Top Five Legal Challenges Facing Manchester Businesses in 2026

With recent reports indicating that Greater Manchester now boasts the UK’s largest economy outside London, local businesses face an increasingly complex legal landscape on the horizon. As Manchester continues to solidify its position as one of the UK’s leading business hubs, business owners and directors must prepare for new and evolving regulatory obligations. 

At Glaisyers ETL, our corporate and commercial team specialise in expertly guiding businesses through the intricate landscape of company transactions, mergers, acquisitions, strategic growth, commercial contracts, and terms and conditions. We work closely with SMEs across the Northwest to provide clear legal advice that enables confident growth, amidst any challenges you may face.  

Here, we’ll explore some of the potential challenges you can expect to face in a rapidly growing professional environment, and how we can help you overcome them.  

Complex Growth Transactions

Mergers, acquisitions, and investment deals will be a huge part of many SMEs’ growth strategies, but these transactions don’t come without their own intricate legal, financial, and regulatory hurdles. Careful due diligence and well-structured agreements are essential to avoid costly disputes. At Glaisyers ETL, we specialise in supporting clients from inception to completion, ensuring each transaction runs smoothly and delivers desired results.

Restructuring

As the Manchester economy evolves, many businesses are considering reorganisations and expansions into new markets. If supported by robust legal foundations, restructurings like these can unlock a plethora of opportunities. Glaisyers can help SMEs develop the right framework to achieve sustainable growth, including implementing appropriate corporate governance and structures, as well as shareholder arrangements. 

Commercial Contracts

A fool-proof contract, as we know, is the foundation of every compliant organisation. From supplier agreements to customer terms and digital trading conditions, clear and enforceable contracts are vital for protecting your interests and managing commercial risk. Glaisyers’ commercial lawyers provide practical advice on drafting, reviewing, and negotiating agreements that reflect your business priorities and protect your organisation.

Compliance

We’ve seen a huge shift in regulatory obligations this year, from ongoing Companies House reforms to data protection and evolving ESG reporting expectations. Regular compliance reviews and proactive legal guidance can help businesses meet their obligations confidently and maintain good corporate governance.

Risk Management

Businesses that begin planning their long-term exit or investment strategy early are the ones who will experience the most straightforward process, maximising value and avoiding legal pitfalls when the time comes to sell or attract investors. Poorly structured deals, unclear shareholder rights, or overlooked warranties can all cause issues later, so acting now to build strategies that balance growth ambitions with practical risk management is strongly advised. 

We know what drives business in the Northwest, and whether you’re preparing for an acquisition, reviewing contracts, or planning your next phase of growth, the right legal support can make all the difference.

Book a consultation with our team today to discuss how we can help your SME to thrive in 2026 and beyond.