EU and competition in Austria

Binder Grösswang

The ‘fantastic team’ at Binder Grösswang is sought after for representation in major multi-jurisdictional cartel matters and high-value mergers, with noted expertise in Phase II merger control proceedings and particular experience advising the automotive, food retail and wholesale sectors. Leading the team is ‘smart strategist’ Raoul Hoffer, whose practice spans Austrian and European merger control and antitrust law. These are also areas of focus for ‘excellent competition lawyer’ Christine Dietz. Isabelle Innerhofer specialises in cases of unfair competition and market dominance, and both she and Christoph Raab handle private enforcement proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Raoul Hoffer


Other key lawyers:

Christine Dietz; Isabelle Innerhofer; Christoph Raab


Testimonials

‘Raoul Hoffer is extremely experienced and a smart strategist. Christine Dietz is a great team player who can be relied upon at all times. It is a pleasure to work with Raoul and Christine – even under pressure and in extremely complex proceedings.’

‘A fantastic team that delivers genuinely practical advice on navigating Austrian merger control requirements. It is always my very strong preference to use this team if possible.’

‘This is an extraordinary team dealing with every aspect of competition law in the most efficient way. It is a very diverse and technology driven team. Always a very efficient and pleasant cooperation.’

‘Christine Dietz is an excellent competition lawyer, always available, extremely efficient and pleasant to work with. She really stands out and also manages her team in an efficient and pleasant way.’

‘Christine Dietz and Christoph Raab are always willing to go the extra mile, You can always count on them.’

‘I know and would highly recommend Isabelle Innerhofer and Christine Dietz for any Austrian competition law work. They have a top competition practice there, including antitrust damages cases. They are also very active internationally. Brilliant lawyers.’

‘I have worked mostly with Isabelle Innerhofer, who is a trustworthy professional with a great commitment to her job. She is very pragmatic, straight to the point and a sophisticated lawyer.’

‘Outstanding quality of legal advice. Acting swiftly in anticipation of all possible solutions and problems for their clients. Excellent and highly recommended team with a lot of experience in high profile multi-jurisdictional filings. Very pragmatic and practical.’

Key clients

3i Investments


Advent International


Aptiv


Argand


Armira


Azelis


Beretta Holding S.A.


Berglandmilch


BNP Paribas


Cargill Incorporated


City of Vienna


Coca-Cola HBC Austria


Comer Industries S.p.A.


Daimler


Dussmann Group


Dutch National Lottery


eBay Inc.


Estée Lauder


Faerch


FSN Capital Partners


Grünenthal


Hansa-Flex AG


Imker Capital Partners


Indorama


KIA


Kingspan


Lenzing


Lidl Österreich


Merck Sharp & Dohme


Mutares


Nissan Center Europe


Nomad Foods


ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG


ORLEN S.A.


Prysmian Group


Rail Cargo Austria


Region of Upper Austria


Regit GmbH


Renault Austria


Riverside


Röhm Holding GmbH


Sandvik


SCANIA CV AB


Schaeff Holding AG


Semperit


Siemens Energy


Smurfit Kappa


Sutterlüty Handels GmbH


Thermo Fischer Scientific Inc.


Tikehau Capital


TIWAG


TX Group


VF Corporation


Wiener Wohnen


Wienerberger AG


Work highlights


  • Advised Wienerberger AG on the acquisition of its competitor Terreal Group, including navigating Phase II proceedings in Austria.
  • Acted for Merck Sharp & Dohme in connection with its USD$10.8bn acquisition of the biotech research company Prometheus.
  • Represented inter alia the City of Vienna and ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG with regard to the investigation into Austria’s biggest ever exposed cartel.

bpv Hügel

bpv Hügel acts for a number of household names on EU competition proceedings and also advises on antitrust and FDI regulations, working closely with the firm’s Brussels-based team. The practice is frequently requested for high profile cartel proceedings, where it acts for defendants in a variety of sectors, most notably energy, telecoms and waste management among others. The firm’s competition matters are led by Astrid Ablasser-Neuhuber and Florian Neumayr, who handle proceedings before the Austrian competition authority and the courts, while Christian Schneider leads on European competition matters. Gerhard Fussenegger splits time between Vienna and Brussels, advising on antitrust, merger control and market dominance. Austrian FDI regulations fall under the remit of Sebastian Reiter.

Practice head(s):

Astrid Ablasser-Neuhuber; Florian Neumayr; Christian Schneider


Other key lawyers:

Gerhard Fussenegger; Sebastian Reiter


Testimonials

‘Up to date, hands on.’

‘Florian Neumayr has very good market understanding and regularly finds practicable answers for complex issues.’

‘Strong subject knowledge, practical solutions, always available.’ 

‘Florian Neumayr provides outstanding services, always respecting his client’s needs.’

‘The firm has good market know-how and a pragmatic approach to complex cases.’

‘Florian Neumayr is very hands on, diligent and easy to reach!’

