PurpleSpace, the world’s only networking and professional development hub for disability employee resource group leaders, has been acquired by Scope.
This transfer of ownership, which was supported by Talbots Law, enables the Codsall-based charity to continue scaling up its efforts and gives it access to a wealth of expertise, resources and strategic vision to further enhance its impact and drive the business forward. Legal assistance for this deal was entrusted to Mike Linford, Director & Head of Corporate & Commercial, and Andrew Martin, Associate & Solicitor at Talbots Law, which has eleven offices across the Midlands and a team of more than 480 staff.
The team at PurpleSpace were also assisted by Jerroms Corporate Finance. Speaking after the deal, Kate Nash, Founder of PurpleSpace, said: “I always anticipated that as PurpleSpace grew, it would require more investment and a smooth and thoughtful shift from my position as the founding CEO to that of a long-term Ambassador.
“This transition phase is crucial for maintaining consistency, attracting more corporate members, and generating fresh ideas to further advance and expand on our remarkable accomplishments so far. Having begun my own journey at Scope, it feels secure and right to have come full circle to entrust the potential of PurpleSpace into their capable hands.
“I look forward to remaining closely involved and supporting continued success.” She went on to add: “Talbots Law provided us with excellent legal advice.
“At every stage they went the extra mile with their care, their commitment and sensitive dealings. Mike and Andrew were the true dream team.
“Additionally, David Fletcher from Jerroms Corporate Finance guided us through the process step-by-step, ensuring we had a clear understanding to make well-informed decisions.” Mark Hodgkinson, Chief Executive of Scope, continued: “Scope has been proud to be a part of PurpleSpace’s growth as a founding partner of the #PositivelyPurple movement since 2019.
“As an organisation, we know that disabled people will lead the change we know is necessary. We are determined to change the future and together, as a collective movement of disabled people we want to see how we can build a more equitable future through innovative ERGs/Networks.
“We won’t stop until we achieve a society where all disabled people enjoy equality and fairness. Our investment in PurpleSpace delivers on our values and purpose and builds on Kate’s vision.” Talbots Law was founded in Stourbridge in 1991 and now has eleven offices and more than 480 staff.
The company, which is employee-owned, houses specialist teams supporting clients in all areas of personal and commercial law and was ranked as a Tier 2 firm in the 2024 Legal 500 for its disputes work, and as a “Firm to Watch” for its Corporate & Commercial work. Mike Linford, Director & Head of Corporate & Commercial at Talbots Law, concluded: “This deal represents an exciting next chapter for PurpleSpace, giving Kate and the organisation the resources and platform required to create a vital and positive impact on a growing scale.
“It has been our privilege to undertake the legal work for this deal and we look forward to seeing a remarkable business go from strength to strength with this new investment and resource.”
