Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton continues to operate at the top end of the market, handling a number of high-profile merger control proceedings, cartel and behavioural investigations, and state aid issues, with a strong focus on acting for international names in heavy industrials and tech. The firm has also expanded its share of foreign direct investment control work, as well as advising on changes to foreign subsidies regimes. An extensive senior team, led by the highly experienced Robbert Snelders and Nicholas Levy, offers broad multi-jurisdictional antitrust experience, and was strengthened by the arrival of the versatile Isabel Rooms from Linklaters in April 2022. Other key team members include Christopher Cook, Andris Rimsa, who was promoted to counsel in January 2022, cartel and market dominance expert Antoine Winckler, and Francisco Enrique González-Díaz, who has deep merger control expertise from previous positions at the European Commission, and advises on matter across a diverse range of sectors. Esther Kelly left the firm.
Competition: EU and global in Belgium
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton
Practice head(s):
Nicholas Levy; Robbert Snelders
Other key lawyers:
Christopher Cook; Antoine Winckler; Patrick Bock; Wolfgang Deselaers; Maurits Dolmans; Enrique González-Díaz; Andris Rimsa; Isabel Rooms; François-Charles Laprévote; Thomas Graf; Romano Subiotto
Testimonials
‘Cleary Gottlieb’s Competition Law team distinguishes itself thanks to its partner François-Charles Laprévote. He is an excellent practitioner: his legal advice is not only based on pure technical legal aspects but also on his global understanding of the economic context and even on his significant political vision. These qualities also apply to his relationships with competition authorities, both on merger and on antitrust files, regardless of the authority concerned (French, European or outside EU).’
‘Another strength of this team is their reactivity, even when lawyers from different time zones – even the most remote one from the other – are involved on the same case. In particular, we experienced a case where lawyers were based in Paris, Washington and Beijing, which has evidenced the team’s reactivity, adaptability, technicity and overall efficiency to handle issues both in a smooth and cost efficient manner.’
‘Cleary Gottlieb has the pre-eminent competition law practice in the world. They are subject matter experts who combine their deep knowledge of the law with a sophisticated understanding of their clients’ businesses to offer practical and actionable advice and counsel. They are also very well organized and are able to execute on complex projects in a timely manner.’
Key clients
Broadcom
Veolia
Celanese
Coca Cola
ExxonMobil
GlaxoSmithKline
IBM
LVMH
Schibsted
NVIDIA (Icera)
Vifor Pharma
Whirlpool Corporation
Alstom
Work highlights
- Acting as U.S. and EC antitrust counsel to Broadcom Inc. (Broadcom) in its proposed acquisition of VMware Inc.
- Representing Google in various European and national investigations, litigation, and antitrust and regulatory compliance programmes including in its appeals before the EU General Court.
- Representing Nethys in connection with the proposed acquisition of VOO and Brutélé by Orange.
Clifford Chance
Clifford Chance remains a go-to for major international merger clearances and strategic behavioural investigations in key sectors such as tech and e-commerce, with a blue-chip client base encompassing household names in these industries, alongside major players in financial services, energy, and private equity. The team offers in-house regulatory and cross-border expertise – practice head Richard Blewett previously worked in the firm’s Hong Kong and Beijing offices – and is able to leverage the firm’s global platform for multi-jurisdictional proceedings. Other key team members include the ‘extremely knowledgeable‘ Ashwin Van Rooijen, Anastasios Tomtsis, who handles merger control and state aid matters, and tech sector specialist Dieter Paemen. Counsel Milena Robotham is also noted, specialising in abuse of market power and distribution work in the tech and energy sectors.
Practice head(s):
Richard Blewett
Other key lawyers:
Anastasios Tomtsis; Dieter Paemen; Ashwin van Rooijen; Marc Besen; Miguel Odriozola; Milena Robotham; Aleksander Tombiński; Katharine Missenden
Testimonials
‘Excellent professionals, highly skilled, very responsive, bringing value. We need to explain very few things to trigger their accurate responses, always of the highest quality and with significant added value. It is important that the name is appreciated and opens doors when we have received their opinion, demonstrating the credibility and trust established around the firm.’
‘Highly skilled experts, who deserve our best comments and endorsement for their devotion and significant contribution to our work’
‘Clifford Chance has in Brussels an outstanding team of EU law experts who represent us in high value matters in the field of antitrust law.’
‘Ashwin van Rooijen: extremely knowledgeable, very reliable, strategic minded.’
‘Exceptional legal knowledge and extensive experience advising and dealing with complex competition law matters; keen business mind; clear and concise communication, particularly when communicating to non-lawyers.’
‘Richard Blewett is both an extraordinary lawyer and business partner. His knowledge and experience are outstanding. With an impressive creative mind, focus on problem-solving, and extraordinary capacity to keep calm under pressure, Richard is the support that any in-house team dreams of. His great sense of humour makes it even more pleasant to work with him.’
Key clients
Spotify
Amazon
Epic Games
Carrefour
Oracle
Nokia
AXA
General Electric
Philip Morris International
FairSearch
Work highlights
- Advising Amazon on the multi-jurisdictional merger filings associated with its USD 8.45 billion acquisition of MGM Holdings.
- Representing Spotify in the context of the European Commission’s investigation into Apple’s rules for music streaming developers distributing apps via the App Store.
- Representing FairSearch in the appeals of the Android and Google Search Commission Decision before the EU Courts.
Covington & Burling LLP
Covington & Burling LLP is noted for its strong focus on highly regulated industries, primarily working on complex matters within the energy, life sciences, financial services, and tech sectors. The team offers expertise across complex merger control - notably advising Discovery on its acquisition of WarnerMedia - alongside state aid, which is a particular area of strength for counsel Carole Maczkovics, foreign subsidies regulation, and behavioural investigations, with the team working closely with its US and global offices on large-scale, multi-regulator proceedings, particularly relating to Big Tech. Johan Ysewyn leads the team, and plays a key role in merger control, cartel, and conduct matters, co-ordinating global proceedings, while Christian Ahlborn, noted for his expertise in financial services and mining sector work, joined from Linklaters LLP in August 2022 in a boost to the practice. Counsel Melissa Van Schoorisse is also a name to note for merger and international cartel work, with a notable focus on the media and entertainment space.
Practice head(s):
Johan Ysewyn
Other key lawyers:
Christian Ahlborn; Peter Camesasca; Kevin Coates; Carole Maczkovics; Melissa Van Schoorisse
Testimonials
‘A rare example of combined and deep competition law expertise for the EU, UK and US.’
‘Johan Ysewyn has a unique understanding of the EC and a very helpful network of connections across Brussels’
‘They are one of a tiny number of firms to have top-level practices across the range of competition law topics, from mergers to cartels to major abuse cases. What also makes them stand alone in my view is that Brussels has become a centre of excellence for international competition law litigation, with the firm running multi-billion $/£ cases in Europe, the US, and UK all coordinated from Brussels.’
Key clients
Discovery, Inc.
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd
Deutsche Telekom
Bristol Myers Squibb
Air Products
AstraZeneca
Kohlberg & Co.
Deutsche Börse AG
Renesas Corp.
Eaton Corporation Plc
airBaltic
PSA International / PSA Antwerp
DPG Media Group
Dexia Group
UCB
Work highlights
- Representing Deutsche Telekom in a claim (including in the Court of Appeal) brought by the administrators of Phones 4U, relating to an alleged conspiracy among the UK Mobile Network Operators to put Phones 4U out of business.
- Assisting Renesas, a Japanese semiconductor manufacturer, with the EU and global competition aspects of its €4.9 billion acquisition of Dialog Semiconductor plc.
- Advising Discovery on the global regulatory aspects of its proposed acquisition of AT&T’s WarnerMedia business.
Herbert Smith Freehills LLP
Herbert Smith Freehills LLP handles an array of high-profile, business-critical mandates for global clients across telecoms, tech, consumer goods, and heavy industrials, with strong expertise across merger control, cartel investigations, abuse of dominance, and antitrust litigation. The firm is also noted for its standout work on emerging FDI and subsidy control mandates, particularly in the energy space. Practice head Kyriakos Fountoukakos maintains his successful record in cross-border merger control and behavioural investigations, while Lode Van Den Hende specialises in state aid and international trade issues. Consultant Eric White is another key name for state aid, and Daniel Vowden combines strong merger control capabilities with standout work on FDI rules. Counsel Peter Rowland represents clients throughout investigations and litigation, and senior associate Camille Puech-Baron plays a key role in high-stakes merger proceedings, and senior associate Morris Schonberg is a go-to for state aid and subsidies advice.
Practice head(s):
Kyriakos Fountoukakos
Other key lawyers:
Lode Van Den Hende; Daniel Vowden; Eric White; Peter Rowland; Camille Puech-Baron; Morris Schonberg
Testimonials
‘A great team. They are responsive and knowledgeable. A pleasure to work with, collaborative, and highly experienced in multi-jurisdictional filings.’
‘Kyriakos Fountoukakos distinguishes himself from competitors by his ability to handle complex multi-jurisdictional matters while remaining available and engaged with the detail of each individual jurisdiction. He leads a highly capable team who work well across jurisdictions and are able to integrate seamlessly with teams from clients and other law firms.’
‘The competition team at HSF Brussels office delivers outstanding performance in most complex and twisted EU law issues. They provide well-structured and practical advice with the focus on the client’s objectives. The experience of the team helps to keep bills reasonable as unworkable solutions are filtered out at early stages.’
Key clients
United Group
Hellenic Gas Transmission System Operator (DESFA)
AerCap
Uber
Comcast and Sky UK
Synthomer
British Sugar
British American Tobacco
Aquind
South32 Group
Capital & Counties Properties
Work highlights
- Successfully secured EU clearance and multiple other merger clearances for AerCap’s US$30 billion acquisition of GECAS, the aircraft leasing business of General Electric.
- Advised Comcast and its subsidiary Sky on obtaining EU merger control clearance for the creation of a new joint venture company with ViacomCBS (SkyShowtime).
- Advised and represented United Group on obtaining EU merger control clearance for its €545 million acquisition of rival Greek telecoms operator Wind Hellas.
Jones Day
Jones Day handles a diverse range of complex mandates, including high-value merger reviews, abuse of dominance proceedings, state aid, and sectoral investigations, for a global client base that features leading names in key industries such as telecoms, chemicals, and financial services, among others. The broad practice has expertise across the full range of matters, and is led by the highly experienced Bernard Amory and Alexandre Verheyden. Serge Clerckx is a key name for merger work, and Laurent De Muyter has advised major clients such as Deutsche Telekom on sectoral investigations. Kaarli Eichhorn leads the team’s Nordic practice, and is experienced in multi-jurisdictional merger clearances and global antitrust matters, while Philipp Werner plays a key role in state aid cases. At counsel level, Phillipe Laconte and Geoffroy Van De Walle have represented clients in high-profile proceedings in the telecoms and semiconductor spaces, respectively.
