Eddowes Waldron secures its future through merger with Sills & Betteridge

Eddowes Waldron Solicitors is a respected Derby law firm with a history spanning more than 150 years. The firm is recognised for its expertise across family law, residential conveyancing, wills and probate, personal injury and private client services.

Planning for the next chapter

As the partners considered the future of the business, their focus was on finding the right long-term succession solution that protected employees, maintained continuity for clients and ensuring the Derby office continued to preserve the firm’s legacy.

They wanted to identify an organisation that would respect the firm's heritage while providing additional investment, resources and opportunities needed to support future growth.

Against a backdrop of increasing consolidation within the legal sector, the partners recognised that joining a larger legal practice with shared values, culture and ambitions would help them achieve these objectives.

Delivering the right partnership

Armstrong Watson was engaged to advise the partners throughout the transaction process, from identifying suitable potential acquirers through to completion.

Following a detailed review of the firm's objectives and priorities, we undertook market analysis and approached a carefully selected group of potential acquirers. This involved preparing marketing materials, managing confidential discussions, coordinating meetings with interested parties and helping the partners evaluate strategic options.

Sills & Betteridge LLP emerged as a particularly strong strategic fit, with its commitment closely aligning with the objectives of the Eddowes Waldron partners.

Armstrong Watson continued to advise through negotiations, due diligence, transaction structuring and completion preparations. We worked closely with legal advisers and stakeholders throughout the process, helping to maintain momentum while managing the commercial, operational and regulatory matters that arose.

Throughout the engagement, our focus remained firmly on achieving an outcome that delivered security and continuity for clients and employees whilst creating a sustainable future for the business.

The outcome

The transaction completed successfully with Eddowes Waldron joining Sills & Betteridge LLP. The enlarged Derby practice now operates as Sills & Betteridge Incorporating Eddowes Waldron, bringing together the strengths of both firms and creating one of the region's most established legal teams.

Importantly, the transaction allows Eddowes Waldron's heritage and client relationships to be retained while benefiting from the scale, infrastructure and growth ambitions of a larger regional practice.

Nadine Waldron, Partner at Eddowes Waldron, said: "Selling a business that has been part of the Derby community for more than 150 years was one of the most significant decisions we have ever had to make. It was essential that we found a firm that would look after our clients, support our team and continue the legacy that has been built over generations.

"From the very beginning, the Armstrong Watson team understood what was important to us. They took the time to listen, challenge our thinking when needed, and guide us through every stage of what proved to be a lengthy and complex process. Their support went far beyond transaction advice. Whenever obstacles arose, they were there with practical solutions, reassurance and a clear focus on achieving the right outcome.

"We are truly grateful to Michael, Andy and the wider team for guiding us through the process over the past couple of years. Their commitment, professionalism and perseverance have helped us achieve an outcome that gives us confidence for the future and provides opportunities for our staff and clients alike. We are sincerely thankful for their support and much relieved to have reached such a positive conclusion."

Michael Stewart, Corporate Finance Senior Manager, added: "We are delighted for Nadine and Chris. This is a fantastic result for them, their team and their clients, and one that secures the long-term future of a firm with a proud history in Derby. It was hugely rewarding to deliver a partnership that protects Eddowes Waldron's legacy while creating genuine opportunities for its people and clients. We could not be happier for everyone involved."