Freeths’ Private Equity team advises Foresight Group and management on the sale of Beckett Investment Management Group to WestBridge

Leading law firm Freeths has advised Foresight Group and the management team of Beckett Investment Management Group (Beckett) on the sale of a majority stake in the business to private equity investor WestBridge.

Completion of the transaction is subject to FCA regulatory approval.

Headquartered in the East of England, Beckett is a leading financial planning business providing investment planning, retirement strategies, wealth management and employee benefits services. Founded in 1988, the business has grown significantly in recent years and now operates from offices in Bury St Edmunds, Norwich, Ipswich and Lowestoft.

The transaction marks a successful exit for Foresight following its investment in Beckett in 2021, and Foresight will provide continued support for the business through a reinvestment alongside WestBridge. The transaction will support Beckett's next phase of growth under the leadership of CEO Gavin Wood and the existing management team, with Ian White staying in the business as Non-Executive Chair.

The multidisciplinary Freeths team was led by Corporate Partner John Heaphy, supported by Corporate Partner Lee Clifford, Banking & Finance Partner Andrew Curtis, Tax Partner David Smith, Tax Director Alex Angelides, Corporate Managing Associates Olivia Johnson and Grace Hill, Corporate Senior Associate Ryan Belcher, Employment Senior Associate Lauren Ogden, Corporate Associates Harry Fraser and Katherine Ferrari-Bradley and Corporate Legal Assistant Tiana Chan.

Specialist regulatory advice was provided by Partner and Head of Financial Services Regulation Sushil Kuner and Financial Services Regulation Managing Associate Josh Bates.

Commenting on the deal, John Heaphy said: “We were delighted to support Foresight, Gavin, Ian and the rest of the management team on this significant transaction. Beckett has built an impressive business with a strong reputation, exceptional culture and ambitious growth plans. We wish the management team, WestBridge and Foresight every success as they continue the company's growth journey.”

Matt McLoughlin, Partner at Foresight, added: “Beckett is a fantastic business and we are proud to have supported its growth over recent years. We are pleased to continue our involvement as a significant shareholder and look forward to working alongside WestBridge and the management team as the business enters its next phase of development.

“The Freeths team has a trusted and longstanding relationship with Beckett, and we have been grateful for their knowledge and experience throughout the exit process, which helped to support a successful outcome for all involved.”