Practice head(s):
Bernard Amory; Alexandre Verheyden
Other key lawyers:
Serge Clerckx; Charlotte Breuvart; Laurent De Muyter; Kaarli Eichhorn; Mario Todino; Philipp Werner; Philippe Laconte; Geoffroy van de Walle; Laurence Van Mullem
Testimonials
‘Charlotte Breuvart – smart, dedicated, provides concrete answers and actionable advice to clients. Geoffroy van de Walle – dedicated, detail oriented, efficient.’
‘They have a fantastic presence in Europe and globally with a strong, broad team that can assist on both small and large matters. The global presence is valuable when considering matters that extend beyond Europe. They are extremely responsive and professional, whilst being commercially minded.’
‘Bernard Amory is hugely experienced and knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with. Geoffroy van de Walle has a very analytical mind, is a clear communicator with great knowledge and understanding of EU proceedings.’
‘Unique know-how in competition law.’
‘Great firm with unique knowledge of anti-competition matters.’
‘Mario Todino is an excellent lawyer and he combines in a unique way, knowledge, experience and availability’
‘The best practice in competition in Brussels’
‘Jones Day’s global antitrust practice is a one-stop shop, with them coordinating quick and thorough merger control analysis across the globe. They learn our business inside and out, and use that knowledge to accelerate analysis. They also are willing to do high level analysis to give directional thinking on potential transactions, which is immensely helpful. Serge Clerckx and his team are practical, nimble and a great partner.’
Key clients
Bank of Italy (Italian Central Bank)
Bombardier Inc.
Deutsche Telekom / T-Mobile
Eastman Chemical Company
Essilor
EDF
Eni
General Electric Company
FCA Bank
Imerys
Mastercard
PIMCO (Pacific Investment Management Company LLC)
Procter & Gamble
RTE (Réseau de Transport d’Electricité)
SAP
Suez
Teréga
Valmet
Work highlights
- Represented Deutsche Telekom before the European Commission; successfully closing a European Commission antitrust investigation in July 2022 on network sharing agreements in a case of critical importance to the telecoms industry to reduce network deployment costs in the wake of 5G investments; and successfully challenging Poland’s auction of spectrum and award of 800 Mhz frequencies on discriminatory terms.
- Represented Eastman in obtaining global antitrust clearances for the $800 million sale of Eastman’s rubber additives assets and business of its Additives & Functional Products to an affiliate of One Rock Capital Partners LLC; and the $1 billion sale of Eastman’s adhesives resins assets and business to Synthomer plc.
- Representing Mastercard in enforcement litigation proceedings in Belgium and the UK in connection with the long-running and high-profile legal debate regarding the legality of certain Mastercard fees paid by retailers.
Latham & Watkins LLP
With standout trans-Atlantic integration across transactional and behavioural work, Latham & Watkins LLP handles an array of high-profile, complex mandates for global clients across a range of industries. The firm is particularly notable for its work in the tech sector, including advising Grail on its merger with Illumina, and representing Microsoft in a series of third-party complaints relating to the Digital Markets Act. The team is led by Brussels managing partner Lars Kjølbye, who is active in securing clearance for major, highly-contested mergers, alongside vice-chair Héctor Armengod, who is noted for his global merger work in the healthcare and life sciences sectors. Other key names include the vastly experienced Sven Völcker, former European Commission official and enforcement specialist Carles Esteva Mosso, and Luca Crocco, who handles complex mergers as well as cartel investigations.
Practice head(s):
Lars Kjølbye; Héctor Armengod
Other key lawyers:
Carles Esteva Mosso; Sven Völcker; Luca Crocco
Testimonials
‘The team is growing strong and diverse. They are available and willing to fulfil their clients’ needs. Very capable team with Lars very present and on top of matters, providing high quality and business oriented advice.’
‘They have a large and very competent team that can advance the European Commission thinking on critical matters, with vast experience across competition topics. Latham provides added value and consistent high quality work. Lars is an invaluable asset and we consider him as part of our team.’
‘The LW team is very approachable and commercial.’
‘They are easy to work with, very knowledgeable, friendly and responsive.’
‘They function very well as a team, not just within Brussels but across London and Brussels, which makes it easy to work with them.’
‘They are truly seamless. They deliver high quality work products and at times feel integrated within the client’s legal team.’
Key clients
American Airlines
Singapore Airlines
Microsoft
Grail
AMD
EssilorLuxottica
The Carlyle Group
Siemens Healthineers
MGM
Work highlights
- Obtained unconditional EU and UK merger clearance on behalf of Microsoft for its US$19.7 billion acquisition of Nuance Communications, a pioneer and a leading provider of conversational AI and cloud-based ambient clinical intelligence for healthcare providers.
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP is noted for its leading role in complex, high-value merger control proceedings, particularly within the tech and digital industries, coordinating European and global approvals for cross-border transactions involving significant regulatory oversight. The team also has expertise in abuse of dominance cases, consumer protection issues, and represents clients before EU courts in antitrust litigation. Leading names in the practice include Ingrid Vandenborre, a key figure for merger and enforcement work in the tech and life sciences space, Frederic Depoortere, who has been active across post-merger issues and parallel investigations, conduct and behavioural specialist Bill Batchelor, and Giorgio Motta, whose work spans mergers, cartel investigations, and state aid matters. Niels Baeten was promoted to counsel in June 2022, and is noted for his state aid expertise.
Practice head(s):
Ingrid Vandenborre; Bill Batchelor; Frederic Depoortere; Giorgio Motta
Other key lawyers:
Niels Baeten
Testimonials
‘Broad legal/ practical knowledge, very business minded and results driven.’
‘High attention, strong expertise and easy to work with.’
Key clients
Activision Blizzard Inc.
Ad Hoc CMTE of Holders of Neovia Holdco
Aspen Pharmacare Holdings Limited
DSV Panalpina A/S
Dupont de Nemours, Inc.
Electronic Arts Inc.
Hg Pooled Management Limited
HP Inc.
Intel Corp.
International Paper Co.
Konecranes Plc.
Mahalo Group Holdings, LLC
NCR Corporation
SK hynix, Inc.
Spotify AB
Stryker Corporation
Visa, Inc.
Willis Towers Watson plc.
Wolt Enterprises Oy
Xilinx, Inc.
Work highlights
- Advised Konecranes plc in connection with its proposed, but terminated, merger with Cargotec Corporation.
- Advising Activision Blizzard Inc. in its US$68.7 billion acquisition by Microsoft Corporation.
- Advising DuPont de Nemours, Inc. in its US$11 billion divestiture of a majority of its Mobility & Materials segment to Celanese Corporation.
Slaughter and May
Slaughter and May stands out for for its combination of solid bench strength in Brussels and close collaboration with its London office, with a number of UK-qualified partners also regularly handling European elements of cross-border cases such as multi-jurisdictional mergers, cartel and sectoral investigations, and competition litigation. The team has standout involvements on behalf of major players in financial services, tech, aviation, and telecoms, and also handles state aid and subsidy control matters. Key names in Brussels include office head Anna Lyle-Smythe, who advises on complex merger reviews, cartel investigations, and competition law compliance, Jordan Ellison, a go-to in the tech and e-commerce space, particularly for matters relating to advertising and the Digital Markets Act, and Kerry O’Connell, who maintains a diverse practice across European and UK competition issues. Jonathan Slade was promoted to partner in May 2022 and has a track record handling market investigations, and senior associate Alexander Chadd remains a key contributor, particularly on Article 101 and 102 cases.
Practice head(s):
Anna Lyle-Smythe
Other key lawyers:
Jonathan Slade; Jordan Ellison; Kerry O’Connell; Alexander Chadd; Bertrand Louveaux; Claire Jeffs
Testimonials
‘Slaughter and May typically uses smaller teams of lawyers than competitor firms and as a result offers good value for money.’
‘Jordan Ellison stands out for his knowledge of the law, practical approach, accessibility and general attitude to challenging legal issues.’
‘Very approachable; business focused advice.’
Key clients
ARM Holdings
ASOS
BHP Group
Booking Holdings
British Airways/IAG
Diageo
DS Smith
GlaxoSmithKline
INEOS
Meggitt
Meta (formerly Facebook)
Nuance Communications
Richemont (Compagnie Financière de Richemont)
S&P Global (including Platts)
Spectris
Stock Spirits
Vodafone
Warner Music Group
Work highlights
- Advising Google in relation to various investigations and market studies by the competition authorities in Europe (notably the EC investigation into its online advertising technology, and the French Competition Authority’s investigation into advertising services), as well as globally (Japan, Australia, and South Africa) in relation to online platforms and digital advertising.
- Advising S&P Global on the international filings for its USD 44 billion merger with IHS Markit.
- Advising Meta in relation to the competition law aspects of its acquisition of Kustomer.
Van Bael & Bellis
Van Bael & Bellis has an extensive senior team with strong experience across transactional and behavioural competition mandates, encompassing cross-border merger control, cartel and abuse of dominance investigations, and litigation before the European Commission and EU courts, including notable victories in follow-on damages and appellate cases. The firm represents major global names in fields such as heavy industrials, tech, and logistics, and has a notable capability in managing parallel investigations involving the EU and CMA where it works in collaboration with its London office, a particular specialism of Andreas Reindl. Andrzej Kmiecik and Porter Elliott lead the team; they have a track records handling merger approval. Other key names include the vastly experienced Jean-François Bellis, Kris Van Hove, who is representing Japan Airlines in its appeal before the Commission, industrials and chemicals sector specialist Markus Wellinger, and Johan Van Acker, noted for his work co-ordinating merger reviews before the Commission and CMA, as well as Phase II investigations. Counsel Catherine Gordley has played a key role in a number of merger and distribution mandates.
Practice head(s):
Andrzej Kmiecik; Porter Elliott
Other key lawyers:
Jean-Francois Bellis; Kris Van Hove; Markus Wellinger; Johan Van Acker; Andreas Reindl; Catherine Gordley; Charlotte Nassogne
Testimonials
‘This firm has a long history and tradition in its EU competition law practice. They have provided excellent legal service in such area to Japanese clients. In addition, they have good ability to communicate with relevant EU officials.’
‘J.F. Bellis: He is an encyclopedia in EU competition law. Although he is a very senior lawyer, he is very responsive to our contact. Kris Van Hove: His advice is always half a step forward for our clients. Charlotte Nassogne: She works very hard for each client. She is very responsive to each contact from clients even if it is urgent.’
‘Mr. Kris Van Hove always assists us very effectively and efficiently. He is always very supportive and responsive.’
‘Top quality law firm with excellent business understanding.’
