Browne Jacobson expands office presence in Manchester

Browne Jacobson, the UK and Ireland law firm operating at the forefront of society's biggest issues, has committed to an additional 4,642 sq ft of premium office space in Manchester's Spinningfields district, almost doubling its presence in the city centre on a new 10-year lease.

The expansion, from 6,700 sq ft to 11,342 sq ft at No.1 Spinningfields, sees the firm move from part of the 3rd floor to occupy the entirety of level 15. This strategic move comes as Browne Jacobson announced record-breaking financial results for 2024/25, with turnover reaching £137m – a 16% increase from £118m the previous year.

The decision to significantly expand the Manchester office was driven by client demand across the firm's core sectors: corporates, health and life sciences, government, education, and financial services and insurance. This growth reflects the firm's strategic vision of positioning itself at the forefront of society's biggest challenges, supporting clients who are tackling the issues that matter most.

Richard Medd, Managing Partner at Browne Jacobson, said: "This expansion in Manchester represents more than just additional office space – it's a strategic investment in our ability to serve clients across the North West and beyond. Our growth demonstrates the success of our clear strategic vision and the exceptional talent of our people.

"By positioning ourselves at the forefront of society's biggest issues, we're not just delivering legal services – we're helping to shape the solutions that matter most to our clients and communities. Our role as connectors, bringing together the right expertise, networks and resources, creates exceptional value for our clients operating in an increasingly complex world."

Pete Allen, Head of the firm’s Manchester office, said: "The North West is home to some of the most dynamic changemakers in the country, including some of the most innovative tech and healthcare businesses, established and ambitious corporates, and financial services and private equity leaders. Our new and expanded presence allows us to work even more closely with these leaders to support them in driving real change in their sectors, communities and beyond."

The Manchester expansion is part of a broader infrastructure investment programme that has seen the firm achieve unprecedented growth, including 13 lateral hire partners in 2024/25 – the most in a single year to date. Office moves are also planned for Cardiff, following the recent completion of the firm's London client suite refurbishment.

The enhanced presence at No.1 Spinningfields provides continued access to Cat A office suites, extensive transport links, and private car parking. The building's location in the heart of Manchester's business district offers close proximity to popular food and beverage destinations, retail outlets, and entertainment venues, supporting the firm's commitment to work-life balance.

Owned by Schroders Capital, No.1 Spinningfields boasts exceptional ESG credentials, having recently been awarded BREEAM Excellent, WIRED Certified Platinum, and a 4.5-star NABERS Energy rating.

Rob Prescott, Asset Manager at Schroders, said: “No.1 Spinningfields has been leading the way in terms of corporate and commercial office space in the heart of Manchester business district for quite some time, and we’re pleased to see such a valued tenant further put their trust in this building.

“For a law firm of such scale and gravitas like Browne Jacobson, high-quality, Cat A office space is vital to the business’ growth and outputs, and No.1 Spinningfields ticks all of these boxes.”

Property agents, OBI, acted on behalf of Schroders Capital.