‘There is always someone, mostly Astrid Ablasser-Neuhuber, from the team available who takes time for us and our concerns, even in situations of greatest stress, and always without letting us feel it.’

‘Astrid Ablasser-Neuhuber brings incredibly comprehensive knowledge to the table, can break down complicated issues to the essentials in a fraction of a second and is always finding pragmatic solutions.’

Key clients

EEX European Energy Exchange (Deutsche Börse AG)


Austrian Bar


ISS


IGEPA


Paul Bauder GmbH


cargo-partner


Fronius


Yamaha


Kostmann


Eurazeo


A1 Telekom Austria


OMV AG


Gas Connect Austria


RWA Raiffeisen Ware Austria


BayWa AG


BP Europa


Beiersdorf


Axel Springer


Verbund


Plansee


card complete (Visa)


BAT British American Tobacco


Nichicon


Borealis AG


Austrian Chamber of Pharmacists


Raiffeisen Holding Niederösterreich-Wien


Immofinanz


Otis


Colgate-Palmolive


Eaton


Fond Of


Work highlights


  • Advised longstanding client BP on all Austrian antitrust matters.
  • Represented Kostmann in a leniency application as part of the largest antitrust proceeding in Austria since WWII.

Cerha Hempel

Bringing to bear a ‘profound comprehension of Austrian and EU competition law,’ Cerha Hempel is often instructed on mergers and cartel cases spanning multiple European jurisdictions, assisting on merger control proceedings, and providing advice on FDI regulations and subsidy screenings. The firm acts for clients bringing private enforcement claims for damages as a result of cartel operations and is also noted for its state aid practice. Practice head Bernhard Kofler-Senoner frequently appears before EU bodies on both cartel matters and merger proceedings, including Phase II hearings. Anna Wolf-Posch offers extensive experience in merger control and FDI notifications, which she coordinates in Austria and across the CEE region, while Hans Kristoferitsch is noted for his knowledge of state aid regulations, representing clients in such matters before the ECJ.

Practice head(s):

Bernhard Kofler-Senoner


Other key lawyers:

Anna Wolf-Posch; Hans Kristoferitsch; Stefan Huber; Michael Mayer; Philipp Schaubach


Testimonials

‘They take the time not only to deal with the specific legal problems, but also to understand the background and working methods as well as the corporate culture of the clients’

‘The team is very responsive and provides comprehensive advice that is targeted to our business needs.’

‘Bernhard Kofler-Senoner is very approachable and is able to blend the legal needs and commercial imperatives of clients seamlessly.’

‘Their dedication, expertise, and the unique qualities they bring to the table have made a significant impact on our success. They consistently go above and beyond to deliver outstanding results.’

‘Bernhard Kofler-Senoner, Stefan Huber and Michael Mayer deserve special recognition. Their experience and knowledge of our industry have been instrumental in achieving our goals. They are not only subject-matter experts but also effective leaders who inspire and motivate the team to excel.’

‘I have had the privilege of working with an exceptional team of individuals, and what sets them apart from competitors is truly remarkable. Their dedication, expertise, and the unique qualities they bring to the table have had a significant impact on our success.’

‘Anna Wolf-Posch is experienced, friendly and great to work with.’

‘Their profound comprehension of Austrian and EU competition law ensures that we receive multifaceted support. They advise on vital competition law matters and ensure strict adherence to the UTP Directive, along with Austrian and EU whistleblowing norms.’

Key clients

STRABAG SE


SUNPOR KUNSTSTOFF GmbH/O N Sunde AS


RHI Magnesita N.V.


Novomatic AG


Doppelmayr Seilbahnen GmbH


Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited


PIERER Mobility AG/KTM AG


Pittel + Brausewetter Gesellschaft m.b.H.


SPAR HOLDING AG and the City of Vienna


Omnes Capital S.A.S.


Republic of Austria


Work highlights


  • Advised SUNPOR KUNSTSTOFF GmbH and its parent company O N Sunde AS in EU Commission cartel infringement proceedings concerning styrene monomer.
  • Acted for RHI Magnesita N.V. on its acquisition of certain subsidiaries of Seven Refractories, securing Phase I merger control approval in Austria.
  • Advised PIERER Mobility AG on its acquisition of the Vöcklabrucker Metallgießerei Dambauer GmbH, including merger control filings in Austria.

E+H Rechtsanwälte GmbH

E+H Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s ‘proactive, pragmatic and solution-oriented’ team advises clients in the pharmaceutical, healthcare and transport sectors on cartel and merger proceedings in the EU, with Jochen Anweiler leading on such matters from the firm’s Brussels office. The firm also takes instructions concerning Austria’s FDI regulations. Dieter Thalhammer spearheads the firm’s competition group, specialising in antitrust compliance, cartel investigations and merger controls. Judith Feldner represents clients in EU and Austrian merger and investment control proceedings, while Andreas Zellhofer combines abuse of dominance expertise with a strong IP/IT practice.