‘We work mainly with Andreas Reidl who we find highly intelligent and competent with a strong business mindset and understanding of our operations. He always gives top quality legal advice, both in the quality of the legal assessment, the presentation and the way it can be directly applied in our operations. He always responds rapidly and keeps us updated on new legislation and relevant topics.’
Key clients
Association for Competitive Technology (ACT)
Bloomberg
Carlsberg
Eli Lilly
Gigaset
Gilead
Halliburton
Japan Airlines
Neste group
Nike
PPG group
Quaker Houghton
Recylex group
Toyoda Gosei
Umicore group
Utmost Group Limited
Work highlights
- Assisted the Association for Competitive Technology (ACT), a trade association representing more than 5,000 IT firms worldwide, as one of the main interveners in the landmark Intel case.
- Representing Gigaset Communications LLC, a German manufacturer of mobile phones and other telecommunications equipment, as an intervener in support of Google in Google’s appeal against the European Commission’s decision concerning the Android Mobile Platform and resulting in a EUR 4.34 billion fine.
- Representing JAL in the long-running EU Airfreight cartel case, this time in an appeal before the EU courts against the European Commission’s second decision in this matter.
White & Case LLP
White & Case LLP advises a blue-chip global client base throughout major merger review processes, cartel proceedings, and a diverse range of antitrust litigation, including key roles for big tech clients such as Google, which the firm is representing in three separate abuse of dominance investigations by the European Commission. Other sector strengths for the firm include life sciences, pharma, and chemicals. James Killick
and Axel Schulz head up the team, with both enjoying a strong record in merger control cases alongside litigation and investigations, while Assimakis Komninos plays a key role in the firm’s big tech litigation mandates. Jacquelyn MacLennan is noted for her work on the intersection between competition and ESG issues, while Genevra Forwood is also a standout litigator. Strati Sakellariou-Witt leads on major cross-border merger reviews. The vastly experienced Mark Powell specialises in cartel cases and litigation across tech and life sciences, among others.
Practice head(s):
James Killick; Axel Schulz
Other key lawyers:
Assimakis Komninos; Mark Powell; Strati Sakellariou-Witt; Genevra Forwood; Kasia Czapracka; Jacquelyn MacLennan; Irina Trichkovska
Testimonials
‘White & Case has recognized expertise in energy related antitrust matters. They have assisted parties from Eastern Europe, including public sector clients, offering an excellent combination of legal and strategic advice on complex matters. The Brussels team is experienced in all sectors of the industry, with particular focus on electricity, natural gas and renewables. It deals with large-scale projects delivering competent, prompt and pragmatic multidisciplinary advice. The team consists of hard-working professionals with excellent qualification and skills.’
‘Mark Powell possesses strong leadership qualities and has an impressive sense of direction allowing him to think quickly and clearly in a complicated environment, as well as under pressure. A seasoned practitioner, he is able to immediately grasp the legal essence of the problems, their business rationale and provide critical legal support and strategic advice. His communication skills allow him to effectively direct and manage the efforts of internal and external resources, to translate legal concerns in practical terms and get his message across to clients and partners.’
‘Irina Trichkovska is an outstanding lawyer who has shown a talent for making difficult legal issues understandable and solvable while coordinating the work internally and interacting effectively with local counsel and business leads on all organization levels. She is hard-working, with exceptional analytical ability and focus to detail. Irina has considerable experience with clients and cases from the CEE region, allowing her to understand better clients’ needs and provide legal advice with high added value. She is very responsive and, overall, a great person to work with.’
‘The team has very good understanding of the specifics of the client and suggests appropriate solutions for overcoming complicated legal challenges. The team reacts timely, adequately and with responsibility.’
‘There are partners with different background from different jurisdictions, with their ideas and support, available for the project. Proven, updated know-how about the EU DG-COMP structure, who-is-who and what’s on.’
‘Broad based and highly commercial EU law practice with extremely professional and expert advisors.’
‘I work closely both with Mark Powell and Kasia Czapracka. Two first-rate and highly knowledgeable, highly professional and approachable lawyers. Good understanding of the steps needed to get merger transactions cleared. I feel comfortable putting them in front of the most senior decision-makers both inside and outside of my company.’
‘Jacquelyn MacLennan – probably one of the top antitrust practitioners in the world – with global knowledge and plenty of practical experience with a commercial attitude.’
Key clients
Amazon
Merck KGaA
Crédit Agricole
Intermarché Casino Achats (INCAA)
HAL Optical Investments BV (GrandVision)
Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering Co., Ltd. (DSME)
DIC Corporation/Sun Chemical
SIBUR Holding
Synthos SA
Mr Ioan Micula, European Food and others
Servier
Lenovo
Coca-Cola HBC
Nexans
Avast
Liberty Global
Pfizer
GSK
Work highlights
- Advising Google on three separate investigations into alleged abuse of dominance (Google Shopping, Android and Google AdSense).
- Representing Amazon in its appeal against the Commission’s decision to initiate proceedings in the “Buy Box” investigation while allowing Italy to continue with its own investigation of the same issue.
- Representing Merck KGaA, the Germany-based multinational chemical, pharmaceutical and life sciences company, in its successful defence against the allegation made by the European Commission that it provided incorrect or misleading information in the context of the merger notification of Merck KGaA’s acquisition of Sigma Aldrich.
Allen & Overy LLP
Allen & Overy LLP has expanded its European and global competition capabilities in Brussels, welcoming Kristina Nordlander from Sidley Austin LLP in January 2022, bolstering its life sciences and tech expertise, and seeing energy and private equity antitrust specialist Hugh Hollman join the Brussels office from Washington DC. Elsewhere, the team, led by cartel and abuse of dominance expert Dirk Arts, continues to be active across complex multi-jurisdictional merger proceedings, conduct investigations, and emerging issues relating to foreign subsidies, FDI control, and the Digital Markets Act. Counsel Francesca Miotto continues to lead the way on private enforcement.
Practice head(s):
Dirk Arts
Other key lawyers:
Hugh Hollman; Dominic Long; Kristina Nordlander; Francesca Miotto
Key clients
Advent International
Brink’s
General Electric
HP
Kingspan
Recticel
Aramco
Scania
Toyota
Work highlights
- Advising Aramco on the merger control aspects of its acquisition of assets from Polish refiner, PKN Orlen.
- Advised Advent International on the €4 billion sale of allnex Group to PTTGC.
- Representing Scania in one of the largest-ever European cartel cases, where a group of truck makers were found to have colluded over 14 years to fix pricing and pass on costs to customers.
Arnold & Porter
A key part of the firm’s leading global competition practice, Arnold & Porter advises on European approvals for complex, large-cap mergers in key industries such as telecoms, media, and life sciences, as well as co-ordinating cartel, abuse of dominance, and state aid proceedings, including high-profile litigation before the European Commission and EU courts. The firm also has a strong record in cartel damages litigation, and has been active on digital economy matters. The Brussels team is now led by Niels Ersbøll, who has a strong record in merger review for major deals in life sciences and other key regulated industries, and has also played a key role in competition aspects of the Covid-19 vaccine roll-out. Axel Gutermuth continues to be a key name for EU, German, and international merger control work, while counsel Charlotte Simphal, who is qualified to practice in France, is noted for her cartel and restrictive practices work.
Practice head(s):
Niels Christian Ersbøll
Other key lawyers:
Axel Gutermuth; Charlotte Simphal; Lazarinka Naydenova
Testimonials
‘We highly recommend the Competition Law practice at Arnold Porter in Brussels. They have a highly collaborative, approach being flexible to adapt to each specific assignments, besides providing exceptional quality, experience and integrity both on EU competition law but also in other relevant jurisdictions such as US, UK, Germany, etc.’
‘Niels Ersbøll is our contact partner and stands out for his exceptional knowledge and deep understanding of competition law issues applied to the pharma industry. Niels is also highly appreciated for his speed, availability, frequent follow up and ability to adapt the ways of collaboration to the different types of assignment.’
Key clients
AbbVie
AT&T
Belgian government
Boston Scientific Corporation
BP
Bristol-Myers Squibb
Callaway Golf
Cisco Systems
Diageo Great Britain Limited
European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industry Association (EFPIA)
Fitbit
International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA)
Mitsui OSK Lines
Novo Nordisk
Pfizer
Samsung SDI
Thermo Fisher Scientific
Visa Inc.
WM Morrison Supermarkets
Zoetis
Work highlights
- Advised Pfizer on its successful $6.7 billion acquisition of Arena Pharmaceuticals.
- Advised Thermo Fisher in its successful $17.4 billion acquisition of clinical research service provider PPD.
- Advised AT&T in its spin-off of WarnerMedia to its shareholders and the merger of the WarnerMedia business with Discovery.
Ashurst LLP
Ashurst LLP continued its growth with the arrival of highly rated merger, cartel, and abuse of dominance adviser Esther Kelly as partner from Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton in August 2022. The firm handles high-stakes international mergers, cartel and behavioural investigations, and major contentious cases before the ECJ in sectors such as sport, fashion, and financial services. Denis Fosselard heads up the team, focusing on merger proceedings and behavioural cases, while Donald Slater is a standout litigator, representing the likes of UEFA in high-stakes cases before the ECJ and General Court.
Practice head(s):
Denis Fosselard
Other key lawyers:
Donald Slater; Esther Kelly; Denis Waelbroeck
Testimonials
‘I have a very positive experience with Ashurst antitrust practice particularly how they have been able to bring together the EU and national expertise. They have gone the extra miles in addressing complex and new areas of competition law including the intersection with sustainability and regulatory issues.’
‘We work on a regular basis with Professor Denis Waelbroeck. His knowledge of EU competition law is absolutely unique, the best in its category.’
‘Top expertise as well as focused pragmatism.’
Key clients
Alcon
Alfa Acciai S.p.A., Ferreira Valsabbia S.p.A. and Valsabbia Investimenti S.p.A.
Apax Partners LLP
Engie
Eni
Fastweb
IHS Markit
Iliad
Imperial Brands
Luxembourg Government
HeidelbergCement
Tetra Laval/Tetra Pak
UEFA
Unilabs Holding AB
Work highlights
- Acting for UEFA on the SuperLeague, including the preliminary ruling procedure before the ECJ and the national proceedings before the referring Spanish court.
- Advising the Luxembourg Government with respect to alleged state aid cases regarding tax rulings given to individual tax payers both before the EU Courts and in ongoing cases before the EU Commission.
- Assisting Iliad in its ongoing challenge of the European Commission decision to clear the INWIT JV with commitments which Iliad considers insufficient to solve the Commission’s concerns.
