United Kingdom: M&A/Private Equity

The UK hospitality market has evolved into a dual-force ecosystem, simultaneously attracting international brands seeking European market entry while producing world-class, scalable concepts that command premium valuations from global investors.

Private credit co-investment has evolved from a relationship benefit to a core product feature, driven by investor demand for enhanced returns, portfolio control, and stronger sponsor relationships. This article examines five structural alternatives for credit co-investment programs, analyzing how sponsors can optimize their approach based on execution certainty, regulatory considerations, and investor requirements.

A Court of Appeal case examines whether financial services regulations or property law principles take precedence when a sale and rent back agreement violates the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. The dispute centered on whether innocent parties could recover property transferred to third parties after the original transaction breached regulatory requirements.