Burges Salmon hands out 5% bonuses after profits surge

Burges Salmon is handing out 5% bonuses to all staff after posting another year of strong growth.

Turnover rose 9% to £178 million in the year ending 30 April 2025 while net profit surged 25% to £63 million - although PEP stayed flat at £660,000.

The results mark a slowdown from last year’s blockbuster 27% revenue increase, but the firm pointed to the continued success of its five-year "BAmbitious" strategy, with revenue up almost 50% and headcount up 40% since it began in 2021.

Bigger picture

Burges Salmon saw strong performances in its financial services (22%), built environment (18%) and energy and utilities (11%) sectors, while also clocking double-digit revenue growth in practices including construction, corporate, pensions, planning, real estate and private clients.

It also said international referrals accounted for around 15% of turnover last year, highlighting Germany and US as particularly important markets outside the UK.

The firm is one of several UK players to reward staff after a strong year of financial results this reporting season. Fladgate handed out £2,500 following a record performance, Shoosmiths set aside a £3.5 million bonus pool for its 1,300 eligible staff, while Bristol rival Osborne Clarke awarded 5% bonuses across the firm.

What they said

Roger Bull, managing partner, said: "This year’s results reflect the strength of our strategic focus and the dedication of our people. Our growth is not only financial but cultural and operational, driven by our commitment to our clients, our markets, and our values."

Senior partner Ross Fairley commented: "We continue to invest in the future, embracing innovation and ensuring that Burges Salmon remains a resilient, inclusive, and ambitious firm.

"As we enter the final year of our BAmbitious Strategy, we are proud of what we’ve achieved and excited about what lies ahead. Our people are the heart of our success, and together we will continue to build a firm that flourishes."