Baker McKenzie CVBA/SCRL
Baker McKenzie CVBA/SCRL advises a global client base including major names in life sciences, energy, consumer goods, and tech, on multi-jurisdictional merger clearances, including Phase II investigations, joint venture approvals, sectoral investigations, and state aid applications. The group has expertise across key European jurisdictions, as well as Asia and the US, and regularly works as part of a global team on cross-border mandates. The practice is headed by Kurt Haegeman, who has worked in Japan and takes the lead on major investigations, Fiona Carlin, who offers US experience and focuses on the life sciences, consumer goods, and industrials sectors, and senior counsel Nina Niejahr, a key name for competition and consumer protection issues.
Practice head(s):
Fiona Carlin; Kurt Haegeman; Nina Niejahr
Other key lawyers:
Bram Hoorelbark
Testimonials
‘The team offer very specialised advice which has the benefit of insights in terms of the Commission approach on matters.’
‘Nina Niejhar is a very seasoned state aid practitioner with the ability to understand complex state aid issues and distil them into solution focused advice.’
‘Bram Hoorelbark is also very experienced in state aid and brings a helpful focus to dealing with a range of state aid issues.’
Key clients
Abbott Laboratories
AbbVie/Allergan
ACG Inc
ADM
Allegion
Allianz
ArcelorMittal
Archer Daniels Midland
Arconic
AT&T
Baloise Belgium
Barco
Baxter
Bayer
BBA Aviation
Biogen
Brands for Europe
Brookfield Capital Partners
Camso
Carlsberg
Casio Computer Ltd
Chr. Hansen
Cisco Systems Inc
Cobelfret
Daimler
Danone
De Heus
Dun & Bradstreet
Eastman Chemicals
EFPIA
Embracer
Emerson
Ergon Capital/Keesing
Essity
Faurecia
FedEx
FSN Capital
Gazprom Export LLC
General Electric Company
General Motors
Generali
GlaxoSmithKline
HBO
Hitachi Ltd
HP
IMAA
Intel
Kia
KYB
Larsen & Toubro
Lely
Lindt
Lonza Group
LYC Chemical
Maersk
McDonald’s
Merck
Mirage Holdings
Mitsubishi
MOL
Mondelez
MTU Maintenance
Nielsen Holdings plc
Nordic Capital
Novo Nordisk
Nyrstar
OEP
Peak Achievement Athletics
Philips
Pioneer Europe
Plantronics/Polycom
Recticel
Regency Entertainment and Hellenic Casino Parnitha
Rio Tinto
Rubrik
SABCA
Sappi
Sulzer
TA Associates
Takeda
TVA
UBS
Unilever
Warner Bros
Westinghouse Electric Company LLC
Willis Towers Watson
Zen Noh Grain Corporation
Zespri
Work highlights
- Representing Brands for Europe in the context of the EU review of the Vertical Block Exemption and Guidelines.
- Advised GSK on the merger control and FIR aspects of its USD 500 million divestment of the Cephalosporin antibiotics business to Sandoz.
- Advising Intel on the application for and negotiation of public subsidies/State aid at national and European level state plans to build state-of-the-art production facilities in the EU (initial investment volume around EUR 17 billion) as well as on the implementation of Intel’s larger European investment plan for Europe also involving a R&D and design hub in France, and investments in R&D, manufacturing and foundry services in other EU countries.
Dechert LLP
Dechert LLP‘s ‘hard-working‘ Brussels-based team plays a key role in cross-border merger review proceedings, regularly advising global corporate clients on multi-jurisdictional clearances, as well as handling cartel and abuse of dominance cases, state aid issues, and antitrust litigation including appeals and follow-on damages. The firm’s standout expertise includes work in heavily regulated industries and in matters with national security implications in key sectors such as big tech and energy. Alec Burnside is a vastly experienced figure in the market, handling complex mandates for a significant range of key clients, while Clemens Graf York von Wartenburg is noted for his leading role in the metal packaging cartel investigation, as well as a number of private enforcement actions. Recently promoted partner Michael Okkonen is a key name for merger control and FDI matters, and senior associate Marjolein De Backer remains active in a number of complex investigations, often including issues at the intersection of competition and intellectual property.
Other key lawyers:
Alec Burnside; Marjolein de Backer; Michael Okkonen; Clemens Graf York von Wartenburg; Adam Kindane; Delphine Strohl
Testimonials
‘Unique feature of the team is that they are very responsive and quite low key and hands on.’
‘I worked with Adam Kidane and Clemens Graf York von Wartenburg. Both have outstanding knowledge in competition law, especially merger control. Both are THE go to address especially for tailor made advice. Very responsive and always a pleasure to work with.’
‘Communication has been easy and all individuals we worked with at Dechert have been always available and flexible. Their knowledge and availability has been of great help and brought a lot of added value to our work.’
‘They have assembled a team of dynamic, smart lawyers with deep subject matter knowledge of antitrust and industry intersection, particularly in the tech sector.’
‘Alec Burnside is both smart and self deprecating; he has decades of experience but is always open to discussion. His colleagues Marjolein DeBacker and Delphine Strohl are so responsive and on top of the subject. This is an excellent team to work with.’
‘The team was very efficient in coordinating a multi-jurisdictional merger notification analysis. This is an area with lots of moving parts where thresholds may often change so it is helpful to have a team that closely monitors these developments and offers a one-stop shop approach.’
‘We received timely and concrete commercial advice from Michael Okkonen.’
Key clients
GIC
The Blackstone Group
Columna Capital
Court Square Capital
Crown Holdings, Inc.
CVS Health
Eli Lilly and Company
Fair Trade Advocacy Office
Griffon Corporation
Huhtamaki Oyi
JP Morgan
Marconi
MiddleGround Capital
MidEuropa Partners
Nordic Capital
One Equity Partners (“OEP”)
Groupe Rossel
Scientific Games Corporation
Sinopec
SK Group
T. Rowe Price
US Ecology
Vestiaire Collective
Yelp, Inc. (NYSE: YELP)
Work highlights
- Advised Singaporean sovereign wealth fund GIC in more than 25 transactions.
- Advised Crown Holdings, Inc. a multinational company active in the design, manufacture and sale of packaging products and equipment for consumer goods and industrial products, on the merger control aspects of the sale of its European Tinplate business to KPS Capital Partners, LP.
- Advised Getaroom in connection with inquiries received from the U.S. DOJ, the U.K. Competition & Markets Authority, and the Federal Competition Authority in Austria in connection with Booking Holdings’ acquisition of Getaroom.
Gibson Dunn
Gibson Dunn remains a go-to for complex, high-profile behavioural investigations and antitrust litigation before European courts, with standout involvements on behalf of major tech clients, combining this expertise with strong merger control and state aid work, including advising on European clearances for the likes of VMWare and Elliot Management. The team is headed up by Christian Riis-Madsen, a highly experienced figure praised as the ‘best in the field‘ for hi-tech investigations, and also includes Lena Sandberg, who specialises in state aid advice, and Attila Borsos, who has a prolific record in merger clearances. Counsel Stéphane Frank works on abuse of dominance investigations in a variety of industries, and senior associate Mairi McMartin has played a key role in a number of merger control matters.
Practice head(s):
Christian Riis-Madsen
Other key lawyers:
Lena Sandberg; Attila Borsos; Stéphane Frank; Mairi McMartin
Testimonials
‘Gibson Brussels team is top level, professional and practical. They understand our company and risk appetite and always provide practical yet thorough advice.’
‘Christian Riis-Madsen is simply the best in the field. Always top notch advice, provided on short notice and taking into consideration the practical needs of the client.’
‘The team led by Attila Borsos is reactive and hard working.’
Key clients
News Corporation
General Electric
Merck & Co.
ITD
Elliott Investment Management
Scandlines
Quidel Corporation
KKR
Schlumberger
P&O Ferries
Linklaters
Linklaters handles global merger control proceedings, with expertise in EU and UK clearance processes, alongside strength in conduct investigations, state aid issues, and – increasingly – foreign subsidy and FDI control matters. The firm handles mergers and investigations in key sectors such as heavy industrials, automotives, financial services, and healthcare, which is a key focus for Annamaria Mangiaracina, who regularly works with major life sciences and pharma clients, as well as private equity investors. Practice head Bernd Meyring offers broad expertise in merger and cartel proceedings, and the highly experienced Gerwin Van Gerven regularly advises corporates on developments in antitrust law. Neil Hoolihan was promoted to partner in May 2022, and is noted for his strong capabilities in parallel merger investigations involving the European Commission and CMA. William Leslie, a specialist for EU merger control in the tech and telecom industries, made partner in May 2023.
Practice head(s):
Bernd Meyring
Other key lawyers:
Neil Hoolihan; Annamaria Mangiaracina; Gerwin Van Gerven; William Leslie
Testimonials
‘Linklaters has provided general competition advice in the EU and UK (including on merger control and antitrust issues). Their advice has been timely, insightful and well thought through. We would recommend them for competition advice in the EU and UK. One strength of the team includes their knowledge of financial regulation and collaboration with the firm’s Financial Regulation Group.’
‘Linklaters is among our best outside counsel for appropriate resourcing and efficiently delivering services.’
Key clients
Aperam
Denso
GrandVision
Greiner
Kelkoo
LeasePlan
PWC
Thermo Fisher
Unilever
Vodafone
Work highlights
- Advised TDR Capital and LeasePlan on the contemplated acquisition by ALD, Societe Generale’s car leasing division.
- Advised Greiner AG on its envisaged hostile takeover of Recticel NV/SA.
- Advised Unilever on the separation and EUR 4.5 billion sale of its global tea business to CVC.
Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP
The team at Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP has a strong record in contentious competition proceedings before European courts, including its landmark victory for Qualcomm in overturning an abuse of dominance decision by the European Commission at first instance. The firm also handles merger clearances, behavioural investigations and enforcement proceedings, and state aid cases, with notable strength in the tech, telecoms, chemicals, media, and life sciences sectors, among others. Trevor Soames, a vastly experienced competition litigator with a successful record across the full range of contentious competition matters, leads the team. Other key team members include Stephen Mavroghenis and Miguel Rato, who have broad expertise in high-tech and chemicals industry mergers and investigations, alongside counsel Marixenia Davilla, who played a key role in the Qualcomm case.
Practice head(s):
Trevor Soames
Other key lawyers:
Miguel Rato; Stephen Mavroghenis; Marixenia Davilla; Athena Kontosakou
Testimonials
‘Deep expertise in EC Article 102 and DG Comp enforcement endeavors’
‘Trevor Soames: experienced, collaborative, well-connected, responsive. Athena Kontosakou: pragmatic, solutions oriented, collaborative, experienced, organized.’
Key clients
Qualcomm Inc.
Slack Inc.
eBay Inc.
StubHub
Air Canada
Anchorage, Algebris and other funds
Fujitsu
CooperVision
Juniper Networks
Dr Lovdahl-Gormsen (class representative)
Work highlights
- Representing Qualcomm in its appeal against the Commission decision in Case AT. 39711 (Qualcomm – predation) finding that Qualcomm abused its dominance by selling certain UMTS chipsets below “cost” to two strategically important customers, with the intention of eliminating Icera.
