Birketts advises Bugler Group transition

Birketts has provided expert guidance to family-owned Bugler Group Limited during its transition to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). Based in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, Bugler Group has established itself as a significant player in the construction and property development sector since its founding in 1982 by Tom Bugler. With over four decades of experience, the Group focuses on delivering both residential and mixed-use developments throughout London and the South East. This includes the production of homes for housing associations, local authorities, and private sales. In a move to maintain continuity, Andy, Denis, and Kieran Bugler will remain in their current roles within the organisation.

Birketts played a crucial role in guiding Bugler Group through the complexities of transitioning to an employee-owned structure. The legal team, co-led by Ed Savory and Laura Gray, was instrumental in navigating this process. They received support from Freya Palmer on EOT-specific elements, as well as Katy Jarratt-Poole and Nichola Rolt, who provided corporate advice, with Rebecca Hughes focusing on employment guidance.

During the transition, Andy Bugler remarked, “Transitioning to employee ownership represents an exciting new chapter for Bugler Group and provides a strong platform for the long-term future of the business. We are very grateful to Ed, Laura and the wider Birketts team for their guidance throughout the process. Their pragmatic and commercial advice helped us navigate the transition smoothly and gave us confidence at every stage.”

Laura Gray, a Senior Associate at Birketts, expressed her enthusiasm for supporting Bugler Group's shift, stating, “It has been a pleasure to support Bugler Group on its transition to employee ownership. An EOT provides an opportunity to recognise the contribution employees have made to the success of a business while helping to protect its culture, values and long-term independence. We wish everyone at Bugler Group every success as the business begins this next chapter and look forward to seeing it continue to develop under employee ownership.”