A Dudley law firm has helped a UK steel service centre in a landmark acquisition.

Higgs LLP advised USP on its purchase of United Steels, a decoiler company also based in Dudley.

The acquisition was led by Richard Griffiths, the head of corporate at Higgs, and was under the umbrella of the parent company, USPS Group.

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The merger has positioned the newly formed company as one of the largest mill-partnered independent steel distributors and processors in the UK.

USP, which was founded in 2016 by Glyn Costigan, has seen rapid growth since its inception and currently buys 15,000 tonnes per month of hot-rolled coil.

Mr Costigan said: "The acquisition marks a further significant step for USPS Group.

"United Steels’ brilliant range of processing capabilities, including decoiling and slitting, will further support planned growth and, of course, increase the stability of our group structure."

He added: "The advice and support from Richard and Higgs were invaluable as we navigated through the deal from start to finish.

"Without doubt, our businesses are stronger together."

As part of the acquisition, United Steels' managing director, Mark Unitt, will retain his role and receive a stake in the business.

Mr Griffiths said: "We were delighted to advise USP on a deal that significantly strengthens its position in the market and also safeguards the future of United Steels.

"We were able to assist across a range of aspects of the acquisition, including structuring the deal and the grant of the new lease of the trading premises."

He added: "We hope the new-look company continues to go from strength to strength in the years to come."

Mr Griffiths was supported by his colleagues Dan Southall, Maria Nicol and Elizabeth Wood in the acquisition.

For more information, visit www.higgsllp.co.uk.