Re-shaping its approach to some of its core sectors has paid off for South West law firm Foot Anstey, helping it achieve year-on-year turnover growth of 9% to £47.2m.
The firm, which employs more than 500 staff across its seven offices including Bristol, said the latest figure maintains its strong annual expansion, which has now hit 95% over the past six years. However, it is slower than the previous year’s growth of 13%. 
It said revenues in financial services achieved “significant growth” particularly in a number of practice areas, including Islamic banking – up by 75% – and private equity – up by 85%.
Meanwhile, a review of its core sector work led to some refinements to build on its success and expertise. As a result, its housebuilder and commercial development practice areas each grew by 20%, which prompted their merger into new developers sector.
Notable client wins during the period included Welcome Break, Goonhilly Earth Station Ltd and London-based mid-market private equity firm Livingbridge – the compliance programme for which has twice been award-shortlisted – while significant project successes in the year included advising on the £1.6bn Pivot Power electric vehicle recharging network, the world’s biggest.
In addition, the firm’s stand-alone expertise in the fields of Energy and Private wealth led to the creation of two new sectors, while its traditionally strong sectors of Media and Technology became Media and Entertainment and Retail, Leisure, Food and Drink became Retail and Consumer – in both cases to reflect a more focused offering. 
Managing partner John Westwell, pictured, said: “Another year of strong growth is very pleasing, given an uncertain wider business environment.
“Our push for market share through a focus on our established sectors and retaining high-quality talent continues to pay dividends. Our sector review will provide further focus for our teams, ensuring we continue to be active participators in those industries we operate in and can really understand their business challenges to tailor our advice accordingly.”
Enable Law, the firm’s personal injury and clinical negligence practice which became a separate business entity and brand, had quickly developed a strong market and online presence in its first full year of operation, said Mr Westwell.
He added: “We are extremely well prepared for the year ahead as we begin our new strategic period. Our consistent focus on delivering client value will remain, even as our strategy and offering evolves.”
The firm has offices in Taunton, Exeter, Plymouth, Truro, Southampton and London as well as Bristol.
