Brodies poised to snap up Bishops

Edinburgh commercial firm Brodies is to merge with fellow Scottish firm Bishops next month, creating a Caledonian big-hitter that will boast 47 partners and more than 200 fee-earners. The move gives Brodies a foothold in Glasgow, as seven-partner, full-service firm Bishops has offices in both cities. This is the second merger for Brodies in the past 12 months after it swallowed local four-partner commercial property minnow Fyfe Ireland in November. Brodies partners are also toasting a 2005-06 turnover of £20.9m and a profit of £8.48m.