Merger creates Europe’s leading forensic scientists

LGC – Europe’s leading independent provider of analytical and diagnostic services – has acquired Forensic Alliance Limited (FAL) – the UK’s largest private sector provider of forensic science services to investigators and the courts. LGC was advised by CMS Cameron McKenna.

The services provided by LGC are fundamental to the effective performance of the police service and the court system, and to the resolution of issues affecting private sector customers. LGC acts for a number of solicitors on their forensic investigations.

A major implication of the acquisition will be the creation of more effective competition in the £200m UK outsourced forensic service market.  The market is itself currently undergoing radical reform with the introduction of formal competitive tendering across 43 police forces in England and Wales.  

Corporate partner Jason Zemmel, who led on the transaction, said: “We are delighted to have been involved in this deal, which as well as continuing LGC’s successful buy and build strategy, will change and improve the market in which the company operates. That kind of impact doesn’t come along every day.”