Member News
A leading law firm in the North East is stepping into 2026 after reflecting on an outstanding year of growth and accomplishments in 2025. Highly regarded in the industry for their legal advice for all aspects of personal and business life, the past twelve months have marked a defining chapter for Richard Reed Solicitors, which has cultivated in a year shaped by evolution and a clear sense of forward momentum.
Looking back, the firm feels the past year has been one of meaningful progress, thoughtful investment and continued community impact, and every development has been driven by a shared aim: to keep improving how the firm supports its clients and the wider community.
Sarah Reid, Managing Director, Richard Reed said:
“As we move into 2026, our focus remains exactly where it has always been, delivering high-quality legal advice with a personal and supportive approach, staying closely connected to the region we proudly serve, and building a future shaped by ambition, compassion, and strong community values.
The past twelve months have set a confident tone for what comes next.”
Noteworthy Achievements for 2025 at a glance include:
• Celebrated 77 years in business with a company-wide fresh rebrand
• Award wins - Highly commended for Community Business of the Year at the North East Chamber of Commerce Business Awards and the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme - Bronze Award by the Ministry of Defence
• Continued charity ethos and community support embedded in the firm including fundraising for Love Amelia, Grace House North East, Smart Works, St Cuthberts Hospice and partnering with Impact Family Services
• A commitment to collaborations and the cementing of a host of complimentary sector partnerships to facilitate further growth
• Successful launch, traction and feedback for the’ Legally Sound’ Podcast series
• Relocation to The Beam, one of Sunderland’s most striking modern developments – marking a new era for the firm.
One of the biggest milestones in 2025 came with the unveiling of the firm’s full rebrand, introduced to mark its 77th year in business. The refreshed logo, colour palette and modern visual identity were designed to reflect the dynamic, forward-thinking firm Richard Reed has become, while still honouring the deep roots it has within Sunderland. After almost eight decades of serving the region, the rebrand was a natural step, aligning the firm’s outward image with the quality, culture and ambition that already shaped its work.
This year also saw the launch of one of the firm’s most exciting new projects, Legally Sound, a podcast designed to make legal conversations clearer, more accessible and genuinely useful. Hosted by Managing Director Sarah Reid, the series brings together experts from across the firm alongside contributors from the wider business community and charity partners. Covering topics such as buying your first home, writing a will, understanding workplace rights and navigating business challenges, the podcast has already become a fresh and engaging way to open up everyday legal issues to a wider audience.
Alongside these initiatives, the firm has continued to grow from within. The team itself has expanded, with new solicitors and support staff joining across the firm. Strengthening the workforce has ensured Richard Reed can continue to meet increasing demand, maintain the high standards clients expect, and support its long-term plans for the future.
The firm’s commitment to its community was also recognised on the regional stage when it was highly commended for Community Business of the Year at the North East Chamber of Commerce Business Awards in June. This acknowledgment reflected something that has been particularly visible throughout 2025: Richard Reed’s ongoing dedication to supporting local people, organisations and causes.
Over the past year, the firm has championed several North East charities and community projects, including continued support for Love Amelia, Grace House North East, Smart Works, St Cuthberts Hospice and several staff members even took on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, raising valuable funds for Newcastle Children’s Hospital. Alongside these efforts, the team remained active across a wide range of volunteer days, school engagement initiatives and grassroots community projects, reflecting the firm’s belief in showing up, giving back and being a positive force within the city it serves.
Perhaps the greatest physical change of the year came with the announcement of the firm’s relocation. After decades at its offices on Frederick Street, Richard Reed Solicitors confirmed its move to The Beam, one of Sunderland’s most striking modern developments. The new space offers a bright, open and contemporary working environment designed to support collaboration, innovation and growth. Remaining in the city centre was an important decision for the firm, ensuring it stayed rooted in the Sunderland community while stepping confidently into its next chapter.
Sarah added:
“We are excited about the opportunities ahead. Our success and growth in 2025 set the stage for continued growth and impact and we will continue to focus on delivering exceptional service and achieving results for our clients, whilst also supporting the broader local community.”