- Representing Slack and Salesforce (since the merger with Slack in 2021) in the EU Commission’s continuing investigation into Slack’s Article 102 complaint against Microsoft to the EU Commission.
- Representing Anchorage, Algebris and Ronit Capital and other funds in litigating June 2017 decisions adopted by the EU Commission and Single Resolution Board (“SRB”) resolving Banco Popular, writing off its debt and selling it for €1 to Banco Santander, involving four appeals to the EU General Court and one (so far) to the EU Court of Justice.
Sidley Austin LLP
Sidley Austin LLP works across merger control, behavioural investigations, and antitrust litigation, providing a joined-up service to clients ranging from private equity investors to major names in tech and life sciences, and is also noted for its strong integration both with global corporate teams and its international trade offering. Brussels managing partner Ken Daly heads up the team, handling competition and regulatory matters, with other key team members including Maarten Meulenbelt, a specialist in life sciences work, the vastly experienced Jacques Bourgeois and Stephen Spinks, and managing associate Anne Robert, who has played a standout role in pharma sector antitrust litigation.
Practice head(s):
Ken Daly
Other key lawyers:
Maarten Meulenbelt; Stephen Spinks; Jacques Bourgeois; Anne Robert
Testimonials
‘The team members are a pleasure to work with, very responsive, and substantively very knowledgeable and practical.’
‘Working with Ken Daly is a real pleasure. He is practical in his advice and substantively capable in handling large global transactions.’
Key clients
AT&T
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co (AJG)
Cubic Corporation
Magna International
Clearlake Capital Group L.P
Servier Laboratories Ltd
Macquarie Principal Finance
F. Hoffman La Roche
Siris Capital Group LLC
Ivanti Inc
US Chamber of Commerce / Institute for Legal Reform
BeIn Media Group
nThrive Inc
Intermediate Capital Group
Work highlights
- Advised Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. on its acquisition of Chelsea Football Club.
- Advised AT&T on investigations into ad tech and digital markets regulation in five parallel jurisdictions.
- Lead counsel to a pharmaceutical company on one of the EU’s most high profile and controversial competition law procedures in recent years, spanning multiple EU Member States.
Baker Botts L.L.P.
Baker Botts L.L.P. handles a number of complex, high-profile global competition mandates from Brussels, including large-scale merger clearances with European and US elements, cases relating to joint ventures, and antitrust and state aid litigation. The firm is particularly strong in the energy, resources, shipping, and tech spaces, acting for major European and international names in those spaces alongside others, and is able to draw upon the firm’s US and global competition agency expertise in complex multi-jurisdictional mandates. Practice head Catriona Hatton is a highly experienced adviser for global merger clearances and sectoral investigations, as well as regularly representing clients before the Commission and EU courts in high-stakes litigation.
Practice head(s):
Catriona Hatton
Other key lawyers:
Paul Lugard; Brian Byrne
Testimonials
‘Baker Botts is a very solid competition practice all around. They have some very senior partners whose advice is always spot on.’
‘Paul Lugard’s advice is practical and to the point and grounded in his experience as inhouse counsel.’
‘The team is small but staffed with really good lawyers. It’s strength lies in the fact they are smaller than some of the other major firms, but with just as high standards, meaning they can produce quality advice tailored for our business very quickly with no over-staffing of matters.’
‘Our main point of contact is Brian Byrne in Brussels, who is a fantastic lawyer. He is thoughtful, hard-working, and has taken the time to know our business meaning his advice is always on point. He is also very pleasant to work with.’
Key clients
Maersk
Ryanair
Oxford Nanopore Technologies
International Air Transport Association
Liberty Media
Wallenius Wihelmsen
DFDS
Indorama Ventures
World Shipping Council
Worley Parsons
SI Group
Nord Pool
Akamai Technologies
Innophos
Celanese
Caterpillar
Colfax Corporation
American Industrial Partners
Work highlights
- Represented Wallenius Wilhelmsen and EUKOR in a proposed class action brought by Mark McLaren Class Representative and in a damages claim by Jaguar Land Rover in the UK’s specialist competition court, the Competition Appeal Tribunal.
- Advised AP Moller Holding on the merger control aspects of three separate multi-billion transactions.
- Represented DFDS, one of northern Europe’s biggest ferry operators in the parallel investigations by the UK’s CMA and the French competition authority into a capacity sharing agreement between two ferry operators, P&O Ferries Holdings Limited and DFDS A/S, on the Dover-Calais route.
Bird & Bird
The team at Bird & Bird has continued to expand its profile in Brussels, handling complex merger control, cartel, state aid, and abuse of dominance cases, both advising global clients on investigations as well as representing them before the European Commission and EU courts in litigation. The practice is led by José Rivas, an experienced antitrust litigator with a strong record in securing major victories for clients against the Commission in precedent-setting cases, and Hein Hobbelen, who combines multi-jurisdictional cartel expertise with regular involvement in trade disputes, particularly relating to foreign subsidies. Anne Federle specialises in cross-border merger control cases within the automotive sector. Other key areas of focus include pharma, TMT, energy, and chemicals.
Practice head(s):
José Rivas; Hein Hobbelen
Other key lawyers:
Baptist Vleeshouwers; Anne Federle
Testimonials
‘A go to team in Brussels navigating clients through competition and trade cases in a pragmatic, business-focused and efficient way.’
‘Hein is a highly reputed long-standing EU competition and trade lawyer in Brussels – if you contact him, you always know you get excellent, business-friendly and pragmatic advice that adds real value to our business.’
‘As in-house counsel in the United States, I appreciate outside counsel who understand the perspective I am likely to have, and can thus explain topics such as EU competition law in a context that is understandable to me. Bird & Bird is excellent in doing this; in my experience, they have a keen sense of the client’s needs and perspective, and thus do not provide me with too much or not enough detail.’
‘I have worked specifically with Hein Hobbelen and Baptist Vleeshouwers. I think that both Hein and Baptist embody the characteristics that I find most valuable in outside counsel: a willingness to understand the perspectives, tolerances, and limitations of the client. Outside counsel from other firms often try and over-engineer solutions, whereas I find that Hein and Baptist have both the knowledge and confidence to come up with pragmatic solutions.’
Key clients
easyJet
Aegean Airlines
Pontegadea
Robert Bosch GmbH
The European Commission
Burberry
FIFA
Panasonic
Air Products PLC
Ralph Lauren
ASML
John Bean Technologies – JBT
Inditex
John Deere
UAB “Gargždų Geležinkelis”
HIMSA
Ottobock
KYOCERA Document Solutions Deutschland
European Thermal Paper Association (ETPA)
Carpatair
Aptiv
Borg Warner
CLEPA
Rubycon
HIMPP
Work highlights
- Representing a complainant in the European Commission’s investigation regarding Apple’s in-app purchase (IAP) terms for the iOS App Store.
- Assisting Pontegadea, the holding company of the Inditex group, with the merger control and other regulatory filings required for their acquisition of joint control, together with Telefónica, of “Telxius Telecom”, a telecoms submarine cable infrastructure company.
- Representing in a high-profile cartel investigation.
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner advises a global client base on merger control, restrictive practices, abuse of dominance, and foreign direct investment control cases, with standout capabilities in multi-jurisdictional approvals, proceedings before EU and European regulatory bodies, and national security-related antitrust issues. Key sector focuses for the team include tech, financial services, energy, and minerals, while practice head David Anderson is noted for his high-level strategic advice to the European Commission alongside work for private sector clients. Senior associate Paul Culliford also stands out for his multi-jurisdictional merger approval expertise.
Practice head(s):
David Anderson
Other key lawyers:
Paul Culliford
Testimonials
‘Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner impresses with its ability to pull together detailed insights from a range of different jurisdictions – and not just the main ones. And to convey how these insights and an understanding of how different trends and practices are emerging across jurisdictions and the impact. They are essentially very good at putting pieces of the puzzle together and explaining it to very different audiences in very different jurisdictions.’
‘Dave Anderson is very practical and good at providing a highly useful service in a less-than-expected amount of time.’
‘Dave Anderson is one of the most experienced international lawyers for EU and other global matters. Dave is very responsive and thorough, always gets high marks from our clients.’
Key clients
McWin
Farfetch
Riverstone Holdings LLC
Kape Technologies plc
Manzanita Capital
Oscar Gruss
Agilitas Private Equity
Flex
Sumitomo Chemical Europe
Meetup
European Commission
Work highlights
- Advised McWin, a recently established investment fund focussed on the hospitality sector, on the merger control aspects of its acquisition of a majority stake Burger King Deutschland GmbH.
- Providing capacity building technical assistance to the European Commission’s Directorate General for Competition in relation to the European Commission’s programme to help support the advancement of competition law and policy in over 50 African nations.
- Advising Riverstone Holdings LLC in relation to its proposed business combination with Tritium Holdings, an Australia-headquartered manufacturer of electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Crowell & Moring
Crowell & Moring has a strong record in high-stakes investigations, advising clients on abuse of dominance and cartel proceedings, including dawn raid responses, alongside private enforcement and damages cases, and state aid issues, a particular specialism of practice co-head Karel Bourgeois. The team, also led by Thomas De Meese, an experienced name in merger clearances and sectoral investigations, has a strong focus on the life sciences, retail, and tech sectors. Senior counsel Karl Stas and counsel Marieke Van Nieuwenborgh are noted for their standout work on competition issues in network industries and damages recovery, respectively.
Practice head(s):
Thomas De Meese; Karel Bourgeois
Other key lawyers:
Karl Stas; Marieke Van Nieuwenborgh
Testimonials
‘Very professional and efficient work. The work is executed in a flawless way.’
‘Karl Stas as a very reliable and smart lawyer knowing the procedures. He is also up-to-date concerning the latest case law and is thus able to provide sound advice.’
‘Good hands-on team with strong expertise and strategic capabilities.’
Key clients
Sandoz
AT&T / Warner Media
Zoetis
Lotus Bakeries (Biscoff)
Otis elevators
Ahold Delhaize
IPM Group
Renewi
Otary
Telenet
PPTA (Protein Plasma Therapeutics Association)
Work highlights
- Advising a leading e-commerce platform on the competition aspects of its relationships with payment card schemes.
- Representing a leading waste-to-product company in a State aid investigation initiated by the European Commission that challenges national environmental tax decisions.
- Represent a US player active in the fashion industry in the ongoing investigation by the European Commission.
DLA Piper
DLA Piper co-ordinates global merger control proceedings, including Commission-led Phase II and remedies cases, as well as representing international clients in cartel and abuse of dominance proceedings, state aid cases, and competition litigation. The team is particularly strong in the projects and infrastructure space, and also represents a number of government departments and public sector bodies, with Orestis Omran noted for his extensive work on behalf of Greek government clients on projects and state aid work. The team is led by Daniel Colgan, who combines EU competition expertise with experience of working before the CMA and BCA. Daniel Wojtczak previously worked at the Polish competition authority, furthering the team’s pan-European expertise.
