Manchester has steadily evolved into a major legal powerhouse over the past 15 years, according to Ed Foulkes of Clarke Willmott LLP. Ed, who leads the firm’s corporate team, notes the striking influx of national and London-based law firms opening local offices, highlighting the city’s growing competition with the capital for both clients and legal talent.
Powered by a varied economy, strategic location, excellent transport links, and a comparatively lower cost of living, Manchester has become a prime spot for national and international clients to establish or expand their UK presence. The city’s GDP of £33.6 billion underscores its economic significance, while its strong technology, finance, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors drive demand for legal and professional services.
“Manchester has experienced substantial growth in its legal sector,” says Ed. “It’s simply too large a market for national firms to ignore. While many bigger names have longstanding regional roots, others are now arriving with teams built around local partners. A wide range of clients and specialisms means there are numerous opportunities for firms looking to grow.”
As the UK’s foremost tech hub outside of London, Manchester boasts a £5 billion annual tech sector. Here, law firms are increasingly pivoting toward intellectual property, data protection, fintech, and regulatory compliance to service both established corporations and the city’s numerous start-ups. Another factor driving local growth is the appeal of ‘Northshoring’: Manchester is home to around 90,000 students and two law schools, maintaining a steady pipeline of skilled graduates.
Beyond this, projects such as the £1.3 billion Manchester Airport Expansion Programme look set to boost international connectivity and trade, which in turn raises demand for legal expertise. “When you connect to more global markets, businesses are likelier to set up or grow here, and law firms are perfectly positioned to support that expansion,” Ed adds.
Having a mayor-focused governance structure further bolsters Manchester’s draw for businesses and investors, providing strong leadership and streamlined decision-making at a local level. Meanwhile, established associations like Pro-Manchester and Manchester Law Society—Britain’s largest legal community outside of London—offer a broad professional network that fosters collaboration and career development.
Above all, says Ed, the city’s appeal extends well beyond the workplace: “Greater Manchester is a fantastic place to live, with top-tier culture, sport—especially football—and gorgeous surrounding countryside. That vibrant quality of life makes it easy to see why many professionals and firms are choosing to base themselves here.”
Ed Foulkes heads Clarke Willmott’s Manchester office and specialises in mergers and acquisitions, equity investments, buy-outs, joint ventures, and corporate structuring.
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Manchester’s legal sector: How the city rose to challenge London’s dominance