Practice head(s):

Dieter Thalhammer


Other key lawyers:

Andreas Zellhofer; Judith Feldner; Jochen Anweiler; Felix Frommelt; William Redl


Testimonials

‘The antitrust team at E+H Rechtsanwälte is very proactive, pragmatic and solution-oriented. At the same time, they are technically very strong.’

‘Jochen Anweiler is an outstanding competition lawyer and it is always a great pleasure to work with him. He is technically outstanding and always on the ball. ‘

‘Judith Feldner is the go-to person for all our deals globally that require Austrian merger control filings. She is super responsive, an excellent advocate and one of the leading individuals in her age class in merger control in Austria.’

‘The team has a track record that is second to none in Austrian merger control proceedings before the regulator and the courts. They integrate perfectly with larger international teams and economists.’

‘Dieter Thalhammer has extensive experience and impressive skills in advising international clients on Austrian antitrust law. Felix Frommelt is a very well versed advisor with a top notch knowledge of the legal environment and his clients’ businesses. You want Felix on your team.’

‘Solution-oriented. Excellent collaboration. Great network.’

‘The team has a great know-how of competition law, is very experienced and works well together.’

‘I particularly appreciate working with Judith Feldner. She is very experienced in merger control work, remains calm in critical situations, is very responsive, knows how to handle difficult cases and has established a very good team around her.’

Key clients

Meta (Facebook)


Austrian Airlines


Volvo Trucks


Toyota


ÖBB


OMV


STARK Group


Amgen Inc.


Rail Cargo Austria


BWT


Work highlights


  • Represented Meta in proceedings regarding the violation of the Austrian standstill obligation with regard to its acquisition of GIPHY, as well as in respective Austrian Phase II merger control proceedings.
  • Defended Volvo/Renault in litigation claiming damages from the trucks cartel, including at the appellate level.
  • Act for Austrian Airlines in state aid proceedings before the ECJ.

Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte)

Described as a ‘top team for all competition law matters,’ Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) assists clients with filing merger control applications and clearing Phase I and II merger control proceedings, and is well versed in defending private cartel damages claims. The ‘very hands-on’ Christoph Haid leads the team, advising on cross-border merger filings and leniency applications, while Hanno Wollmann represents an extensive range of clients in public and private competition litigation, including cartel damages claims. Franz Urlesberger supports clients seeking to implement antitrust compliance measures, as does primarily Brussels-based Volker Weiss, who also advises on FDI regulations. Stefanie Stegbauer adds expertise in internal audits and e-discovery.

Practice head(s):

Christoph Haid


Other key lawyers:

Hanno Wollmann; Franz Urlesberger; Volker Weiss; Stefanie Stegbauer


Testimonials

‘The team is extremely well positioned for merger filings in Austria. No other firm knows the BWB (Austrian Competition Authority) as well and can offer as efficient and successful filings and proceedings.’

‘Volker Weiss has probably done most merger filings in Austria in the past decade or so. Franz Urlesberger is also extremely experienced and an asset to the market.’

‘Top team for all competition law matters.’

‘Franz Urlesberger: leading competition lawyer. Christoph Haid: very hands-on and pragmatic, good knowledge of eastern European jurisdictions. Stefanie Stegbauer: very responsive and excellent to work with.’

‘Schoenherr is the top team in Austria for EU and Austrian competition law, as well as central/eastern Europe.’

‘It is always a pleasure working with Volker Weiss, one of the most dedicated competition lawyers I know.’

‘The Schoenherr competition law practice is extremely broad because it covers all of eastern and south-eastern Europe. It is an excellent one-stop-shop for this region.’

‘Christoph Haid is one of the most responsive lawyers around. He gives quick and commercially sound advice.’

Key clients

Red Bull


Österreichische Beteiligungs AG


FUJIFILM Corporation


OMV


voestalpine Railway Systems


Google LLC


KONE


AGRANA


UNIQA


Silgan Holding


ORF


Herba Chemosan


Heineken Group/Brau Union Österreich


UBER


EXAA


Erste Group


UniCredit Bank Austria


Raiffeisen Bank International


REWE International AG


Oberbank


Nexi


Mediaset


ProPellets


Work highlights


  • Advised OMV on its divestment of their Slovenian wholesale and retail business.
  • Represented Daimler AG against damage claims following the EU Commission’s trucks case.
  • Advised Red Bull in the European Commission’s investigation into alleged infringements of antitrust rules.

CMS Reich-Rohrwig Hainz Rechtsanwälte GmbH

CMS Reich-Rohrwig Hainz Rechtsanwälte GmbH advises clients on a broad spectrum of Austrian and EU competition matters, including merger control and abuse of dominance proceedings, issues surrounding state aid and private damage claims hearings, among several others. The practice is led jointly by Dieter Zandler, who takes on cartel-related instructions, antitrust matters and merger controls, and Bernt Elsner, whose practice straddles competition and procurement law, advising consortia on the competition aspects of tenders, bid rigging and intra-group competition. Marlene Wimmer-Nistelberger specialises in EU state aid law.