Practice head(s):
Daniel Colgan
Other key lawyers:
Orestis Omran; Daniel Wojtczak
Testimonials
‘The team demonstrates a standout capability in all areas of Greek and EU competition law matters, being always ready to provide high-quality advice on different competition law cases, like state aid or merger control cases. The team’s competition practice is always striving to achieve a remarkable outcome on every case it is handling.’
‘Orestis is very knowledgeable in a range of contentious and non-contentious competition law mandates. Orestis’ skills set him apart from the other lawyers in his field, as he is an excellent legal advisor, communicator and team player. Always striving to achieve the best possible result for his cases. His flexibility is also a skill worth mentioning, since his willingness to go above and beyond to accommodate the particularities and needs of any client is especially appreciated.’
‘The Antitrust team is recognised for the seamless ability to work across multiple jurisdictions having the expertise to advise on complicated competition issues. They have a particular strength on state matters involving the Greek Government and other market players in South Eastern Europe.’
Key clients
CIMC
Hellenic Ministry of Finance
Hellenic Ministry of Digital Governance
Hellenic Ministry of Environment and Energy
Hellenic Corporation of Assets and Participations
Hellenic Post
Public Power Corporation
RAE
Energetický a průmyslový holding, a.s. (EPH)
Eunice Energy Group
Single Resolution Board
Mytilineos S.A.
Work highlights
- Advising CIMC on the acquisition of the Maersk reefer container production business, Maersk Container Industry (MCI).
- Advising the Hellenic Ministry of Finance, Hellenic Ministry of Digital Governance, HCAP and ELTA on all State aid matters related to the restructuring of ELTA.
- Advising the Hellenic Ministry of Environment and Energy on matters relating to State aid to facilitate the energy transition and the closure of lignite mines and plants while ensuring security of supply in this process.
Garrigues
Garrigues is active in high-profile EU state aid and competition litigation, with particular strength in the technology sector, acting for major names such as Google in challenges to fines, market investigations, and behavioural proceedings. The team is also noted for its work in the e-commerce space relating to online marketplaces. The practice is now led by Alfonso Lamadrid, managing partner of the Brussels office and a leader in competition fines and state aid cases concerning the technology sector. José Luis Buendía has retired.
Practice head(s):
Alfonso Lamadrid
Testimonials
‘Garrigues Brussels has a formidable competition law team, which I would recommend for any matter of the highest complexity, in any sector and in particular in the digital sector. Experience, highly specialised cutting-edge knowledge and full commitment guarantees the total credibility of this team.’
‘Alfonso Lamadrid de Pablo, leader of the Brussels team, is a lawyer and jurist of outstanding qualities, with a profound knowledge of all matters of competition and EU law, whose experience has already made him a star in the demanding and competitive European market.’
‘Alfonso Lamadrid is an exceptionally sharp legal mind. He stands out amongst the peers of his age on many counts.’
Key clients
Cisco Systems
Rolex
Computer and Communications Industry Association (CCIA)
World Padel Tour
Banco Santander
Cellnex Telecom
Affordable Medicines Europe
Abengoa
Swedish Shipowners’ Association
Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
Work highlights
- Represented Google and Alphabet before the EU General Court in the Google Android appeal against the European Commission’s highest ever fine (€4.3 billion).
- Representing the CCIA in the high stakes Google Shopping appeal before the EU Court of Justice.
- Represented Abengoa in the settlement of the European Commission’s investigation into alleged manipulation of ethanol benchmarks.
King & Spalding LLP
King & Spalding LLP is expanding its profile in the Brussels market, handling European elements of a number of major global mergers in tech and life sciences, often co-ordinating approvals for deals originating in the US, as well as sectoral investigations and antitrust litigation. In line with its tech expertise, the firm regularly advises on competition law as it intersects with innovative issues relating to artificial intelligence, e-commerce, and the Digital Markets Act. The vastly experienced Salomé Cisnal de Ugarte heads up the team, offering deep TMT sector expertise and specialising in transactional work, including standout advice to Tesla and Mailchimp.
Practice head(s):
Salomé Cisnal de Ugarte
Testimonials
‘The team is very active, knowledgeable in all areas of EU competition law, especially digital markets. They are innovative in giving bespoke advice to the clients and make sure they understand the specificities of the industry.’
‘The team demonstrates outstanding knowledge in the areas of competition/antitrust and state aid matters within the context of EU law and has extensive experience when it comes to working on multi-jurisdictional and cross-border matters. I really enjoy working with them because they are very responsive, pragmatic, solution-oriented, and able to provide advice in a professional and efficient manner. They are a very focused team, and in some instances, I cannot think of another team that could have done a better job.’
‘I have cooperated with Dr. Salome Cisnal de Ugarte, a partner in the Brussels office, for many years. She has a brilliant legal mind, especially in the most complex competition/antitrust matters, and her intelligence and strategic vision, are truly rare. She provides pragmatic, distinctive, focused, and clear advice to clients, delivering creative solutions that many leading law firms would not be able to match. Her approach is modern, innovative, and highly operative, with an excellent sense of the quality of service and client relations.’
‘The team is exceptional on many fronts. Very capable and responsive, and a pleasure to work with. They have an excellent knowledge of the EU and the EU procedures, but are also very experienced with other jurisdictions. They have a very strong international merger control offering, also with expertise in cartel and other anti-competition investigations, in collaboration with its US and other European and Asian offices. They have particular expertise and experience on matters relating to Europe and the US, but can cover global transactions and investigations, as they have offices around the world.’
‘Salome Cisnal de Ugarte is our lead partner, and she is an excellent lawyer. She is a very knowledgeable lawyer with strategic vision of the matter. She is on top of all the debates on hot topics in the competition space, like the DMA or the new merger referral policy approach of the EU Commission. We really enjoy working with her.’
Key clients
Atara Biotherapeutics
Tesla
Telekom Srbija
MailChimp
iRobot
World Federation of Advertisers
Truist
Kraton Corporation
Electrolux Professional
ACON Investments
Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI)
Exterran
CCIA
Work highlights
- Advised Tesla, the US electric vehicle and clean energy company, as a third party in the EU and UK in-depth merger control proceedings relating to the proposed acquisition of ARM by Nvidia.
- Advised MailChimp, the leading global customer engagement and marketing platform for small and mid-market business, on the antitrust and competition related aspects of its $12 billion sale to Intuit, the global technology platform.
- Advised Telekom Srbija, the leading telecommunications company in Eastern Europe, on a set of agreements with the UK’s Premier League (EPL) for the broadcasting rights of football matches in the Balkan region (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, Northern Macedonia, Serbia and Slovenia).
McDermott Will & Emery Belgium LLP
McDermott Will & Emery Belgium LLP has continued to expand its European competition expertise, welcoming Stéphane Dionnet, an experienced practitioner across mergers and cartel investigations, from Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP in November 2022. The Brussels team plays a leading role in a number of cross-border merger approvals, as well as international cartel defence proceedings and state aid cases, acting for multinationals and major global clients in fields such as aviation, heavy industrials, and financial services. Hendrik Viaene, who has diverse competition law experience encompassing mergers, antitrust litigation, and a particular specialism in state aid, heads up the team alongside the ‘straightforward‘ Jacques Buhart, who takes the lead on complex global cartel proceedings.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Stéphane Dionnet; Elisabeth Vanden Kerchove; Mélissa Hui
Testimonials
‘The team has the ability to build a bridge between the complexity of financial operations by the client and the complexity of EU competition law; it has the ability to propose a variety of approaches encompassing pros and cons.’
‘Highly knowledgeable experts that can transfer their insights in a comprehensive and pragmatic manner to the client.’
‘Jacques Buhart: Very straight forward, profound experience, quick understanding of business interests, pleasant to work with’
Key clients
Cellnex Telecom, S.A
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI)
Metsä Group (formerly Metsaliitto Group)
Merck KGaA
NGK Insulators
Hanwha Solutions Corporation
Ampersand Capital Partners
Infobip
Soudal
Esko Graphics (part of Danaher Corporation)
Akzo Nobel
PMV
University Hospital Gent
Chep (Brambles Group)
FactSet
Eurofiber
Belgian State
Finance&invest.Brussels
Merck KGaA
Work highlights
- Represented FactSet Research Systems in obtaining European Commission approval for the acquisition of the CUSIP Global Services business from S&P Inc, for US $1.92 billion.
- Advised Hanwha Solutions Corporation (HSC) on the acquisition of RES Méditerranée SAS from Renewable Energy Systems Limited (RES Group).
- Assisted Soudal and Esko Graphics in obtaining a landmark ruling from the European Court of Justice’s Grand Chamber clarifying the status of interveners at the level of the Court of Justice in subsequent renvoi proceedings before the General Court.
Norton Rose Fulbright
Norton Rose Fulbright strengthened its Brussels presence with the April 2022 hire of Miranda Cole, a widely respected specialist in tech and life sciences work, from Covington & Burling LLP, alongside the July 2022 arrival of Alexandra Rogers, who combines mergers and abuse of dominance expertise, from White & Case LLP. The team works in close collaboration with its European and UK offices on large-scale multijurisdictional merger reviews, abuse of dominance proceedings and sectoral investigations, as well as representing clients in litigation before the Commission and EU courts. Sector focuses for the firm include tech and life sciences, energy, financial services, and retail and consumer goods.
Practice head(s):
Miranda Cole
Other key lawyers:
Alexandra Rogers
Testimonials
‘Quick and accurate advice.’
‘The firm has a strong international reach, useful for global or transnational transactions or investigations.’
‘Alexandra Rogers is a true technical expert in EU competition law and a meticulous, rigorous lawyer who deals with issues as thoroughly as possible.’
Key clients
NZIA
Troy Corporation
Sandvik
Allianz Capital Partners
Bloomberg, Tradeweb, MarketAxess
IMI
Qatar Energy
RWE Renewables
OCP
Wyelands Capital/Liberty House
Eli Lilly
carwow
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP is noted for its strong capabilities across state aid, cartel investigations, and follow-on damages litigation, with particular strength in the energy, telecoms, and transportation sectors. The firm also handles cross-border merger approvals and regulatory issues, benefitting from its European and US platform. The practice is led by Jacques Derenne, an experienced advisor to major clients such as AirFrance on state aid issues. Former DG COMP official Robert Klotz is another key member of the team, with broad sector expertise, alongside Oliver Heinisch, who divides his time between London and Brussels and specialises in high-stakes cartel and abuse of dominance proceedings.
