New law firm with automotive specialism to evolve out of Wragge Lawrence Graham/Gowlings merger

WLG’s chief executive David Fennell (pictured) said: “Gowling WLG will have more than 1,400 lawyers and legal professionals operating from 18 locations across Canada, the UK, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. It will build on these foundations, adding other firms to strengthen its sector and practice capabilities in strategically important regions.

“Clients’ legal issues are increasingly international so we want to put ourselves in the strongest position to meet that demand. Last year’s merger between Wragge & Co and Lawrence Graham was the first step. Now, with Gowlings – a top-quality firm we know well, admire, like and trust – we are ready to take the next step on our ambitious journey.”

Gowling WLG will provide clients with world-class legal expertise and multi-jurisdictional support in key sectors. These include advanced manufacturing, life sciences, power generation and distribution, projects and infrastructure, real estate, resources (mining, oil & gas), and technology and communications. It will also be home to one of the world’s premier intellectual property practices.

In addition the new firm’s combined automotive group brings together a wealth of experience in advising on a wide variety of legal issues for a range of clients in the sector – from manufacturers and their supply chain, through to retailers and niche specialists.

A spokesman said: “There is huge potential in the sector with automotive manufacturers enjoying global brand strength, worldwide networks and vehicle sales breaking records. The importance of technology within the sector has increased with the growth of alternative energy vehicles and exciting developments in the driverless cars field.

“Our new firm will be at the forefront of this exhilarating sector and able to match our sector depth with the international reach of our clients. WLG and Gowlings have worked together for a number of years, developing relationships and rapport. The two firms have complementary cultures and strengths, including a shared commitment to clients, people and innovation. Both firms also have strong relationships with leading industry organisations.”

WLG and Gowlings are regularly named among the top employers in the UK and Canada, respectively. WLG has appeared in the list of the UK’s ‘Best Workplaces’ every year since the survey began in 2001. Gowlings has been named as one of the ’50 Best Employers in Canada’ by Aon Hewitt for five consecutive years.

Gowling WLG will be governed by an international board, comprising each of the founding firms’ CEOs and two additional representatives from each founding firm.