Practice head(s):

Dieter Zandler; Bernt Elsner


Other key lawyers:

Marlene Wimmer-Nistelberger; Vanessa Horaceck


Testimonials

‘One of the leading law firms in EU and competition law, hands-on mentality, knows the client and the client’s problems.’

‘Marlene Wimmer-Nistelberger is an exceptional lawyer in the areas of EU, competition and state aid law. She is firm on the details in any European jurisdiction, is a well-known speaker on this topic and always overdelivers on any query.’

‘Precise, practical answers, always available, friendly and very professional.’

‘Dieter Zandler: very broad expertise, always eager and very responsive.’

‘The team is very concentrated and unagitated, but extremely precise in finding the solution to a problem. It sometimes seems playfully easy how the result we want is achieved.’

‘Dieter Zandler in particular is a valuable advisor who understands the economic context very well and makes well-thought-out suggestions for implementing the objectives. His international knowledge is impressive.’

Key clients

Best in Parking


ALPLA


Yildirim


ABB E-mobility AG


DPE Deutsche Private Equity GmbH


Mayr-Melnhof Packaging Group


ABB Asea Brown Boveri Ltd.


Hasslacher Group


Leyrer + Graf Baugesellschaft mbH


Schrott- und Metallhandel M. Kaatsch/Scholz Group


Vienna Tourist Board


Work highlights


  • Advised ALPLA on antitrust and competition law matters regarding a joint venture with Inden Pharma.
  • Acted for Yıldırım on all aspects of its acquisition of Terra Mineral Fertilizer, including Austrian merger controls.
  • Advised Best in Parking on competition and investment control matters in connection with a minority investment by Macquarie Asset Management.

Wolf Theiss Rechtsanwälte GmbH & Co KG

Wolf Theiss Rechtsanwälte GmbH & Co KG delivers ‘high quality and prompt legal advice’ on a spectrum of competition matters, with longstanding expertise in merger controls, cartel matters and abuse of dominance proceedings, and a growing focus on both FDI controls and private enforcement claims resulting from cartel operations. ‘Exceptional antitrust lawyer’ Günter Bauer leads the practice, handling Austrian and EU cartel investigations and leniency applications for a broad range of clients, and Robert Wagner focuses on private enforcement proceedings and cooperation agreements. Stefan Wartinger, who was promoted to partner in September 2023, handles a mixture of cartel and merger control issues.

Practice head(s):

Günter Bauer


Other key lawyers:

Robert Wagner; Stefan Wartinger


Testimonials

‘We have been working on Austrian merger control issues with the Wolf Theiss team for many years. They are very knowledgeable, very responsive and provide practical advice.’

‘Günter Bauer is the lead partner of the practice. I have directly dealt with him many times, he is outstanding.’

‘The Wolf Theiss antitrust team always deliver high quality and prompt legal advice, which meets client needs. There is no question that they will meet deadlines and produce focused and well thought through work product. They are totally reliable.’

‘Günter Bauer is an exceptional antitrust lawyer. He is unrivalled in his knowledge of the merger control regime in Austria and also provided sound advice on the new foreign investment screening regime. He puts clients at ease and makes good recommendations for obtaining solutions to regulatory issues in Austria.’

‘Wolf Theiss has a very a knowledgeable and pragmatic EU and competition practice which does not only provide options, but drives shapes and gets solutions.’

‘Günter Bauer clearly stands out due to his unique ability to combine business, legal, people and various other aspects into a sound strategy.’

‘Wolf Theiss has been my go-to Austrian antitrust (and now FDI) practice for many years. They are very knowledgeable, responsive, commercial and a pleasure to deal with.’

Key clients

Agrofert


CPI Property Group


Farner International


XXXLutz


PORR


Deutsche Telekom


Pfizer


Work highlights


  • Represented AGROFERT in merger control proceedings before the European Commission in relation to its acquisition of the fertilizer and nitrogen business of Borealis Group.
  • Advised XXXLutz Group on all aspects of competition law regarding its public takeover bid for HOME24.
  • Advised CPI in all merger control aspects in connection with takeover offers for all shares of IMMOFINANZ AG, followed by its public takeover of S IMMO AG.

Baker McKenzie Rechtsanwälte LLP & Co KG

Baker McKenzie Rechtsanwälte LLP & Co KG handles a wide breadth of competition matters, with EU cartel investigations a particular area of strength but also covering merger and FDI control matters. The team is especially well versed in competition proceedings in the energy sector. Leading the team is Andreas Traugott, who acts for national and international clients on merger control matters and in cartel proceedings, in addition to state aid-related mandates. Anita Lukaschek focuses on leniency filings and contentious competition matters.

Practice head(s):

Andreas Traugott


Other key lawyers:

Anita Lukaschek; Nina Lenhard


Testimonials

‘I particularly appreciate the processing time and reliability and also the far-reaching view in the assessment of legal issues. If I have any queries, they respond within a very short time – both by telephone and in writing.’

