Freshfields is advising Aon plc, a leading global professional services firm, on the acquisition of UK insurance broker Griffiths & Armour (‘G&A’), following which G&A will become wholly-owned by Aon UK Limited. Griffiths & Armour has established a market-leading presence from their base in the north of England as well as a strong national and international reputation. With around 200 employees, Griffiths & Armour are known for their specialist expertise in professional indemnity insurance and strength in general insurance broking. The Freshfields team in London advising on the transaction was led by partner George Swan, senior associate Maria Zaitseva and associate Danyela van der Sande. Partner James Smethurst advised on regulatory matters, partner Martin McElwee advised on antitrust matters, partner Dawn Heath led on pensions, partner Ali Sallaway on litigation matters and partner Paul Davison on tax issues. Matheson LLP advised Aon plc as to issues of Irish law.