Dundas's not so unique selling point

Dundas & Wilson has just launched a specialist outsourcing unit that it claims is the largest in Scotland. As Dundas partner Laurence Ward puts it: "A dedicated outsourcing team of this size is unique in Scotland."

It might have created the largest dedicated team among Scottish firms, but there are a couple of UK rivals which are not yet quaking in their boots. Especially not the two with significant presences north of the border - DLA Piper and Pinsent Masons.

Dundas has brought together 40 specialists, with 30 of those based in Scotland.

Pinsents' outsourcing, technology and IP team numbers 38 partners and 130 lawyers, 20 of whom are based in Scotland. In terms of outsourcing alone, it has 20 partners and 60 other lawyers - not including the pensions, employment, tax and property lawyers it can draw on. The Dundas 40 does include all those extras.

DLA Piper for its part has around 300 lawyers across the globe practising in its technology, media and communications group. It has 80 in London alone, with around 40 devoted to outsourcing.

Is it the biggest in Scotland? Possibly. Is it unique? Er, no.