coventry & Warwickshire Branch

01926 851871 (o), 07860 902530 (m)

phillip.cornwall@appliedlogic.ltd.uk



Written and prepared by Dale le Vack of ASAP. Tel: 01527 894582, mobile 07972506170

Press Release from DLA Piper LLP



Lawyers in Birmingham led a global team that completed the deal that saw sports wear brand Fila sell its European operations to a management buy-out backed by Barclays Ventures. DLA Piper acted for the purchaser and Barclays Ventures.



The transaction was led by DLA Piper corporate partner Mark Beardmore who was able to call on colleagues in DLA Piper's offices in Italy, France, Germany, Spain, Holland, the Czech Republic, Hong Kong and New York.



He said: “It was a fantastic cross-border team effort to complete such a high profile transaction.”



Fila was founded by the Fila brothers almost a century ago in Italy and enjoyed its highest profile when Bjorn Borg wore its tennis clothing throughout his successful career, particularly at Wimbledon.



The Fila EMEA businesses which were acquired employ around 350 people and had a turnover of 250 million euros last year.



Mark Beardmore said: “This was a very exciting and hugely challenging transaction to be involved in. The number of jurisdictions involved meant that we were heavily reliant on the skills and experience of the lawyers in our overseas offices and it would have been extremely difficult to complete the deal in the timescale if we had not been able to call upon our own offices in those jurisdictions" .



DLA Piper is the largest global legal services organisation in the world with over 3,600 lawyers across 64 offices and 25 countries. From its offices across Asia, Europe, the Middle East and the United States, legal and business advisers provide a range of services to local, regional and international businesses.



Ends (262 words)



For further information, please contact:

Mark Beardmore, Partner,

DLA Piper LLP, Victoria Square House, Victoria Square, Birmingham B2 4DL


08700 111 111



Prepared and issued by Andy Skinner of ASAP, 01527 892004. Mobile, 07990 978257.



Notes to editors:



1. DLA Piper is the largest global legal services organisation in the world with over 3,600 lawyers across 64 offices and 25 countries. From its offices across Asia, Europe, the Middle East and the United States, legal and business advisers provide a range of services to local, regional and international businesses.

2. For further information about our organisation and services, please visit our website: www.dlapiper.com

Press Release from Richborough Estates LLP



A scheme to bring the former industrial site at Bath Vale Works back into productive use has been given the go-ahead by Congleton planners.



Richborough Estates has been given permission to construct 130 homes on 25 acres, eight acres of which will be reclaimed brownfield land.



Director Paul Campbell said demolition and remediation work would start within three months and they were delighted that planners had approved their proposals for the £30 million project.



“This gives us the chance to breathe new life into the Bath Vale Works site,” he said.



Birmingham-based Richborough Estates purchased the freehold, plant and machinery in April 2005 from the receivers. The site had previously been owned and occupied by P&F Congleton, a metal pressing company which went into receivership in October 2004.



The site currently consists of 157,000 sq ft of industrial units and ancillary office space on a 25 acre site near Congleton town centre.



Paul Campbell said: “The buildings are dilapidated and the location is no longer suitable for employment purposes so we purchased the site with residential development in mind through the Local Development Framework.



“We proposed that the best use of 21 acres of the site would be a residential scheme, and we took an option on a further four acres of land to allow for expected highway improvements.



“The general downturn in manufacturing activity in the UK and the poor quality of buildings at Bath Vale Works means re-development is paramount.



“We have worked closely with the local community and planning department to determine re-development proposals and to provide a new lease of life for the former Bath Vale Works site,” he said.



Ends (274 words)



For further information, please contact:



Paul Campbell or Danny Parkinson,
Directors,

Richborough Estates LLP, 6th Floor, Waterloo House, Waterloo Street, Birmingham, B2 5TB



0121 633 4929



Prepared and issued by Andy Skinner of ASAP – 01527 892004, mobile – 07990 978257.



Notes to Editors



Richborough Estates LLP is a dynamic operation involved in both commercial and residential property investment and development. Although Richborough Estates is financially independent, we encourage joint ventures in order to maximise the range of opportunities available to us and increase margins for all partners. Our mission is to develop and invest in a high number of manageable small to medium sized projects that will provide a short to medium term yield.



Richborough Estates currently has ongoing projects at Jews Lane, Dudley, Ellers Road, Doncaster, Bath Vale in Congleton, Cheshire, a joint venture with Barberry Properties in Stourport on Severn, and at Norton Canes in Staffordshire.

Press Release from Richborough Estates LLP




A scheme to bring the former industrial site at Bath Vale Works back into productive use has been given the go-ahead by Congleton planners.



Richborough Estates has been given permission to construct 130 homes on 25 acres, eight acres of which will be reclaimed brownfield land.



Director Paul Campbell said demolition and remediation work would start within three months and they were delighted that planners had approved their proposals for the £30 million project.



“This gives us the chance to breathe new life into the Bath Vale Works site,” he said.



