Harrison Drury expands into Stoke-on-Trent

A law firm is expanding its footprint with a new office in Stoke-on-Trent.

Harrison Drury Solicitors has opened a base within Smithfield Works, Hanley, marking a strategic move to support the city’s business and professional community. 

The office will be led by corporate partner Hayley Goodwin, a local to Stoke-on-Trent with experience at Knights and Grindeys, who joined Harrison Drury in June 2024 and helped grow the firm’s Manchester office. 

Hayley will advise SMEs, owner-managed businesses and charities on M&A, venture capital and private equity transactions.

She said: “Being from Stoke, you’re always aware of this region’s amazing industrial heritage and entrepreneurial mindset. 

“We’re home to a significant number of global companies, as well as a vast array of SMEs and owner-managed businesses. 

“We have fast growing tech and advanced manufacturing sectors, while multi-million-pound regeneration schemes like the Etruscan Square and Station Gateway projects are set to bring significant investment to the city. 

“We felt there was an incredible opportunity for an independent law firm of our size and capability to thrive here and we’re looking forward immensely to working alongside other professional firms in the region to support businesses and individuals.” 

The new office will see Harrison Drury, which employs over 200 staff across eight North West offices, recruit specialist lawyers to expand its corporate, commercial and property services for business owners, alongside private client and family services for individuals. 

Rick Life, partner and head of Harrison Drury’s Manchester office, added: “When we opened our Manchester office in January 2024, we were initially a team of two, but we grew quickly and now have more than 30 staff in the city.

“We see our Stoke office developing in a similar way in terms of bringing in talented and dedicated people who can help our clients achieve their goals. 

“In Hayley, we have someone leading the office who is passionate about the area and is also well connected with the professional services community.

“We want our growth as a firm to be considered and sustainable, expanding into other locations only where opportunities present themselves and it makes sense to do so. 

“Hayley’s knowledge, experience and local connections has made this decision a natural step.” 

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