Mergers and acquisitions

We’ve supported some of the UK’s most high-profile transactions in recent years, helping both offerors and offerees protect and enhance their reputations among all stakeholder groups — crucially customers and employees — during times of significant change.

In complex M&A scenarios, our transaction specialists work seamlessly alongside clients and their advisory teams to improve deal outcomes by engaging and influencing key decision-makers, including investors, analysts, business media, regulators, and government. From early-stage strategic positioning and announcement planning to post-deal integration and beyond, we provide clear, confident communications that build trust and minimise disruption.

Our deep understanding of regulatory frameworks, market sentiment, and stakeholder expectations allows us to navigate sensitive issues and anticipate challenges before they arise.

We are consistently recognised as one of the UK’s leading advisors for both public and private M&A, ranked 6th in the UK in MergerMarket’s Global M&A Rankings 2024 – a reflection of our proven ability to deliver results in high-stakes environments.

Recent highlights include:

  • Hammerson’s £1.5 billion disposal of Value Retail: We advised real estate giant Hammerson to support the transformational sale of its stake in Value Retail, the owner of destinations like luxury brand shopping destination Bicester Village.
  • Keywords Studios’ £2.2 billion acquisition by EQT Global: MHP worked with Keywords from their £50m IPO on London’s AIM market in 2013, through more than 60 bolt on acquisitions across 10 years, culminating in their successful sale to private equity in 2024.
  • Breedon Group’s acquisitions of Lionmark and BMC: Advised Breedon on two acquisitions to build its presence in the fragmented and growing US construction materials market, for a combined US$538 million.

IPOs

In market conditions rough and smooth, we remain at the heart of the UK’s IPO market. We have extensive experience supporting companies through the rigour of an IPO and shaping the views of key audiences — from investors and media to customers, suppliers, and employees.

We act as a trusted advocate and advisor, helping clients navigate the complexity and scrutiny of the public markets with clarity and control. Our approach is grounded in

insight, experience and independence — providing senior counsel and a steady hand at every stage of the journey.

Underpinned by exceptional business media relations and a deep understanding of investor sentiment, we deliver thoughtful, tailored communications that build confidence and support valuation. From shaping the equity story and managing the offer period, to handling first-day dealings and meeting aftermarket expectations, we ensure our clients are fully prepared to step into life as a listed company.

Our strategic advice doesn’t stop at the opening ceremony. We help companies establish strong, credible communications as newly listed businesses, positioning them for long-term success in the public markets.

MHP Group supporting Keywords Studios from IPO to £2.1bn acquisition.

Keywords Studios: Supporting from IPO to £2.1bn acquisition

MHP advised Keywords Studios for over a decade, from its IPO in 2013 through its rapid growth and acquisition journey, and on the crystallisation of value through acquisition in 2024.

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