Lee Crowder set for success with on-line deal register

CORPORATE FINANCE: 'a more proactive approach'A Birmingham law firm which has set up an on-line register for companies wanting to sell up and those looking to buy has made its first successful match.It could be the first stage of a concerted move into non-legal corporate finance work for the firm.Lee Crowder, a 23-partner firm, acted for north London-based Purdie Group on its acquisition of West Bromwich metal spinning company Vadnor for an undisclosed amount.

Two other deals have also been completed via the register.The site is in addition to the more traditional avenue of contacts with local professional intermediaries.After advising Purdie on a recent disposal, Lee Crowder was charged with helping the group find acquisitions.

Corporate partner Mark Hodges said the register was set up 'to provide a more proactive approach than lawyers traditionally do'.Mr Hodges said the register was a case of 'lawyers trying to make it happen.

This puts us higher in the food chain in managing transactions.

The relative importance of the lawyer to the transaction is enhanced'.

It also gives the firm referral opportunities and an introduction fee.Marketing partner Andrew Sparrow added that if the site is successful, the firm will look at expanding the service offered into other corporate finance areas like preparing information memoranda.

Offering space on the register to non-clients 'would make a lot of sense' as well in the longer term, he said.

West midlands firm Hadens acted for Vadnor.LINKS www.leecrowder.co.ukNeil Rose