Napthens LLP

Napthens LLP Napthens provides legal services to businesses and individuals across Lancashire and Cumbria. Napthens provides legal services to businesses and individuals.

Structured into specialist departments we operate from offices across Lancashire including Preston, Blackburn, Blackpool and the Fylde – and our Penrith office in Cumbria. In a service based upon relationships, we believe Napthens’ strength is our people. Professional yet approachable, we put our clients at the heart of what we do, providing a personalised, tailored service for our commercial and

personal clients. Our advisers are specialists. Rely on Napthens for expert legal advice tailored to your needs.

📢 A Guide to Buying a Manufacturing Business in 6 Steps Growth through acquisition remains a key strategy for many manuf...
28/08/2026

📢 A Guide to Buying a Manufacturing Business in 6 Steps

Growth through acquisition remains a key strategy for many manufacturers, but buying an established business comes with risks that go well beyond agreeing a purchase price. From supply chain dependencies and machinery investment requirements to contractual liabilities and regulatory obligations, understanding what sits beneath the surface is essential before progressing a deal.

With continued interest in manufacturing acquisitions, buyers need a clear understanding of the legal, commercial and operational issues that can affect value and future performance. Identifying these risks early can help avoid costly surprises once the transaction completes.

In this article, Craig Whittingham explores:
• 🔍 How to decide whether a share purchase or asset purchase is the right structure
• 📊 Why thorough due diligence is critical to understanding risk and value
• 🏭 Key manufacturing-specific issues, from equipment investment to supplier reliance
• 📑 What to look for in customer, supplier and commercial property arrangements
• ✅ How warranties and indemnities can help protect buyers after completion
• 🚦 The post-completion actions businesses should plan for from day one

Manufacturing acquisitions can create significant opportunities, but success often depends on careful preparation and informed decision-making. Understanding the process and the risks involved can help businesses protect value and achieve a smoother transaction.

📖 Read the full article: https://www.napthens.co.uk/insights/how-to-buy-a-manufacturing-business-in-6-steps/

🐾 Behind every great team is a great support network... and sometimes that support has four legs and a wagging tail. To ...
26/08/2026

🐾 Behind every great team is a great support network... and sometimes that support has four legs and a wagging tail.

To mark National Dog Day, we're shining a spotlight on some of our colleagues' canine companions, along with a fun fact about each one.

Take a look through the carousel and meet the dogs that keep the Napthens team smiling. 🐶

📢 Landlord and Tenant Act 1954: Security of Tenure ExplainedCommercial landlords and tenants are continuing to navigate ...
25/08/2026

📢 Landlord and Tenant Act 1954: Security of Tenure Explained

Commercial landlords and tenants are continuing to navigate a changing property landscape, making it more important than ever to understand the rights and obligations that can apply when a lease comes to an end. Misunderstanding security of tenure can lead to costly disputes, missed opportunities and uncertainty over future occupation.

With the Law Commission currently reviewing aspects of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, organisations should keep a close eye on developments that could shape commercial leasing arrangements in the years ahead.

In this article, David Bailey explores:
• 🏢 When commercial leases benefit from statutory security of tenure protection
• ⚖️ The circumstances in which landlords can oppose a lease renewal
• 🔍 How key notices under the Act affect both landlords and tenants
• ✅ What businesses need to know about contracting out of security of tenure
• 📊 How renewal lease terms and rent may be determined if parties cannot agree
• 💡 Common ways tenants can lose statutory protection and how to avoid costly mistakes

Whether you are a landlord planning for the future or a tenant looking to protect your business premises, understanding how the 1954 Act operates is essential for making informed commercial decisions and managing risk effectively.

📖 Read the full article: https://www.napthens.co.uk/insights/landlord-and-tenant-act-1954-commercial-property-guide/

Looking for a senior finance role where you can influence strategy, work closely with decision-makers and help shape the...
24/08/2026

Looking for a senior finance role where you can influence strategy, work closely with decision-makers and help shape the future of a growing professional services firm?

