HCR Law continues to lead UK M&A activity

HCR Law has been named the UK’s top legal adviser for mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in Experian’s MarketIQ Full Year 2025 report.

The firm secured the number one national ranking for 2025, maintaining first place by a 17.6% margin.

In a year shaped by economic uncertainty and higher financing costs, our Corporate team supported clients through complex, high-value and time-sensitive transactions.

Regionally, the firm remains top-ranked for M&A deals in the South East, South West and East of England. The Midlands also climbs from second to first place, with Wales and London holding third and fourth place respectively. The North West continues its upward trajectory, rising to eighth position.

The latest results underline HCR’s position as a strong national adviser for corporate transactions of all sizes and demonstrates the strength of our UK-wide capability.

Richard Wilkey, Head of Corporate at HCR Law, said: “We’re delighted to be recognised again as the UK’s top legal adviser for M&A. This ranking reflects the confidence our clients place in us and the consistency of our Corporate team across the country.

“In a cautious market where quality mattered more than volume, clients turned to us for specialist insight and decisive execution. Their trust helped us secure a clear first-place position in 2025, even as overall deal activity tightened.

“Having guided clients through a more selective market, we’re well placed to support them as conditions stabilise and confidence returns. Our experience over the past year means we can help businesses capitalise on emerging opportunities as the market continues its shift towards fewer, higher-value transactions. As these opportunities continue to come through, the department has also needed to continue its growth trajectory with recruitment remaining strong across all regions and at all levels.”

Experian MarketIQ FY 2025 rankings for HCR Law

• United Kingdom – 1st
• London – 4th
• South East – 1st
• South West – 1st
• East of England – 1st
• Midlands – 1st
• North West – 8th
• Wales – 3rd