‘I would like to mention Nina Lenhard, who has provided outstanding support over the past year. The processing of several alternative solution proposals in order to be able to negotiate is particularly important to us and is fully complied with.’

‘Great knowledge of antitrust, competition law and energy law.’

Key clients

STRABAG SE


FCC Group


Schindler AG


Verband Österreichischer Zeitungen


Verbund AG


Colt Technology Services Group Limited


Worldline Financial Services (Europe) SA


Fluidra


Embracer Group A/B


Platinum Equity, LLC


Innofreight


YAGEO Corporation


Pozagas


Work highlights


  • Defended STRABAG in proceedings related to antitrust damages claims resulting from the Austrian construction cartel.
  • Represented FCC Group in an ongoing cartel investigation by the Austrian competition authority.
  • Acted for Verband Österreichischer Zeitungen (Association of Austrian Newspapers) in a state aid complaint before the ECJ in relation to the new Austrian broadcasting support scheme.

Barnert Egermann Illigasch Rechtsanwälte GmbH

Barnert Egermann Illigasch Rechtsanwälte GmbH offers clients from Austria and further afield advice on merger controls and cartel investigations, and is also active in supporting investors in FDI control proceedings. The team is led by Isabella Hartung, who has particular experience in advising the energy sector on competition questions, including merger controls and cartel matters. She is also well versed in the area of state aid and proceedings under Austria’s Investment Control Act.

Practice head(s):

Isabella Hartung


Key clients

ASFINAG


Bertelsmann


EnPro Holdings, Inc


EVN/Netz Niederösterreich


PORR


Gebrüder Weiss


Work highlights


  • Advised BMG Rights Management GmbH on obtaining Austrian merger clearance for their acquisition of Telamo Musik & Unterhaltung GmbH.
  • Advised EnPro Holdings, Inc on Austrian FDI issues and on the Austrian merger filing required for the sale of EnPro’s GGB Business to the Timken Company.

DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH

DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s competition team is noted for its work in EU and Austrian antitrust and merger control proceedings, and also acts for both claimants and defendants in private enforcement cases concerning cartels. The ‘always on point’ Heinrich Kühnert has a broad practice, encompassing merger control, abuse of dominance, and state aid matters, and advising a spectrum of clients that range from energy and transport to media and healthcare. Elisabeth König left for an in-house role in January 2023.

Practice head(s):

Heinrich Kühnert


Testimonials

‘DORDA has a market-leading competition/FDI practice in Austria. They are familiar with global deals, know exactly what their clients expect and are highly responsive.’

‘Heinrich Kühnert is an outstanding FDI expert, with a very pragmatic and helpful approach. He explains difficult and complex matters in an easily understandable way, and global clients, including large PE funds, like working with him very much.’

‘Heinrich Kühnert ensures that colleagues in this team are introduced to the mandate in time in order for steady assistance to be assured.’

‘Heinrich Kühnert’s in-depth industry and market knowledge make him a great pleasure to work with. Being a keen thinker, Dr. Kühnert is always on point and 100% committed to the tasks entrusted to him.’

Key clients

ÖBB Holding AG


Bayer Austria GmbH


Sandoz GmbH


Novartis Pharma Austria


Novartis Pharma GmbH


SAZKA Group


GlaxoSmithKline


Nichicon Corporation


Rail Cargo Austria AG


Kapsch Group


Berndorf AG


Miba AG


Stellantis


AbbVie GmbH/AbbVie Inc


Cordis


Work highlights


  • Representing Nichicon Corporation in appeal proceedings before the European Court of Justice in the capacitors case.

Saxinger, Chalupsky & Partners Rechtsanwälte GmbH (SCWP Schindhelm)

Working in a ‘goal-oriented and focused manner,’ Saxinger, Chalupsky & Partners Rechtsanwälte GmbH (SCWP Schindhelm) specialises in multi-jurisdictional merger filings and also represents clients in cartel matters before the courts. Practice head Christina Hummer marshals a ‘remarkable depth of knowledge’ of European antitrust law, and is instructed by clients seeking to submit merger filings and those facing cartel investigations. Markus Fellner frequently appears before Austrian and European courts in relation to cartel and abuse of dominance proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Christina Hummer


Other key lawyers:

Markus Fellner; Wolfgang Lauss; Kristina Madunic


Testimonials

‘The firm is particularly well positioned as it has 4 offices in Austria and hence, trained lawyers that can assist in case of a dawn raid everywhere in Austria.’

‘Christina Hummer is an extremely dedicated, engaged and highly competent competition lawyer. She manages to explain complex issues to the point to business people, which makes working with her extremely pleasant.’

‘What distinguishes SCWP’s antitrust law team is their unwavering commitment to providing advice that is consistently aligned with the client’s needs. This approach ensures that the team not only navigates legal intricacies effectively but also delivers practical solutions.’

‘Christina Hummer has a remarkable depth of knowledge and experience in antitrust law. She is committed to understanding the respective industry to provide tailored solutions. Wolfgang Lauss is particularly skilled at crafting innovative legal strategies and practical solutions.’

