UK Commercial Litigation Surges as High-Value Disputes Reshape the Market

Commercial litigation activity rose sharply across the High Court in 2025, with new data showing claim volumes at their highest levels since before the pandemic and a clear shift toward larger, more complex disputes.

The newly published Solomonic Year in Review 2025: Commercial Litigation Trends reports 8,271 High Court claims were issued in 2025, up 7.2% on the previous year, reflecting renewed claimant appetite and sustained pressure across multiple sectors.

While overall volumes increased, the nature of disputes continues to evolve. The Commercial Court is seeing a concentration of higher-value, strategically significant claims, with judgment values rising markedly. Cross-border disputes remain prominent, reinforcing the UK’s reputation as a trusted forum for resolving complex international litigation.

Insolvency-related activity also remained elevated, with winding-up petitions increasing by 12%, underlining ongoing economic strain across key industries.

Securities litigation under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA) continues to develop, with a number of significant claims progressing through the courts.

Commenting on the Solomonic report, Mark Goodwin, founder and managing partner at Provenio Litigation LLP, said:

“The 2025 data shows that the disputes market is not just growing in volume but changing in character.

“We are seeing a clear concentration of high-value, strategically important cases - often with cross-border dimensions.”

Added Mark:

“In this environment, success depends on focused expertise and decisive strategy. High-value disputes demand lean, specialist teams capable of navigating complexity without distraction.

“As these trends continue into 2026, we expect the market to further polarise - with routine disputes separating from genuinely complex, high-value matters requiring specialist handling.”

Founded in 2019, Provenio Litigation LLP is a specialist business disputes practice. The firm is currently instructed on a number of significant disputes spanning multiple jurisdictions, reflecting its reputation as a leading boutique in high-value commercial litigation.