Law firm Birketts – alongside accountant and financial adviser Scrutton Bland and NatWest - has advised Jamie Cooper and Angela Linforth on the completion of a management buyout at hand-crafted furniture specialist Titchmarsh & Goodwin.
Recognised for authentic English craftsmanship, the Ipswich-based firm - founded almost 100 years ago - has a reputation for quality, and its client base has included royalty and dignitaries over the years. The deal ensures that 30-plus jobs remain secure for the foreseeable future.
Birketts advised on all legal matters with James Austin leading the team. Assistance was provided by Mark Gipson (corporate) and Stuart Raven (commercial property). The Scrutton Bland team was led by corporate partner, Sue Gull with assistance from Mark Smith, and the NatWest team included Gavin Brooks, director business banking and Simon Nicholson relationship manager.
Jamie Cooper, director at Titchmarsh & Goodwin, comments: “Titchmarsh & Goodwin had been ‘sold’ at one stage in negotiations but was brought back from the brink of likely closure thanks to the combined expertise of the Birketts, Scrutton Bland and NatWest, who have worked tirelessly to secure this agreement. The advice, patience and sheer backing that we received has been a great source of comfort and reassurance for which we will be forever grateful.”
James Austin, corporate partner at Birketts, says: “There was a real risk that the jobs and assets of this prestigious firm were going to be lost. I’m thrilled to have played a part, alongside the teams at Scrutton Bland and NatWest, in securing this Suffolk-based business’ long-term future.”
Sue Gull, corporate partner at Scrutton Bland, adds: “Scrutton Bland were delighted to work in partnership with Birketts and NatWest to ensure that Titchmarsh & Goodwin secured the best possible outcome in this process. We are proud to have been of assistance to this local firm, and look forward to seeing the business grow in years to come.”