Practice head(s):
Jacques Derenne
Other key lawyers:
Robert Klotz; Oliver Heinisch
Testimonials
‘This team is particularly strong in advising Japanese and other non-European multinational companies on dealing with cross-European cartel and abuse of dominance investigations.‘
‘Oliver Heinisch is a very talented EU competition lawyer and combines this with knowledge of (and passion for) Japanese language and culture. As such, he is a go-to choice for major Japanese companies facing antitrust investigations and enforcement in the EU.‘
‘We have a very well established relationship with Sheppard Mullin for several years. They are a very professional team, with a wide range of backgrounds and significant resources allowing for a thorough and reactive follow-up of files.‘
Key clients
Air France-KLM & Société Air France
ÖBB AG
LEAG
Energetický a Průmyslový Holding
EDF group
Viorel Micula
Eurelec Trading
Hitachi Zosen Inova AG
Belgian State
Casio Europe GmbH, Casio Electronics Limited, Casio Computer Co. Ltd
Sharp Electronic (Europe) Limited, Sharp Devices Europe GmbH, Sharp Consumer Electronics Poland sp. z o.o.
SFPIM
Perrigo Inc
Japan Display Inc, JDI Europe GmbH
Avaya Inc
C.F. Martin & Co.
Work highlights
- Advising Air France-KLM and Air France on a series of complex Covid-19-related State aid issues.
- Advising the Germany electricity and coal mining company LEAG and its Czech shareholder company EPH on the pending State aid notification and clearance procedure of German coal exit compensation of €1.75 billion for phasing out coal-fired power plants and opencast coal mines operations by 2038.
- Advising the Austrian railway operator ÖBB in a longstanding EU cartel investigation concerning an alleged restriction of sales of second hand rolling stock to a smaller competitor in a neighbouring country.
Squire Patton Boggs
Squire Patton Boggs is active in Brussels as part of an integrated global competition practice, with key lawyers offering multi-jurisdictional expertise in state aid, merger control, and a number of high-profile cartel investigations in sectors such as aviation and tech. The firm is also noted for its work on competition litigation and FDI filings. Brussels managing partner Brian Hartnett is a key name, regularly representing clients before the European Commission, with German-qualified Oliver Geiss playing a key role in multi-jurisdictional cartel investigations, and UK-qualified Will Sparks advising public sector clients on procurement and subsidy control matters, alongside merger and antitrust work. Gorka Navea joined the firm from Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati in October 2022.
Practice head(s):
Brian Hartnett
Other key lawyers:
Oliver Geiss; Will Sparks; Gorka Navea
Testimonials
‘High legal expertise. Long term experience with the EU. Superb availability.‘
‘Brian Hartnett and Will Sparks- Brian is very experienced with the EU, has an excellent professional network and understands entrepreneurial necessities. Will has a deep legal understanding of the EU.‘
‘What has been most helpful is that they have a global organizational structure that allows them to collaborate immediately with team members in other countries. Sometimes our projects require complex global know-how, but they are able to respond quickly by leveraging their internal and external connections.‘
‘I am especially grateful to Oliver Geiss and would recommend him to anyone. He was always prompt in his responses, and despite the time difference between Japan and US, he provided us with information that allowed our manager to make the right decision. He also suggested best practices and offered multiple ways to complete our mission. In fact, thanks to his contributions, we were able to complete a very challenging project on time.’
Work highlights
- Advised airline LATAM in respect of a well-publicised investigation by the European Commission into airfreight surcharges, including the appeal of the European Commission’s second Airfreight Decision to the General Court in Luxembourg.
- Advised Quanta Storage, Inc., one of the world’s leading providers of optical storage devices (such as DVD players), with revenues in excess of US$12 billion, before the European Court of Justice, on appeal of a 2019 General Court judgment.
- Advised Ashland Global Holdings Inc on the merger control aspects for two transactions.
BonelliErede
Massimo Merola leads the Brussels team at BonelliErede, specialising in state aid and competition litigation, particularly related to state-owned enterprises and public procurement. The firm acts before EU courts on behalf of a wide range of European and global businesses such as banks and financial services providers, as well as aviation companies and others.
Practice head(s):
Massimo Merola
Testimonials
‘Massimo Merola is the best the market can offer in the state aid sector. He is very available, clear and his legal advice and solutions are always very ingenious.’
‘The Brussels office of BonelliErede has unparalleled expertise in competition law and in particular State Aid matters. The presence of many super-skilled Italian speaker lawyers is certainly a plus for Italian companies which have to deal with national and EU procedures.’
‘Massimo Merola is absolutely one of the most reputable professionals in the State Aid arena. He stands out for his competences, his impressive knowledge of national and EU legislation and procedure, his fantastic reliability. If you are assisted by him, you feel confident that everything will be all right!’
‘Massimo Merola is the genius and engine running Bonelli Erede Brussels Law Firm. It is always a pleasure to discuss legal matters and effective solutions with Massimo.’
‘The EU practice is truly outstanding, both in terms of experience and knowledge. The key partners are with the firm and in Brussels since the turn of the century (and even earlier) and have a unique experience in dealing with the EU Commission.’
‘Massimo Merola is an authority, particularly in the state aid sector, and his opinions are highly respected by the parties and the Commission alike. Very frequently chosen by Italian governmental agencies to opine on state aid issues. He also has a deep understanding of the economic and industrial aspects of the cases.’
Key clients
Save
PagoPA
Alperia
Neos
Pharma Mar SA
AEFI
Single Resolution Board (SRB)
Crédit Agricole Italia S.p.A.
Fastweb S.p.A.
Macquarie
Work highlights
- Assisted Neos before the General Court in support of the European Commission and in opposition to the action brought by Ryanair for the annulment of the decision approving the State aid compensations for the damages incurred due to the pandemic in the aviation sector.
- Assisted Crédit Agricole in the merger control filing to the European Commission concerning reorganisation of the financial joint ventures of the Stellantis Group.
- Assisted Alperia before the General Court in support of the European Commission and in opposition to the action brought by Tirreno Power and Set for the annulment of the decision approving the Italian capacity mechanism.
Bredin Prat
Pierre Honoré leads the team at Bredin Prat, advising on complex cross-border merger control matters, as well as representing clients in antitrust litigation, including merger litigation and cartel damages proceedings. The team acts for a number of major global names in industries including tech, food, and aviation, and regularly works in collaboration with its international offices.
Practice head(s):
Pierre Honoré
Key clients
Airbus
Air Liquide
Covéa
Delfingen
D’Ieteren
Lactalis
Reckitt Benckiser
Schneider Electric
Suez
Work highlights
- Advising D’Ieteren Group on its EU Phase I conditional merger control clearance of its EUR 1.7 billion proposed acquisition of Parts Holding Europe (PHE), a Western European leader in spare parts distribution and services for vehicles and trucks, from Bain Capital Private Equity.
- Advising global dairy leader Lactalis on its unconditional European merger control approval for its c. EUR 700m acquisition of cheese brand Leerdammer and related rights from Bel.
- Advising French insurer Covéa on the international merger control aspects of its USD 9 billion acquisition of PartnerRe, a reassurance provider, from Exor.
Dentons
Dentons combines global merger control advice with standout involvement in antitrust litigation and cartel defence cases before the European Commission and EU courts, including consumer protection cases in the aviation sector. Other sector focuses include life sciences, luxury and consumer goods, and renewable energy. The team, led by US-qualified James Venit, includes a number of dual-qualified practitioners with European and US competition expertise, and a diverse range of industry know-how. Belgium managing partner Edward Borovikov is noted for his state aid work.
Practice head(s):
James Venit
Other key lawyers:
Yves Botteman; Edward Borovikov; Jean-Nicolas Maillard
Testimonials
‘Very flexible, listening to the practical needs and making sure to provide tailored advice.’
‘Yves Botteman is able to listen to what is needed and to adapt accordingly to provide tailored advice. I go to Yves to discuss complex questions.’
‘Dentons has a strong practice group for antitrust, contractual and mergers and acquisition matters. They are also proactive in providing anticompetitive behavior education to my staff.’
‘Yves Botteman understands my business and is great at understanding the issues facing my business and being proactive to help keep us out of trouble.’
Key clients
SRAM
UNIFE
The European Association for Forwarding Transport Logistics and Customs Services (CLECAT)
Merck KGaA
Movilizer GMBH, subsidiary of Honeywell
Work highlights
- Advised a US company on the anti-dumping investigation of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) on import of single mode optical fiber from the USA and Japan.
- Advising SRAM on a variety of competition law issues.
- Advised the European Association for Forwarding Transport Logistics and Customs Services on the latest competition law issues they face.
Fieldfisher
Fieldfisher combines EU and national competition law expertise, representing clients before European and domestic courts and competition authorities in cases relating to merger control, state aid, cartel activity, and broad antitrust litigation cases, with particular focus on the energy sector and issues relating to international trade. The practice, which counts among its clients multinationals and major domestic businesses, as well as public sector organisations, is headed by Tom Pick.
Practice head(s):
Tom Pick
Testimonials
‘Fieldfisher has a highly professional competition team with team members from a variety of backgrounds and therefore expertise not only in European and Belgian law, but also in other EU laws. The team is very responsive and business oriented.’
‘Tom Pick is extremely available and quick to provide well-adapted solutions to any competition law issue. His flexibility and reactivity are very much appreciated.’
Key clients
Vestel Elektronik
Eurelec Trading
German Federal Ministry of Economics
The Synergist
EPACA
Tech-Fab Europe
Holcim Belgium
Daikin Europe
Flos S.p.A.
Work highlights
- Advising the German Ministry of the Economy (BMWi) on all related competition law matters on a project called GAIA-X.
Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I
Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I advises an international client base, including major names in telecoms, financial services, and private equity, on a broad range of European competition issues, such as merger approvals, state aid applications, and cartel investigations, as well as offering a standout capability in representing third parties bringing complaints in abuse of dominance proceedings. An extensive Brussels-based team leverages the firm’s global reach in handling cross-border mandates, with key names including Laurent Godfroid, Stéphane Hautbourg, Benoît Le Bret, Ségolène Pelsy, Romain Rard, who was promoted to partner in July 2022, Anna Claudia Coelho Dias, and Olivier Prost.
Practice head(s):
Laurent Godfroid; Stéphane Hautbourg; Benoît Le Bret; Ségolène Pelsy; Romain Rard; Olivier Prost; Anna Dias
Testimonials
‘Stéphane Hautbourg’s great knowledge and experience of the inner workings of the European Commission is a real strength for Gide Brussels’ competition law team. His sharp understanding of the Commission’s expectations and possible anticipation of its requests for information is a real added-value to his advice. Stéphane’s team includes younger practitioners who contribute to the high quality of the team’s advice.’
‘The Competition law team of Gide Brussels stands out thanks to its partner Stéphane Hautbourg. His advices are always pragmatic and his calm attitude is an essential factor contributing to handling matters, even these extremely complex from a legal standpoint and highly technical from a business perspective, with confidence and serenity.’