‘The practice is characterised by its excellent legal work at all levels, both by the partners and the other lawyers and associates. Due to the size of the practice, a broad professional spectrum is covered and clients are offered support in all areas of law.’

‘The partners and lawyers with whom we cooperate are characterised by a very high professional quality, good accessibility and timely completion of tasks.’

‘The team works in a goal-oriented and focused manner.’

‘Christina Hummer is a very experienced, client-focused antitrust attorney. She is particularly dedicated and always puts in 200%. On top of this, it is always a pleasure to work with her.’

Key clients

HABAU Hoch- und Tiefbaugesellschaft m.b.H.


Energie AG Oberösterreich Umwelt Service GmbH


Pierer Industrie AG


KTM AG / Pierer Mobility AG


Hofer KG


Hexagon Composites ASA


Hexagon Purus ASA


Shareholders of RICO Group


State of Upper Austria


Heaven Seven GmbH


dm-drogerie markt Verwaltungs GmbH


Schmid Industrieholding GmbH


Invest Unternehmensbeteiligungs AG


EVVA Sicherheitstechnologie GmbH


Medlog Austria GmbH


Heaven S


Work highlights


  • Represented HABAU Hoch- und Tiefbaugesellschaft in the Austrian construction cartel case.
  • Assisted Hofer with long-running competition matters arising from its relationships with suppliers and related pricing issues.

Schima Mayer Starlinger Rechtsanwälte GmbH

The ‘highly skilled, solution-orientated’ team at Schima Mayer Starlinger Rechtsanwälte GmbH acts on merger filings, antitrust cases and immunity applications in Austria and within the EU, with key clients coming from the energy, healthcare, tourism and automotive sectors. ‘Competition expert’ Christian Mayer leads the team, focusing on antitrust matters and merger control proceedings, while also advising clients facing sector inquiries by regulatory bodies. Moritz Am Ende, who is also admitted to the Frankfurt Bar, is noted for his knowledge of state aid law in addition to Austrian and European competition law.

Practice head(s):

Christian Mayer


Other key lawyers:

Moritz Am Ende


Testimonials

‘Very, very smart and well-informed; very good understanding of various markets and market modalities; outperforms all other advisors on the market in my opinion; quick, precise and on point. Outstanding drafting and writing skills.’

‘Schima Mayer Starlinger has supported our company for many years and is the partner we always want to have. They support us exactly when we need it with their profound knowledge.’

‘Moritz Am Ende has outstanding abilities in quick understanding of complex matters. In a sensitive situation, we were very happy to have him as our advisor. He is solution-oriented and has deep knowledge in competition and antitrust law. He went the extra mile for us.’

‘Very nice and friendly team, always caring about the customer’s needs.’

‘In my view, Schima Mayer Starlinger’s EU and competition practice is among the best, if not the best, in Austria. This is evidenced by the highest professional level, close networks among EU bodies, speed, responsiveness and very sympathetic staff.’

‘The Schima Mayer Starlinger team is highly skilled, solution-orientated and provides services at the highest level.’

‘Christian Mayer is a competition expert, very focused, provides the client with superb expertise, straight to the point, it is great working together with him and having him in a team. Moritz Am Ende has great expertise in competition, it was great to work together with him.’

‘Christian Mayer is very pragmatic and very knowledgable. On top of this, he is easy to talk to and always finds good solutions. Moritz Am Ende is also extremely knowledgable and very precise. One can rely on him!’

Key clients

Adomo Group


Association of Austrian Hoteliers


Frimeco Group


Kronehit Radio BetriebsgmbH


Mediaprint Zeitungs- und Zeitschriftenverlag GmbH & Co KG


Montana Aerospace AG


Trans Austria Gasleitung GmbH


Videoslots Ltd


Wien Energie


Work highlights


  • Advised Wien Energie on the establishment of a joint venture with OMV AG for the exploitation of geothermal energy as a heat source for Vienna.
  • Supported Wien Energie in a cooperation project with RheinEnergie and Verbund at the Donaustadt power plant in Vienna that trialled a mixture of hydrogen and natural gas as a fuel source.
  • Advised the Association of Austrian Hoteliers with respect to a wide variety of legal questions, including competition and state aid law.

Taylor Wessing enwc Rechtsanwälte GmbH

Taylor Wessing enwc Rechtsanwälte GmbH represents clients before Austrian and European authorities in competition and antitrust matters, and is also sought after for compliance advice. Martin Eckel leads the team, handling multi-jurisdictional merger control filings across the CEE region, in addition to covering abuse of dominance and penalty proceedings before the courts.

Practice head(s):

Martin Eckel


Testimonials

‘The team has an invaluable expertise in the EU and competition practice. The team’s ability to collaborate and communicate is excellent; they thrive on constant dialogue and collaboration.’

