Manchester-based berg was founded in 1980 and focuses on banking and finance, commercial disputes, real estate and corporate and commercial matters.  

Reuben Berg – who set up the firm – and former CEO Alison Loveday have joined as partners at Kennedys, together with their team, as part of the merger.

Kennedys said the merger will double the size of its UK commercial practice, with its global commercial practice currently operating throughout the Americas, Asia-Pacific and EMEA regions.

“I am delighted that Reuben, Alison, and their team have joined Kennedys,” said Nick Thomas, senior partner at Kennedys.

•   62% of financial firms have supported female career progression
•   Goldsmith Williams to rebrand to GWlegal
•   Law firm launches tool to speed up fintech regulation

“They come with an excellent reputation, serving businesses and entrepreneurs in key sectors including property development, technology, leisure, healthcare and education.”

Reuben added that berg was looking forward to working as part of a global infrastructure which provided exceptional advice and service to its clients.

“We have turned down many opportunities over the years that weren’t the right fit to grow berg in the way we wanted, and I am thrilled that we have brought together two very like-minded businesses.”

The merger is the latest growth announcement by Kennedys which opened offices in Melbourne and Mexico City this year.

Kennedys opened its Manchester office in 2008 and, in October 2016, moved to larger premises to accommodate for growth in the region.

The berg team will move into Kennedys’ Churchgate House office on Oxford Street on 1^st October.

“This has been a strategic growth area for Kennedys and we are very pleased to be further growing our presence in the North West with a distinctive commercial offering,” said Nick.

“The combined team will offer substantially enhanced services to clients, with client focus remaining at our core.”