Client Success Insights: Neil Percival – from family firm to global aviation success
When Neil Percival joined his parents’ business in 1985, he couldn’t have known just how far it would go. What began as a modest sales agency for US aerospace companies has grown into a global name in aviation manufacturing — culminating in the successful sale of the business to a US-based industry peer. Along the way, Blake Morgan has played a pivotal role in supporting that growth, offering trusted legal guidance through critical moments of transition and expansion.
In this edition of Client Success Insights, Neil reflects on his journey, the principles that guided him, and the lasting relationship he built with Blake Morgan and Corporate Partner Manoj Styche-Patel.
A foundation built on family and aviation
The roots of Neil’s business journey go back to 1978, when his father, an aerospace engineer and former Air Force man, founded what was then called Percival Associates. Initially, the company focused on sales and marketing, representing smaller US aerospace firms hoping to break into the European market.
Neil joined the company in 1985, aged 18. “If I’m honest, it was an easy decision — I didn’t really know what I wanted to do,” he admits. But it didn’t take long for that early convenience to turn into deep commitment. “Within a few years, I was completely engaged. I was fired up and wanted to make a success of it.”
The business was, at first, truly a family affair. “It was just the three of us — my dad, my mum handling the accounts, and me getting stuck into the sales side.” That customer-first mentality became the cornerstone of the business.
My dad taught me that if a customer is in trouble, the true test of your value is whether you’re the first person they call.
Pivoting to manufacturing
The company’s evolution into manufacturing began in the early 1990s, spurred by a unique opportunity. British Airways approached them to develop fire containment covers following a tragic crash involving a South African Airways aircraft. “It was a small requirement, but it fit us perfectly at the time,” Neil recalls. The project required aviation approvals and a step into manufacturing — a leap the team was ready to take.
From there, the business grew steadily. “We went from three to eight people, got our own premises near Portsmouth, and started diversifying our product offerings within aviation interiors,” says Neil. The shift allowed them to take control of their destiny, no longer reliant on the shifting priorities of overseas suppliers.
That early pivot paved the way for long-term success. “We built a name for delivering quickly and reliably, without getting bogged down in long, complex contracts. Our reputation grew, and with it, our client base.”
Working with Blake Morgan: Building a relationship that spans decades
In 2000, Neil faced a pivotal moment. A client wanted to offload part of its manufacturing operations — an asset sale that involved property, equipment, and employees. It was a major step up in complexity. “That’s when I realised we needed a law firm with deeper resources,” Neil says.
He turned to Blake Morgan and was introduced to Manoj Stycle-Patel.
Manoj managed that first transaction, and from then on, became my go-to advisor.
“Whether it was commercial law, property, or employment matters, I’d reach out to Manoj and he’d connect me with the right specialist.”
Over the next 25 years, that relationship deepened. “What I valued most was the consistency. We weren’t shopping around for the cheapest advice — we were building a relationship with people we trusted. I could always rely on Blake Morgan for clear, commercial, and timely guidance.”
Neil’s experience underscores the value of a firm with a full-service offering. “As the business grew, it was essential to have one place to go, with the breadth of expertise to handle everything under one roof.”
A defining moment: Responding to 9/11
Neil’s proudest professional moment came in the immediate aftermath of the September 11 attacks. “On the 12th of September, British Airways called us,” he remembers. “They needed help securing flight decks urgently. We designed and installed their security measures before Christmas that year.”
That rapid response, under extreme pressure, was a testament to the company’s agility and deep understanding of the industry. It also highlighted why customers trusted Neil’s business in moments of crisis.
Preparing for the next chapter
After decades of growth, Neil began to consider stepping away. It was a deeply personal decision. “I took myself away to reflect — physically and mentally. I needed to be 100% sure I was doing the right thing.”
Once the decision was made, the process of selling the business began — and once again, Blake Morgan was by his side.
The sale process was completely alien to me. But the support I received from Manoj, and the wider team — especially Toby (Price) and Katie (Newham) — was outstanding.
Neil speaks with genuine admiration for the Blake Morgan team. “Their commitment, their work ethic, and their ability to explain complex legal matters in plain English — I honestly can’t speak highly enough of them.”
A strategic sale to the right partner
The buyer, Jet Parts Engineering, is a US-based aerospace business operating in a complementary area of the market. “We weren’t looking to sell to a competitor,” Neil explains. “We wanted someone who shared our values, spoke our language, and would give our people the best opportunity for success.”
The match was ideal. “Jet Parts Engineering is strong in the US; we’re strong in Europe and the Middle East. There’s very little overlap — just lots of opportunity.”
Neil’s dual goals — achieving a fair price and securing a future for his team — were met. “This wasn’t just about exiting. It was about finding a safe pair of hands.”
Advice for the next generation
Now retired, Neil is taking time to reflect. “It’s only been a few weeks, so I’m still processing it,” he admits. But he’s clear on what made him successful: resilience, a passion for aviation, and a relentless focus on customers.
“You’ve got to love what you do,” he says. “And you’ve got to be nice to people — because when you need help, that goodwill comes back to you.”
Final thoughts
Neil Percival’s story is one of transformation — from a family-run sales agency to a respected aviation manufacturer with international reach. At every key juncture, Blake Morgan was there, providing the legal expertise, strategic guidance, and trusted relationships that allowed the business to grow and thrive.
As Neil steps into the next phase of life, his legacy continues through the company he built — and the partnerships that helped make it happen.
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