‘Martin Eckel is an exceptional partner. Not only does he have vast knowledge in his field of expertise, but also has a great understanding of foreign legal systems, which makes him an excellent partner to work with in multinational legal transactions and matters.’

Key clients

GeraNova Bruckmann Verlagshaus GmbH


REWE Group


LafargeHolcim Group


Österreichischer Automobil-, Motorrad- und Touring Club


Österreichische Apotheker-Verlagsgesellschaft m.b.H.


Heinzel Group


Europapier Austria GmbH


Pernod Ricard Austria GmbH


“Ring” International Holding AG


Haberkorn


Schmid Metall GmbH


Fritsch BeteiligungsgmbH


Pharmig – Verband der pharmazeutischen Industrie Österreichs


Renate Schubries Beteiligungs GmbH


Kirchdorfer Industries Group


Julius Blum GmbH


Work highlights


  • Advised Heinzel Group on the acquisition of UPM-Kymmene Austria GmbH, which required merger control notifications in Austria, Hungary, Serbia, Slovenia and Ukraine.

DLA Piper Weiss-Tessbach Rechtsanwälte GmbH

Covering a broad range of competition and antitrust matters, the ‘highly co-ordinated’ team at DLA Piper Weiss-Tessbach Rechtsanwälte GmbH handles multi-jurisdictional merger control proceedings and abuse of dominance cases in addition to FDI controls. Marc Lager leads the practice, assisting with cartel issues, horizontal and vertical agreements and merger control hearings. Nicole Daniel, who was promoted to partner in May 2023, handles pan-European competition proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Marc Lager


Other key lawyers:

Nicole Daniel


Testimonials

‘Diversified and numerous team, able to advise very efficiently on complex matters. Cover the full spectrum of services.’

‘Marc Lager: hands-on approach, efficient, with a commercial mindset, easy to work with’

‘The DLA team has been highly co-ordinated across a large litigation matter they manage for us. We value their strategic legal advice that is always commercial too.’

’24/7 availability.’

‘In every team they have all the experience a company needs.’

Key clients

Mondelez


The Carlyle Group


Nipro Europe


Renesas Electronics Corporation


Rudolf Heintel


Entain


Michelin Group


Dentsu Group


Discovery Communications


Korean Air Lines Co


Graphic Packaging International


Maquarie Group


EY Law - Pelzmann Gall Größ Rechtsanwälte GmbH

EY Law - Pelzmann Gall Größ Rechtsanwälte GmbH brings together ‘great experience and expertise’ and its international network to advise clients on merger and FDI control proceedings in Austria and Europe, while also assisting clients with maintaining competition compliance and mitigating risks. David Konrath heads the team and specialises in antitrust proceedings and cross-border merger control matters.

Practice head(s):

David Konrath


Other key lawyers:

Mario Gall


Testimonials

‘The team has great experience and expertise. It is noticeable that the legal tasks of the clients are handled as a team.’

‘Mario Gall and David Konrath take time on all tasks related to the client’s assignment so that the client himself has as little work to do as possible.’

‘EY Law is our go-to place for competition law matters. The team is motivated and has a thorough knowledge of our business. Their advice is practical and efficient.’

‘We enjoy working with David Konrath, he is sharp-minded and very responsive.’

‘Extremely professional and uncomplicated process. A short-term project with a tight timeline was completed on time without any problems. We had the feeling of being in good hands throughout.’

‘Very good job by David Konrath throughout the project. Availability, responsiveness, professionalism, everything was very good.’

Key clients

BWT Group


DMK Group


EY


Geflügelwirtschaft Österreich


GENUI


Infosys


Kawasaki Motors Europe N.V.


Universal Scientific Industrial (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.


Work highlights


  • Advised Universal Scientific Industrial in Austrian merger control proceedings regarding the acquisition of the automotive wireless division from TE Connectivity Ltd.
  • Assisted the BWT Group in competition law matters, including compliance and concerning distribution agreements with sales partners.
  • Acted for the foundations of Julian and Paul Zehetmayr on the sale of their cloud-based e-signature solution provider eversign GmbH to PDFTron.

Fellner Wratzfeld & Partners

Fellner Wratzfeld & Partners acts for clients in the banking and retail sectors among others, advising on merger control filings and with particular expertise in overseeing distressed mergers where restructuring or insolvency proceedings are necessary. Heading the team is Lukas Flener, who handles cross-border merger filings and cartel proceedings, and has further experience in private enforcement matters.

Practice head(s):

Lukas Flener


Key clients

Descours & Cabaud SA


Schweitzer-Mauduit International, Inc


Soravia Group


UniCredit Bank Austria


BAWAG Group


Work highlights


  • Advised a leading Austrian construction company in the ongoing Austrian construction cartel matter.
  • Assisted SORAVIA with the expansion of its luxury hospitality business.
  • Acted for UniCredit Bank Austria on its sale of its fleet management business.