Birmingham-based Richborough Estates purchased the freehold, plant and machinery in April 2005 from the receivers. The site had previously been owned and occupied by P&F Congleton, a metal pressing company which went into receivership in October 2004.



The site currently consists of 157,000 sq ft of industrial units and ancillary office space on a 25 acre site near Congleton town centre.



Paul Campbell said: “The buildings are dilapidated and the location is no longer suitable for employment purposes so we purchased the site with residential development in mind through the Local Development Framework.



“We proposed that the best use of 21 acres of the site would be a residential scheme, and we took an option on a further four acres of land to allow for expected highway improvements.

“The general downturn in manufacturing activity in the UK and the poor quality of buildings at Bath Vale Works means re-development is paramount.



“We have worked closely with the local community and planning department to determine re-development proposals and to provide a new lease of life for the former Bath Vale Works site,” he said.



Ends (274 words)



For further information, please contact:



Paul Campbell or Danny Parkinson,
Directors,

Richborough Estates LLP, 6th Floor, Waterloo House, Waterloo Street, Birmingham, B2 5TB



0121 633 4929



Prepared and issued by Andy Skinner of ASAP – 01527 892004, mobile – 07990 978257.



Notes to Editors



Richborough Estates LLP is a dynamic operation involved in both commercial and residential property investment and development. Although Richborough Estates is financially independent, we encourage joint ventures in order to maximise the range of opportunities available to us and increase margins for all partners. Our mission is to develop and invest in a high number of manageable small to medium sized projects that will provide a short to medium term yield.



Richborough Estates currently has ongoing projects at Jews Lane, Dudley, Ellers Road, Doncaster, Bath Vale in Congleton, Cheshire, a joint venture with Barberry Properties in Stourport on Severn, and at Norton Canes in Staffordshire

Press Release from Lodders Solicitors LLP


Two Warwickshire firms are playing a major role in the regeneration of Anglesey’s economy in north west Wales, in the second phase of a £60 million development that will create 1,000 jobs in the area.

The project will also bring Morrisons who are building a £25 million superstore head to head with retail giants Tesco who already have a supermarket on an adjacent site.

Stratford-upon-Avon law firm Lodders acted for Pettifer Estates of Shipston-on-Stour in the further development of Holyhead Retail Park, Anglesey, where the 65,000 sq ft Morrisons superstore will anchor the second phase of the Penrhos development to almost 200,000 sq ft.

Holyhead has been considered the poor relation to Bangor on mainland Wales for more than 20 years, but the ongoing retail development at Penrhos is expected to bring regeneration to the island.
 
Pettifer director David MacMullen said the creation of nearly 1,000 jobs on the park would be a major economic boost.

He said that Anglesey County Council and the Welsh Assembly had been most helpful in providing both land and other support.

He added: “They recognise that this development will keep about £60 million of annual expenditure on Anglesey and put £15 million in wages into the local economy - a classic example of retailing being a superb regenerator.”

“The complex transaction set a challenge for Lodders, on our behalf, and Gordons of Leeds acting for Morrisons – but they achieved exchange of contracts only four days after agreeing heads of terms.”

Alastair Frew, a partner in the Development Investment and Secured Lending team at Lodders, which has 11 lawyers in the department, said: “We have acted for Pettifer at every stage of the Penrhos project.

 “It is highly rewarding to see the stimulating effect that the park is having on the economy of the area".

He added: “The scheme is a further indication of the national reach of commercial property lawyers at Lodders. We currently have projects throughout the United Kingdom.”

After letting the 63,000 sq ft phase one of the project in 2005 to Brantano, New Look, Carpetright, Peacocks and Wilkinsons, Pettifer Estates submitted details of the park’s second and third phases taking the total to just under 200,000 sq ft of retail space with open A1 planning permission and 850 parking spaces.

Once outline consent had been granted, Wm Morrison Supermarkets scooped up the freehold of what, at 65,000 sq ft, will become the biggest foodstore on the Isle of Anglesey, providing additional competition and choice for residents. Site clearance has started and Morrisons will start construction in spring with a 30 week build program by Pettifer Construction Ltd.

The remaining space will largely be occupied by retail fashion units which Pettifers expect to be mainly pre-let due to retailer interest.

Mr MacMullen added: “Paradoxically there was initial reluctance from retailers to look at Anglesey, but all their trading results in phase one are well above budget projections – proving that the combined shopping impact of residents, tourists and two million ferry passengers annually  is massive.”

Ends (493 words)

For more information, please contact:

Alastair Frew, Partner,
Lodders Solicitors LLP, Number Ten, Elm Court, Arden Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6PA

Tel: 01789 293259

Notes to Editors:

Lodders Solicitors LLP is an established firm of solicitors based in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire. We offer specialist advice to individuals and businesses. Private client work has formed the core of our business for 150 years and remains the common thread of our other main areas of work: property, business and agriculture. We aim to combine technical ingenuity and thoughtful advice with a pragmatic approach to problem solving.

