What a year 2020 has been; we are sure this is a sentiment that resonates with most, especially as we approach the final weeks and reflect on its highs and lows.  2020 has certainly provided the lion's share of unique and unexpected challenges and we think everyone has found it difficult to feel optimistic at times.  Despite the challenges, we have embraced the various changes to our working lives and have seen a healthy deal flow, completing some of the signature deals in the Solent region.

Meridian has enjoyed working collaboratively with local firms including Moore Barlow, Shoosmiths, Trethowans, Blake Morgan, DSA, Fiander Tovell, NatWest, HSBC and many others.  We have completed six transactions this year with an average EV of £21m, including the sale of Fareham based Lucketts to National Express plc; Chamonix Estates to Lymington based FirstPort, backed by PE firm Equistone; and Digits Industries to LDC backed Ciphr.  We have also completed the MBO of Projects Austin and Felix, raised acquisition funds for Project Travis, as well as raising working capital and government backed pandemic facilities for a number of clients, and assisted our clients with strategic planning in light of market changes.

In addition to having a busy year and a number of completed transactions, Meridian have celebrated multiple individual team members' successes.  Philip Mettam celebrated his 10th anniversary at Meridian, and both he and Kelly Cheales became directors earlier in the year.

Lastly, Hattie Hole and Prabin Sunar have both progressed their qualification, with Prabin completing the last of his ACA exams becoming an exam qualified Chartered Accountant.

As we enter the Christmas holidays we look forward to reconnecting with everyone in 2021 under (hopefully) more normal working conditions.  We head into the New Year with an extensive pipeline of opportunities and back drop of increased market activity during the last quarter of 2020, lost of positive attitude and promising discussions around new opportunities for next year.

We look forward to continuing to work with the leading professionals in the Solent region and however you are celebrating this year, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!