We're looking for an experienced Financial Controller to join our Finance team in Preston.

This is an opportunity to take on a key leadership role within the business, working closely with our Finance Director, Executive Board and Heads of Department to provide the financial insight, control and commercial guidance that supports the firm's continued success.

In this role, you'll be responsible for:

📊 Management accounts and financial reporting
📈 Budgeting and forecasting
✅ Financial controls and regulatory compliance
👥 Leading and developing finance teams
🔍 Managing the annual audit process
💡 Supporting strategic decision-making across the firm

Alongside a competitive package, you'll benefit from:

🏠 Hybrid working
🌴 28 days' holiday plus bank holidays
📈 The opportunity to influence business strategy
🤝 A collaborative and supportive working environment
🚀 Genuine opportunity to make a lasting impact

We're particularly keen to hear from candidates with experience in a law firm or professional services environment, a strong understanding of the Solicitors Accounts Rules, and proven experience leading finance functions and people.

If you'd like to find out more, visit our website, or contact Daniel Grinsted on 07425 797 217 (call, text or WhatsApp) for a confidential conversation.

Even if you're not actively looking, feel free to get in touch for a chat.

📢 How To Manage EPC & MEES Changes for Commercial LettingsThe rules around energy efficiency in commercial property are ...
24/08/2026

📢 How To Manage EPC & MEES Changes for Commercial Lettings

The rules around energy efficiency in commercial property are becoming increasingly important for landlords, investors and occupiers. With tighter regulatory requirements on the horizon, businesses that fail to plan ahead could face compliance issues, financial penalties and challenges in maintaining rental income.

As the energy efficiency landscape continues to evolve, commercial property owners should be reviewing their portfolios now. Understanding upcoming EPC and MEES requirements can help avoid costly surprises and protect the long-term value of property assets.

In this article, Demi Hazlett explores:
• 🏢 What the current MEES requirements mean for commercial landlords
• 📊 How EPC ratings can affect a property's ability to be lawfully let
• 🚦 The proposed move towards higher minimum energy efficiency standards
• ✅ Key steps landlords can take to prepare for future compliance changes
• 💡 The financial and operational risks of failing to meet requirements
• 🔍 How early planning can help protect asset value and income streams

Energy efficiency is no longer just an environmental consideration. It is becoming a key commercial and compliance issue for the property sector. Understanding the changes now can help landlords make informed decisions and stay ahead of future requirements.

📖 Read the full article: https://www.napthens.co.uk/insights/commercial-lettings-mees-ep-guide/

Yesterday, we hosted the MCR Rising Summer Drinks with LPFXtra on the roof terrace at our Manchester office 🏢The evening...
21/08/2026

Yesterday, we hosted the MCR Rising Summer Drinks with LPFXtra on the roof terrace at our Manchester office 🏢

The evening brought together graduates, trainees, newly qualified professionals and others in the early stages of their careers to connect, share experiences and build relationships across the property sector.

Strong networks are invaluable at every stage of a professional journey, creating opportunities, opening doors and offering support as careers develop.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, and to LPFXtra for partnering with us on such a successful event 🤝

It was inspiring to see so many talented professionals building connections that will help shape the future of the industry.

Krista Powell, Orla Walshe, Amy Harris, Luke Fisher, Demi Hazlett, Francesca Geddes

📢 Are your payment terms and supplier agreements ready for the changes proposed in the Commercial Payments Bill?Late pay...
20/08/2026

📢 Are your payment terms and supplier agreements ready for the changes proposed in the Commercial Payments Bill?

Late payments remain a significant challenge for many organisations, particularly SMEs, making it vital to stay ahead of potential legislative changes that could affect commercial agreements and debt recovery strategies.

Following the Government's introduction of the Commercial Payments Bill to Parliament, businesses may face stricter payment requirements and stronger enforcement measures. Understanding what's proposed now can help organisations prepare for the changes ahead.