Prepared by Dale le Vack of ASAP on 01527 892004, mobile 07972 506170

IoD ICAEW 2 – James Fry and Peter McHugh, Eversheds, Richard Sanders, Catalyst Corporate Finance, Richard Boot, IoD regional chairman, Ian Taylor, Marketing Birmingham, and Jon Derry, KLM Ltd.



ends



Press Release from the Institute of Directors West Midlands






The West Midlands is leading the way in developing creative industries with more than one in ten now employed in the sector but more needs to be done to promote the region to a wider world, a major Institute of Directors-backed seminar in Birmingham heard.



The theme of the event was growing, funding and developing creative and consulting businesses in the West Midlands.



Clive Bawden, chairman-elect of the Young Directors Forum, said the region had got a strong base for future development with a young, multi-cultural population and was well served by its universities in this sector.



“Our weakness at present is linking all the elements up and then driving forward the perception of Birmingham and the West Midlands as a strong area in creative and consulting businesses. We need to be more optimistic and less pessimistic about our prospects.”



IoD chairman Richard Boot, who chaired the seminar said: “The West Midlands has a real opportunity to seize the initiative and make the region pre-eminent within the creative world using the demographic and social advantages we have at our disposal.



“The IoD's own mentoring programme and the fast growth of our own Young Directors Forum are two ways in which we at the IoD are driving this forward.



“I am particularly proud that within the YDF team for 2008/9 we have three leading creatives in the region - vice chairman Michelle Stott, James Leavesley and Suzanne Linton, who are helping us significantly in developing our work in this area, with ‘creative industry development’ one of the chosen YDF themes for the year.”



Speakers included Ian Taylor of Marketing Birmingham, Jon Derry, chairman of advertising agency KLM, Peter McHugh from Eversheds and Richard Sanders from Catalyst.



Clive Bawden said: “One strong message that came through was that funders need to recognise that not only financial motivations drive creative businesses forward, job satisfaction and artistic freedoms are also important.



“One key lesson picked up by many was the importance of ensuring that the business is run as a business, no matter what creative industry it was within.



“Bringing people in who understand the financial and managerial aspects of business alongside the creative people is a key requirement for a business to move forward at an early stage and build the structures required to survive and grow.”



Richard Sanders of Catalyst Corporate Finance said: “The funding community is keen to support the sector, although we need to recognise that it tends to be less attractive to the debt market given the issues in securing assets behind the debt that traditionally apply.



“However we should acknowledge the quality of the funding and professional community in Birmingham and the region, and we are delighted to be working with the ICAEW and IoD to work more closely with the creative community, and welcome this policy initiative.”



KLM advertising agency chairman Jon Derry said: “We are a national agency that just happens to be based in Birmingham. We have grown and prospered by using all of the advantages the area has to offer such as proximity to London and quality of life rather than worry about the problems.



“However we do need a real focus on digital within the region - whether taking the form of a key digital event, we as in the business community need to work with universities and colleges to facilitate skill development and grow the infrastructure present in the region.”



The event was organised by the IoD and the corporate finance faculty of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales and sponsored by hosts Eversheds and Catalyst Corporate Finance.



Ends



For further information, please contact:



John Phillips,

Regional Manager, IoD, West Midlands, 1 Victoria Square, Birmingham

0121 632 2300 - mobile – 07703 355 891.



Prepared and issued by Andy Skinner of ASAP - 01527 892004, mobile - 07990 978257.

Press Release from DLA Piper LLP


The Birmingham office of global law firm DLA Piper has promoted eight of its rising stars to associate with one new legal director also appointed.

They include Ceri Williams-Jones and Ben Horsley in the corporate division, Ben Gorner in employment, benefits and pensions, Uddalak Datta in finance and projects, Erin Vickers in real estate, Nina Jarratt in banking, and Mark Neale and John Kilby of the technology, media and commercial team.

Khalid Mahmood in the insurance division has been promoted to legal director.

Office managing partner Chris Rawstron said: “These promotions are recognition of the young talent we have at DLA Piper in Birmingham and they are well earned.

“DLA Piper is a global law firm but our roots are firmly in our local communities. We understand the importance of bringing on our younger staff and DLA is very much a law firm that recognises ability and rewards talent.

“We are a global legal services organisation with offices across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the US. We have over 3,400 lawyers across 64 offices and 25 countries, providing a broad range of legal services to businesses that operate on a local, regional and global level.

“However, all our client relationships begin at home and we are keen to promote those who are helping us to build our business from the ground up,” he said.

Ends (225 words)

For further information, please contact:

Chris Rawstron, Office Managing Partner,

DLA Piper LLP, Victoria Square House, Victoria Square, Birmingham B2 4DL


08700 111 111



Prepared and issued by Andy Skinner of ASAP, 01527 892004. Mobile, 07990 978257.



Notes to Editors





1. DLA Piper is a global legal services organisation with offices across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the US. Over 3,400 lawyers across 64 offices and 25 countries provide a broad range of legal services to businesses that operate on a local, regional and global level. DLA Piper is relationship driven and committed to meeting the ongoing legal needs of its clients.

2. For further information about our organisation and services, please visit our website: www.dlapiper.com