UK Public M&A: Strategics and Sponsors Sustain Deal Flow Despite Economic Uncertainties

Public company M&A in the U.K. has remained at roughly the level of 2024, with both strategic and financial buyers active, despite uncertainty about issues such as the impact of tariffs. Deal premiums have fallen significantly, however. Partners Craig Kelly and Simon Toms, European counsel Frances Burchall and associate Adeline Bridgwood discuss sector trends, shareholder activism, regulatory developments and the outlook for 2026.