DQ Advocates has played a key role in the acquisition of two Isle of Man betting shops by Ireland’s largest independent bookmaker.
The firm acted for County Louth-based BoyleSports in a deal which saw it snap up two outlets in Douglas, along with 33 in Northern Ireland.
The shops were originally part of the Stanley Leisure chain that William Hill bought in 2005.
DQ represented BoyleSports in acquiring the share capital of Willstan (I.O.M.) Ltd (William Hill bookmakers) and also arranged for the Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission to consent to the acquisition and transfer of the licence.
Barry Smith, Consultant at DQ, said: ‘It has been a great experience working with BoyleSports and advising them on a purchase of this significance. From the outset, my colleagues and I formed a good working relationship with the team and the speed and efficiency of the process benefitted from the professionalism of all involved.
‘We would particularly like to acknowledge the support of all at BoyleSports, and Matthew Sillett and Richard Collis of solicitors Cannings Connolly in London.’
The name of Willstan (I.O.M.) Ltd has now been changed to BS Retail (IOM) Limited, while the two shops, in Castle Street and Castlemona on Douglas Promenade, are to be rebranded as BoyleSports.
The deal is BoyleSports’ largest acquisition to date, bringing its total number of shops in Northern Ireland to 39 and its total retail footprint across Ireland and the British Isles to 343 shops.
DQ has acted for many major gaming entities in recent years, including an historical listing on The International Stock Exchange in 2018.
Managing Director Mark Dougherty added: ‘There is no doubt this is a deal which further highlights our pedigree as law firm to represent and advise leading gaming operations on acquisitions, transactions, obtaining licences and general regulatory compliance.
‘Continued instruction by major companies in this area also lays testament to our reputation to build excellent relationships with the regulators, trust and corporate service providers onshore and offshore.’
