One of Moray’s oldest legal practices, Elgin-based Wink and Mackenzie (WM), has been acquired by Scottish law firm Harper Macleod.
Partners Ian Davidson and Lauren Wright, along with all 15 staff at WM, will transfer at the start of September to its new Glasgow-headquartered owner, which also has offices in Inverness, Thurso, Lerwick and Edinburgh.
According to Harper Macleod chairman Lorne Crerar, his firm’s move into the Moray market will add to its “competitive advantage” over others in the north.
Mr Crerar, who also chairs economic development agency Highlands and Islands Enterprise, said: “This is a hugely exciting opportunity both for Harper Macleod and the team at Wink and Mackenzie, which is one of the leading firms in Moray.
“We have worked closely together for a number of years and joining forces was a natural step to take for both parties.
He added: “As well as the services Wink and Mackenzie already provides, it will allow us to extend the full Harper Macleod offering of commercial and personal legal services to the local market.
“Harper Macleod has had a permanent, growing presence in the Highlands and Islands for 15 years now and our unique footprint in Inverness, Thurso, Lerwick and now Elgin, gives us a competitive advantage over the other current and emerging legal services providers in the region.”
Established more than 100 years ago, WM’s practice has focused on providing residential property, estate agency and personal legal services. It amalgamated with another local firm, Cooper Laing, in 1998.
Mr Davidson said: “Our firms have had a strong working relationship for some time and we already know we’re a good match in terms of our ethos and the way we do business.”
Another WM partner, Damian Marinello, will remain as a consultant. The practice will continue to operate from Elgin’s Old Station building, where it has been based since 2003.
