Law firm Gordons, which has a base in Bradford dating back to Victorian times, has announced its eleventh successive year of growth and launched its new brand.

The firm, which counts Bradford-based Morrisons supermarket group among its business clients, grew turnover by more than eight per cent in the year to the end of April to £25.3 million.

The firm’s financial performance was boosted by winning key clients such as major Chinese retailer Bosideng – which owns the historic Bradford-based Greenwoods Menswear business – German manufacturer Weidenhammer – which launched its first UK venture with a £10 million carton-making plant at Buttershaw, Bradford – and Saudi Arabian Airlines.

Gordons also launched its groundbreaking apprenticeship programme, with five West Yorkshire A-level students joining a four-year programme that will see them qualify as legal executives.

Over the past 12 months, the firm has also recruited 50 fee earners and has further expansion planned, including in its Bradford office.

Gordons, which has its roots in Bradford dating back to 1844, said its increased turnover had been achieved in spite of difficult economic conditions and was confident that this could be maintained and that recent investments would make significant contributions in the year ahead.

The firm used Guiseley brand design consultancy Elmwood to develop its new brand, which is designed to define what is different about Gordons.

Paul Ayre, Gordons managing partner, said: “We are fortunate to have excellent and committed people who believe in the firm’s distinct approach and the support of a loyal and expanding client base. This is a powerful combination which has enabled our business to grow continually since arriving in Leeds in 2000.

“Working with Elmwood has allowed us to distil what sets us apart and clearly define what is special about Gordons.

“We remain totally focused on serving our clients and building the lasting relationships that underpin our success.

“We do things differently at Gordons in our focus on giving straightforward advice relevant in the real world in a way that is welcomed by clients. The outlook remains tough, but it is not in our nature to rest on our laurels. To maintain our momentum we must remain true to ourselves and our culture and our new brand will undoubtedly help us do this.

“We will not forget that our success is built on being trusted and valued by our clients and that this must be the central focus in all that we do.

“We believe that there are good prospects for well run and ambitious law firms and we view the future with optimism.”