In this article, Sven Clarke explores:
• 💡 The key changes proposed under the Commercial Payments Bill and what they mean in practice
• 📊 How new limits on payment terms could impact commercial relationships and cash flow management
• ✅ The enhanced rights available to suppliers pursuing overdue payments
• ⚖️ The strengthening of late payment protections and enforcement mechanisms
• 🔍 What businesses should review now to prepare for potential legislative change
• 🏢 The wider implications for SMEs, debt recovery and supply chain resilience

With payment practices under increasing scrutiny, now is the time for businesses to review their arrangements and understand the potential impact of forthcoming reforms. Staying informed can help protect cash flow, strengthen supplier relationships and reduce commercial risk.

📖 Read the full article: https://www.napthens.co.uk/insights/commercial-payments-bill-guide/

Looking for high-quality Commercial Property work, great clients and a team that's genuinely enjoyable to be part of?We'...
18/08/2026

Looking for high-quality Commercial Property work, great clients and a team that's genuinely enjoyable to be part of?

We're growing our Real Estate teams in Preston and Blackburn and would love to hear from experienced Commercial Property lawyers who are looking to take the next step in their career.

At Napthens, you'll join a supportive, collaborative team where you'll work on high-quality matters for a diverse client base across Lancashire and the wider North West. As a Tier 1 Legal 500-ranked team, we advise developers, investors, lenders and businesses on a wide range of property transactions.

You'll have the opportunity to work on matters including:
🏢 Acquisitions and disposals
🏗️ Development work
🤝 Landlord and tenant matters
💷 Secured lending
📊 Portfolio management
🔗 Corporate support transactions

Alongside quality work and great clients, you'll benefit from hybrid working, genuine flexibility and an environment that supports both career progression and a healthy work-life balance.

If you'd like to find out more, visit our website here: https://napthens-llp.breezy.hr/p/0692cb1b13ea01, or contact Daniel Grinsted on 07425 797 217.

Even if you're not actively looking, feel free to get in touch for a confidential chat.

🪴 Seeing the journey from field to fork first-hand is a reminder of just how much expertise, innovation and collaboratio...
13/08/2026

🪴 Seeing the journey from field to fork first-hand is a reminder of just how much expertise, innovation and collaboration sits behind our food supply chain.

It was fantastic to visit Bryan's Salads with our Next Generation Rural Professionals Networking event earlier this week. Attendees listened to insights from Kay Johnson MBE, and connected with emerging rural professionals from across the sector.

A huge thank you to Bryan's Salads for hosting and to Wignalls, Handelsbanken and NFU for supporting the event.

The future of rural business depends on strong networks, shared knowledge and meaningful connections. 🤝

Diane France, Holly Davis, Danielle Hartley

📢 Buying a semi-rural property? Don't skip these legal checks The dream of more space, countryside views and a quieter l...
12/08/2026

📢 Buying a semi-rural property? Don't skip these legal checks

The dream of more space, countryside views and a quieter lifestyle is driving interest in semi-rural properties. But alongside the appeal can come legal complexities that, if overlooked, may lead to costly surprises, restrictions on how you use the property, or disputes down the line.
From shared access routes to planning constraints and boundary issues, buyers need to understand exactly what they're purchasing. Carrying out the right checks before committing can help avoid unexpected problems after completion.

In this article, Naomi Kuta-Powell explores:
• 🔍 The key legal checks that can help uncover hidden risks before you buy
• 🚦 Why access rights and private roads deserve careful investigation
• 🏡 Common boundary and land ownership issues that can affect future plans
• ⚖️ Planning considerations that may impact property use and development
• ✅ Essential checks on utilities, services and infrastructure connections
• 💡 Practical steps to help protect your investment and minimise risk

Understanding the legal position of a semi-rural property is just as important as finding the right location. Taking the time to investigate potential issues early can help buyers make informed decisions and move forward with confidence.

📖 Read the full article: https://www.napthens.co.uk/insights/buying-a-semi-rural-property-legal-checks/

Address

7 Winckley Square
Preston
PR13JD

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

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