Burness Paull achieves record turnover growth

Burness Paull has reported its results for the financial year ended 31 March 2026, marking a significant achievement for the firm as it surpassed the £100m turnover threshold for the first time. The annual turnover increased by 12% to £105.2m from £93.5m in the previous year, while profit saw a remarkable increase of 27% to £45.7m compared to £35.9m. This surge is attributed to the benefits of the firm’s ambitious strategy spanning from 2025 to 2028, which prioritises enhancing value for clients by offering high-quality advice and superior service on complex matters within its core commercial service lines.

In recognition of the stellar financial performance, Burness Paull has introduced a 10% all-employee bonus on top of individual performance-related bonuses, ensuring that every employee shares in the firm’s success. Throughout the year, the company strategically invested in its workforce and technology, contributing to notable achievements, including advising Wood Group on its £216m acquisition by Dubai-based Sidara and supporting Cruden Homes on the £1.3bn Granton Waterfront Regeneration Project.

Mark Ellis, managing partner at Burness Paull, expressed his pride in the accomplishment. He remarked, “Surpassing £100m turnover is a significant milestone. We are grateful to our people and delighted to reward everything that has been achieved with the 10% all-employee bonus.” He emphasised the firm's commitment to delivering the highest-quality advice and services, stating, “Our clients – and the provision of the highest-quality advice and service – are the absolute focus of our new strategy."

Peter Lawson, chair at Burness Paull, highlighted the importance of client trust in navigating a volatile economic landscape. He noted, “We are grateful for the trust our clients place in us to help them maximise commercial opportunities and mitigate risks in what remains a challenging operating landscape, characterised by economic uncertainty, high costs and evolving regulation.” Lawson also pointed to the growing demand across various sectors, affirming that the firm's strong financial performance is a testament to its ambitious strategy and unwavering commitment to client success in Scotland’s legal market.