Brethertons
Brethertons solicitors opened their office in Bicester in 2012 when they merged with the long-established Bicester solicitors, Neasham Lloyd, who were located in Sheep Street.
Within a year of the initial merger, additional office accommodation was required and space was rented behind K2 Recruitment in Market Square.
On 24th April 2016 Brethertons moved to their current premises in Franklin’s House near Pioneer Square. The move into these new offices was the culmination of a 10-year project initiated by CEO Shaun Jardine
Shaun told us, “Brethertons was already a large established law firm based in Banbury and had become the largest law firm in the town. We had always wanted to expand to another location and Bicester, a relatively local buoyant market town with lots of exciting expansion, seemed like an ideal opportunity. Our problem was always finding suitable premises – we didn’t want offices looking like something from a Dickensian novel. Ten years ago Bicester was not blessed with an oversupply of plentiful office accommodation”.
Shaun continued, “I first started negotiating to come into Bicester long before Pioneer Square was opened. What is now Franklin House was originally to be built at the same time as Sainsbury’s and the Vue Cinema complex. However, the 2008 recession meant these plans were put on hold and the building was shelved. When Cherwell District Council decided to develop the site I breathed a great sigh of relief. Whilst the plans were being developed they underwent quite a lot of change although the final building has been a fantastic result. “
Brethertons now occupy 5,000 Square feet. The number of people employed in the Bicester office has doubled since the initial merger and the increase in Bicester office turnover has increased by 96% since the merger.
Shaun added, “Our expansion plans in Bicester are not finished yet. We have sufficient accommodation in Franklins House to accommodate a further 20 staff. We are already planning our strategic growth in the Bicester area and are keen to recruit lawyers to join the practice.”
Shaun confirmed that becoming involved in Bicester Vision through membership was part of Brethertons strategic planning for an opening in Bicester. Shaun says, “As far as I was concerned, it was vitally important that the firm joined and supported organisations which were committed to developing the town and seeking to create jobs and improve the wealth of the local area. For me, it was a no-brainer to join this organisation. I live nearby as do many of my staff and I have a vested interest in Bicester becoming more prosperous.
Shaun confirmed that being a member of Bicester Vision has brought him into contact with like-minded people both in the business and public sector, all of whom care passionately about the future of Bicester. He said “I have made many useful contacts and I am pleased that I have been able to support the work of Bicester Vision. I have benefited from the business networking opportunities that membership brings and enjoyed participating in the discussions held at meetings about the future of Bicester. I believe Brethertons membership of Bicester Vision helps me to plan the strategic growth of my business far more effectively. I regard membership of Bicester Vision as a key part of my firms’ strategy which is to make my business grow, be accessible and comfortable for my customers and to create a great place to live and work for my staff. This way everyone’s a winner.
Name – Brethertons solicitors
Address – Franklins House, Manorsfield Road, Bicester, Oxfordshire, OX26 6EX
Website – www.brethertons.co.uk
Date company formed – 1810
Date Brethertons Opened Office In Bicester – October 2012
Length of time in current premises – 8 months.
Staff in Bicester – 24
Total Staff in Brethertons – 240
