Media Release | 22 March 2015

Hall & Wilcox underlines sports industry expertise, advising TLA on ESP acquisition

Leading independent business law firm, Hall & Wilcox, has advised TLA Worldwide plc (AIM: TLA), a leading athlete representation and sports marketing group, on its $25 million acquisition of Elite Sports Properties Holdings Pty Ltd (ESP), an Australian and UK-based athlete management and sports marketing company.

The total maximum consideration of the deal is $25.5 million, payable over a five year period and subject to certain performance conditions.

Hall & Wilcox has previously represented TLA during its purchase of rugby league team Melbourne Storm, and A-League football side Melbourne Heart.

The ESP deal significantly expands TLA’s presence in Australia, while diversifying its activities into new sports and business lines, in particular Australian Rules football, cricket and merchandising. TLA already holds a leading position in Major League Baseball and has a growing presence in golf and rugby union.

Lead partner on the deal, Bruce McFarlane, said the firm enjoyed a strong presence in the sports industry. “The firm’s commercial growth in the Australian sports market, with our team led by Martin Ross has been strong. We’ve built a team with great depth in the sports industry, and our industry expertise came to the fore during the TLA negotiations.”

Others involved in the deal include Mark Lebbon, Lawyer, Alexandra Gallagher, Senior Associate, Keveh Zegrati, and Senior Associate, Karl Rozenberg.