Herbst Kinsky Rechtsanwalte GmbH

Herbst Kinsky Rechtsanwalte GmbH‘s competition team is instructed by both domestic and international clients on merger and FDI control hearings, taking on Phase I and II proceedings before Austria’s competition authorities. The team is led by a three-person team consisting of Christoph Herbst, who is a judge on Austria’s Constitutional Court, Sonja Hebenstreit, who advises on antitrust matters in addition to merger and investment control issues, and Valerie Mayer, who frequently appears before cartel regulators and courts in merger proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Sonja Hebenstreit; Christoph Herbst; Valerie Mayer


Testimonials

‘High engagement, smart argumentation, extraordinary reliability.’

‘The team is very dedicated to its clients and well-connected to colleagues abroad.’

‘Valerie Meyer is a talented young lawyer. It is easy to work with her and she is highly committed to the matter at hand.’

‘We have worked with the Herbst Kinsky team on various transactions in Austria and for most of them the team was fully in charge of the whole merger control process. Their work was very professional, efficient and the collaboration was very easy.’

‘Valerie Mayer is an excellent lawyer, always very attentive and hard-working. The daily collaboration with her is pleasant, she is detail-oriented and has a very good knowledge of the merger control mechanisms in Austria, which helped us greatly in closing transactions.’

‘Valerie Mayer is our key contact and practice group leader of Herbst Kinsky’s EU and antitrust law practice.  The team is terrifically organized, trained and supervised by Valerie. She has built up a strong practice for EU and competition law.’

‘Valerie is an absolute pleasure to work with. Her legal skills are extraordinary, which ensures her advice is always well-argued and comprehensible. Valerie ensures that her advice is pragmatic and hands on, taking into account the peculiarities of the specific matter.’

Key clients

illwerke vkw AG


Terreal Holding S.A.S.


T-Mobile Austria GmbH


Nestlé S.A.


Viessmann Group GmbH


Heise Medien GmbH & Co KG


Norsk Hydro ASA


Treis Asia Pte Ltd.


Invision AG


Star Capital Partnership LLP


Work highlights


  • Advised Terreal Holding S.A.S. in merger proceedings before the Austrian Cartel Court in the course of the acquisition of all of its shares by Wienerberger AG.
  • Assisted an Austrian energy producer with antitrust-related issues in connection with a long-term exclusive energy supply agreement with a major German energy provider.
  • Represented Norsk Hydro ASA in Austrian merger proceedings before the Austrian Federal Competition Authority and the Austrian Federal Cartel Prosecutor regarding the intended acquisition of all shares in Eduard Hueck GmbH & Co. KG and EH Extrusion Verwaltungs GmbH.

MMRA - Michael Mayr

MMRA - Michael Mayr and founding partner Michael Mayr specialise in the full spectrum of Austrian and EU competition law, handling cross-border merger filings and joint ventures, cartel proceedings and abuse of dominance matters. Clients come from a diverse range of sectors, including pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, and media among others. Mayr also has experience in handling FDI control issues.

Practice head(s):

Michael Mayr


Testimonials

Michael Mayr stands out not only because he combines extensive experience in EU, Austrian, international competition law but because he has hands-on experience in particular in complex merger and investment control matters across a range of industries.’

‘Very strong industry knowledge and knowledge of our business. Incredibly short response times.’

‘Combines the strength of an Austria-based boutique with extraordinarily deep EU experience. Possibly the best choice for Austrian counsel in the context of a large EU-centric mergers or investigations. Absolutely pleased with the work products on each assignment.’

Key clients

Adevinta ASA


Doppler Energie


Geis Group


Google LLC


Meridiam SAS


Work highlights


  • Advised Adevinta ASA on its ongoing compliance with conditions imposed by the Austrian competition authority in connection with its acquisition of eBay’s classified ads business.
  • Advised Meridiam SAS on EU and Austrian merger control aspects of the formation of a fibre network joint venture with T-Mobile Austria.
  • Advised Doppler Energie GmbH on its intended sale of its network of 266 petrol stations in Austria to Orlen SA.

Schindler Attorneys

Schindler Attorneys brings a ‘competent, effective approach’ to Austrian and EU competition law, advising clients on FDI and merger control proceedings. The team is led by Philippe Kiehl, whose practice encompasses merger control and compliance matters, cartel issues, and cases concerning distribution and sanctions.

Practice head(s):

Philippe Kiehl


Testimonials

‘Philippe Kiehl provided excellent and practicable advice.’

‘A competent, effective approach you can rely on.’

Key clients

Asker Healthcare Group


Egeria


Evoco AG


FUJIFILM


Knapp GmbH


MAN Truck & Bus


TA Associates


Triton


Work highlights


  • Represented Triton in the Austrian FDI proceeding relating to Crayfish BidCo’s voluntary public cash tender offer for all the shares in Caverion.
  • Advised TA Associates in connection with a strategic investment provided to Aptean, obtaining FDI and merger clearance.
  • Represented FUJIFILM in merger control and investment control proceedings in Austria and coordinating investment control proceedings in Slovenia relating to its acquisition of its former distributors in.