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Download the latest M&A review for Q1 2026

As a key partner to the M&A and equity capital markets, Experian publishes regular reports on M&A activity in the UK. This is compiled using data from Experian MarketIQ, which reveals new layers of market insight by combining our global M&A database with comprehensive Companies House data and our market leading business, financial and risk databases. The reports cover UK M&A activity with commentary on trends and values in the market plus regional advisor league tables.

Experian MarketIQ is the essential market intelligence platform for any organisation or professional involved in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) or requiring direct access to comprehensive and high-quality business and financial data.

Read the full review >

Highlights

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UK M&A activity in the opening quarter reflected previously observed “volume down, value up” dynamics.

  • Overall deal volumes fell by 30% year on year, while aggregate disclosed value rose by 36%.
  • More extensive buyer due diligence has contributed to longer periods between deal announcement and completion.
  • Despite large deals driving value, SME transactions (especially sub‑£10m) still account for most deal volume.
  • The UK remains attractive to international investors, with US buyers particularly active.

The opening quarter of the year reinforced the well-established “volume down, value up” dynamic in UK M&A activity. While overall deal volumes declined, transactions that progressed to completion were typically larger in scale, signalling the return of well-capitalised strategic and financial buyers deploying capital selectively. More extensive due diligence processes have contributed to longer timelines between announcement and completion, reflecting a more cautious and disciplined approach to execution. Despite this, the UK’s core SME segment continued to underpin overall market activity, with domestic transactions accounting for the majority of deals.

Jane Turner, Research Manager, Experian MarketIQ

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Reveal new layers of market understanding

Experian MarketIQ is an essential market intelligence platform for any organisation or professional requiring direct access to comprehensive and high-quality business and financial data.

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