The specialist Anglo-Dutch team at East Anglian law firm Birketts has advised Netherlands-based automated welding group AWL on an addition to its portfolio in the UK.

AWL, which also already operates in the Czech Republic, China, Mexico and the USA, has acquired Southampton-based ICS Robotics and Automation for an undisclosed sum.

ICS, whose customers span sectors including automotive, agricultural, medical and general manufacturing throughout the UK and Ireland, will continue to operate under its current name and management team.

Ipswich-based Birketts advised AWL on all legal matters, with its team led by Andrew Wood (head of the Anglo Dutch desk) and Ed Savory (corporate) and assisted by a multi-disciplinary team including Ben Clarke and Vicki Mitman (corporate), Paul Palik (commercial), Karl Pocock (tax), Sam Greenhalgh (employment) and Laura Jones (property).

Pieter-Matthijs Fegel, chief financial officer at AWL, said: “Being advised by a law firm that has a dedicated Anglo Dutch desk was very advantageous. The team’s knowledge and service was impressive and the insight and advice provided ensured that everything went according to plan.”

Andrew Wood of Birketts added: “I am delighted that we have been able to assist a major Dutch player in the robotic and automobile sector confirm their presence in the UK and strengthen their European market share and look forward to watching their progress. We are seeing a number of Dutch companies who are now considering their priorities in the UK.”