JCP Solicitors’ Healthcare team recently advised leading dental group Blakeridge Ltd (Cox and Hitchcock Dental Group) on the strategic 7-figure acquisition of a dental practice and freehold property in Caerphilly, supporting investment in the local area and expanding the group’s footprint across the region.
The transaction saw the dental group increase its portfolio to six practices across South Wales, and involved a complex combination of business and property elements. Led by Rhianydd Llewellyn-Thomas, Director and Head of Healthcare at JCP Solicitors, the multifaceted acquisition deal required comprehensive due diligence across business and property, liaising closely with NatWest, who provided funding support for the acquisition.
With three independent expense-share dentists selling separately from the property, the deal necessitated co-ordination of three parallel negotiations for separate sale and purchase agreements.
Long-term, the deal has facilitated Cox and Hitchcock Dental Group’s expansion strategy: bringing new sites into their portfolio puts acquisition plans into action, cementing the NHS and private dental group’s growing market share across Cardiff, Barry, Caerphilly and Newport.
David R Cox. BDS, MSc (Dental Implantology), Principle at Cox and Hitchcock Dental Group, said: “We have thoroughly enjoyed working with Rhianydd. She brings a unique insight into the dental profession and an exceptional understanding of the mindset and challenges faced by dentists, which proved invaluable throughout the process.
“She was consistently patient, diligent, and highly professional, ensuring that everyone involved was kept informed and that matters were handled efficiently and in a timely manner. Her responsiveness, often going above and beyond normal hours, demonstrated a genuine commitment to achieving the best outcome.”
A NatWest spokesperson said: “This acquisition provides a marked boost for the local economy whilst allowing Cox and Hitchcock Dental Group to facilitate its growth plans, and we were delighted to provide funding support.
“Working with Rhianydd at JCP Solicitors was a smooth and efficient process, as she kept us up-to-date throughout the complex transaction. Rhianydd combined expertise with approachability, ensuring all parties were informed and understood the deal with ease.”
As NHS dental contract reforms continue in Wales, specialist legal advice is vital to ensure a smooth transaction. Clear, pragmatic advice is required to navigate changing regulations, ensuring all parties stay aligned.
