Ward Hadaway ranked region’s top dealmaker

A North East law firm has been named the region’s most active legal adviser for corporate transactions following a year of strong deal activity.

Ward Hadaway secured the top spot in Experian MarketIQ’s latest UK and Republic of Ireland M&A Review, advising on 119 qualifying deals during 2025. 

The result saw the firm top the rankings in Yorkshire while placing sixth among the most active legal advisers across the UK.

Ward Hadaway’s results reflect sustained activity across its regional offices and continued expansion of its corporate team, which has advised on a broad range of transactions across sectors including manufacturing, technology and professional services.

The firm also strengthened its capabilities following the integration of The Endeavour Partnership team in Teesside after a merger completed in July.

Nik Tunley, head of corporate at Ward Hadaway, said: “Securing the top ranking in the North East reflects the strength of our team and the depth of relationships we have built with businesses and advisers across the region.

“The integration of the Endeavour team has added further depth to our expertise and broadened the support we can provide to businesses at every stage of their growth. 

“These results demonstrate the scale and quality of the combined team and the trust our clients place in us.”

Experian’s report recorded 6742 transactions across the UK during 2025, highlighting continued resilience in the mergers and acquisitions market despite a moderation in overall volumes.

Steven Petrie, managing partner at Ward Hadaway, added: “This performance is the outcome of sustained investment in our corporate practice and in the wider firm. 

“We have focused on building a team with the right experience and commercial insight to support clients through increasingly complex transactions.

“Our progress in both the national and regional rankings demonstrates the strength of our capabilities and the collaborative approach we take with clients, intermediaries and funding partners across the UK.”

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