Hazlewoods Corporate Finance has been named a top 10 UK adviser by Experian once again after completing 112 deals in 2023.

While M&A activity fell by 12% in the UK last year, according to Experian Market IQ's latest M&A Report, Hazlewoods advisers remained active and optimistic.

The annual report, which places corporate finance teams according to the number of successful transactions completed, puts Hazlewoods third in the South West, fourth in the East of England and sixth in the Midlands, with top 10 spots across London, South East, North West and Yorkshire and Humber.

Working closely with business owners, PE houses and strategic acquirers, the Gloucestershire-based firm not only grew to more than 530 employees, but the Corporate Finance team also expanded to over 40 specialists.

Corporate finance director Rich Grover said: "High interest rates, geopolitical instability and persistent inflation made the market more cautious in 2023.

"The key to our success was listening to our clients and tailoring a solution to fit their needs. For example, we completed three times more management buyouts than the prior year and advised on five times more employee ownership trusts.

"These routes allow business owners to exit their business in alternative ways, passing it onto those who have helped them achieve growth and success."

While 23% of completed deals were in the South West, Hazlewoods has a national and international reach.

The firm's corporate finance advisers support both buy and sell side transactions across many sectors, as well as focusing on specialisms in health, social care, education, dental, insurance brokers, technology, legal, veterinary and pharmacy markets.

One of the most active advisory firms in the UK, the team has significant expertise in helping businesses to grow, taking entrepreneurs from start-up, through fundraising for expansion and corporate acquisitions to ultimate exit.

Corporate finance partner James Whittaker said: "Deals which were put on hold last year look like they are coming to fruition in 2024. Hazlewoods has close relationships with multiple private equity houses who are embarking on buy and build strategies and looking to increase their portfolios, so are well placed to assist with their acquisitions."

If you are looking to grow, acquire or sell a business, please contact a member of the team on 01242 680000 or visit https://www.hazlewoods.co.uk/services/corporate-finance  to find out more.

For more information, visit www.hazlewoods.co.uk