‘Independent, versatile and great legal advice.’
‘Great listening and understanding, able to deliver.’
‘They were extremely competent, knowledgeable, precise and fast, they asked us to provide the necessary documentation and then used it in the best possible way. They were also extremely helpful in advising on the best way of presenting the data and the arguments, and to push forward the approval procedure to reduce waiting time.’
‘I would like to mention particularly the lawyer that was responsible for the two projects and was my direct contact at Gide, Ms Ségolène Pelsy, who has been truly remarkable in terms of reliability, clarity, quality of advice and in delivering results on time. I have been very impressed by her ability to keep the pace and produce excellent quality documents, and to manage from afar a pretty bureaucratic process.’
‘Close-knit team, strong interaction on a project, hence with an added value of internal synergy. High technical reactivity as soon as a project is discussed before a contract. Confidence and work starts immediately Deep knowledge of the European mechanisms (at least in the Pharma sector) – close follow-up of each step – harmonious interactions.’
‘Fluid interactions with the project manager or similar manager – leadership thereof, without over-management or authoritarian management. Possibility to exchange also with the members of the team in charge. Very friendly. Ready to come along if necessary to reach stakeholders. High level interaction with the authorities.’
Key clients
SkyExpress
Flying whales
Intel
CMA CGM
Hyvia
AhTop
OVHcloud, Aruba and The Danish cloud community
Air Liquide
BNP Paribas
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)
TotalEnergies
KKR FIBERCOP / TIM
Engie
Eurostar-Thalys
Orlen-Lotos
Google Twenga
Orange S.A
EDF and French State (APE)
Roquette Frères
Vitol Vivo
Renault
Rail Logistic Europe
Work highlights
- Representing Twenga since the opening of the European Commission investigation into Google for abusing its dominant position in internet search.
- Assisting OVHcloud, Aruba, and the Danish Cloud Community in filing a complaint against Microsoft, for abuse of a dominant position on the market for cloud services and productivity software.
- Assisting Orange with the merger control notification to the European Commission of the proposed merger of its Spanish subsidiary, Orange Spain, with MásMóvil in a deal that is valued at $19 billion.
Gleiss Lutz
Gleiss Lutz acts for a number of major international companies, including leading German names such as Deutsche Telekom and Mercedes-Benz, representing clients in merger control proceedings, cartel fines and damages litigation, and advising on state aid considerations. The Brussels team has expertise in a range of sectors, including financial services, automotives, healthcare, and media, and includes key names Ulrich Soltész and Christian Von Köckritz.
Other key lawyers:
Ulrich Soltész; Christian von Köckritz; Harald Weiss
Testimonials
‘There is flexibility and short-term availability, if necessary. Advice is provided in very clear and understandable terms (no unnecessary lawyer speech). The lawyers have a very professional attitude and there is always a very friendly atmosphere. Dr. Ulrich Soltész and Harald Weiss have a good instinct for future trends.’
Key clients
Mercedes-Benz Group
Deutsche Telekom
Canon
Wieland Werke AG
Free State of Bavaria
Deutsche Bahn
Globalfoundries
Südzucker AG
Work highlights
- Represented Deutsche Telekom against the EU Commission before the General Court and obtained a damages award of EUR 1.75 million for the Commission’s failure to pay interest on the overpaid amount of an antitrust fine imposed by the Commission that was subsequently reduced by the General Court.
- Represented Canon in the General Court in a landmark case against a Commission decision imposing a fine for alleged “gun jumping”.
- Represented Free State of Bavaria in Luxembourg, averting repayment of millions in alleged state aid.
Hengeler Mueller
Hengeler Mueller advises on cross-border merger control proceedings, working in close collaboration with the firm's German offices, as well as offering EU competition law advice on dominance proceedings before the German FCO, and handling cartel fine and damages cases. The team is also active in state aid matters. The practice is headed by Hans-Jörg Niemeyer, Markus Röhrig and Christoph Wilken, who was promoted to the partnership in January 2022.
Practice head(s):
Hans-Jörg Niemeyer; Markus Röhrig; Christoph Wilken
K&L Gates GP
K&L Gates GP operates as part of an integrated global group, with Europe-wide and US expertise, handling merger control proceedings, vertical enforcement, and cartel investigations, with particular strength in acting for third-party challengers to contested mergers and digital markets cases. In the cartel space, the firm is active in the fashion sector, with other industry focuses of note including aviation and transport, which are strengths of practice co-head Philip Torbøl. Other leaders of the team include Mélanie Bruneau, who is active in distribution and retail issues, merger investigations and remedies specialist Francesco Carloni, who also spends time in Milan, and Nikolaos Peristerakis, who is also focused on merger work.
Practice head(s):
Mélanie Bruneau; Francesco Carloni; Nikolaos Peristerakis; Philip Torbøl
Testimonials
‘A worlwide network of competion lawyers with deep knowledge in fashion law.’
‘Francesco Carloni is a high standing professional with a deep knowledge of the fashion sector.’
‘The K&L Gates team is always available and collaborative and focus on the real needs of the clients. The Partners are very well qualified lawyers, proactive and always focused on finding legal solution adapted to the clients’ needs.’
‘Mr. Francesco Carloni is an excellent lawyer, well skilled, diligent, proactive and market oriented. He is an excellent advisor focused on the clients’ needs.’
‘Francesco Carloni manages an excellent team of competition lawyers. He is practical, efficient, attentive and pro-active. I have always greatly enjoyed working with him and his team – they have always proven to be reliable and effective.’
Key clients
II-VI Incorporated
Westinghouse
Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana
Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode
Ferring
Alitalia
Sealed Air Corporation
Mitsui Chemicals
World Fuel Services
Multi Service Tolls
Securitas
Prada
Armani
Salvatore Ferragamo
OTB and its brands (Diesel, Maison Margiela, Marni, Staff International, Jil Sander)
Canali
Zegna
Audemars Piguet
Hexagon
Foxconn
Kaman
International Federation of Freight Forwarders (FIATA)
Work highlights
- Represented and secured unconditional clearance for Securitas AB in its USD 3.2 bn acquisition of Stanley Security from Stanley Black & Decker Inc before the European Commission, US FTC, Canada Competition Bureau and Colombia Competition Authority.
- Representing an iconic fashion brand before the European Commission in connection its cartel investigation in the fashion sector. The Commission conducted unannounced inspections at the premises of companies active in several Member States in May 2022.
- Represented the National Chamber for the Italian Fashion (Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana) and the French Trade Association for the fashion industry (Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode) – which members account for more than EUR 300 bn sales in Europe – before the European Commission in connection with the review and adoption of the Vertical Block Exemption Regulation and Vertical Guidelines.
Mayer Brown
Mayer Brown‘s ‘professional, adaptable‘ team focuses on international merger clearances, cartel proceedings, and state aid work, with the practice offering notable expertise in the transport and logistics space, alongside the food and chemicals sectors. The team includes senior members with strong expertise in high-stakes antitrust litigation before EU courts, with practice co-head Aymeric de Moncuit arriving from the General Court in May 2022 having previously acted as a key referendaire in several major competition cases. Fellow co-head Julian Ellison has been active in major merger control cases, and has standout capabilities in private enforcement and follow-on damages proceedings.
Practice head(s):
Julian Ellison; Aymeric de Moncuit
Testimonials
‘Professional, adaptable and empathetic.’
‘It is a very good team, sharp as a razor and a real pleasure to work with. Especially strong in merger control and EC investigations.’
‘Julian Ellison is a treat to work with, always available, friendly and on the ball with respect to every aspect of the case.’
Key clients
Abertis
Cellnex
CEMBUREAU
INEOS
LG Electronics Inc.
Macedonian Thrace Brewery
Organizatia Patronala A Societatilor Feroviare
Permira
P&O Ferries
Work highlights
- Representing Macedonian Thrace Brewery (MTB) in an ongoing multimillion-euro antitrust lawsuit against Heineken and its Greek subsidiary Athenian Brewery.
- Representing Organizatia Patronala A Societatilor Feroviare in a State aid complaint filed in 2017 against the Romanian state in relation to aid granted to CFR Marfa, Romania’s rail freight operator.
- Advising EcoBeautyScore Consortium, a global group of companies and trade associations in the cosmetic industry that have come together to develop an industry-wide environmental impact assessment system for cosmetics products, and communicate it to consumers.
Morrison Foerster
Morrison Foerster advises a wide range of global clients, with particular strength in the tech and innovation space, on merger control proceedings, regulatory investigations, and compliance issues, as well as high-profile follow-on damages litigation and cross-border cartel cases. The team is integrated with its global platform, allowing it to play a key role in Belgian and European aspects of complex multijurisdictional mandates. The team is led by Brussels managing partner Tom McQuail, who has international experience across mergers, damages litigation, cartels, and abuse of dominance matters in diverse industries including chemicals, telecoms, and pharma.
Practice head(s):
Tom McQuail
Key clients
SoftBank Group Corp.
Cambridge Quantum (now part of Honeywell Group)
Axalta Coating Systems
Reed Smith
Reed Smith works with a global client base on cross-border merger control proceedings, abuse of dominance cases, and sectoral investigations, combining broad European competition law expertise with standout trade and regulatory capabilities. The team works across key sectors, including regulated industries, and is also able to access the firm’s global platform to co-ordinate multi-jurisdictional matters. Isabella Rahman, noted for her work on antitrust risk compliance mandates, leads the team, which also includes Christian Filippitsch and counsel Max Seuster as key contributors.
Practice head(s):
Isabelle Rahman
Other key lawyers:
Christian Filippitsch; Max Seuster
Testimonials
‘Efficiency and simplicity of response – sufficient legal guidance to aid future navigation of issues whilst providing succinct and commercially relevant advice. Billing proactively managed and clear. Strength of expertise across levels of experience and jurisdictions.’
‘Adaptable and client facing. Solution focused – keeping the discussion and guidance relevant and clear on levels of risk. Level of services/managing of account/continuity of team – delivering a professional service all around.’
‘The team is very goal-oriented and pragmatic. Given information is reliable and resilient. The team offers reasonable alternatives and options for action.’
Strelia
Strelia advises a number of clients, including several leading names in the aviation sector, on merger control proceedings and compliance issues, as well as representing in high-stakes litigation relating to cartel allegations, private enforcement, and vertical and horizontal agreements. In a standout case, the firm represented Air Belgium in state aid proceedings before the European Commission, securing €4.8m in damage compensation following the Covid-19 pandemic. Pierre Goffinet, a highly experienced competition practitioner with a successful record in arguing cases before European courts, heads up the team, which also features Laure Bersou, a counsel who regularly handles competition cases in regulated sectors.
Practice head(s):
Pierre Goffinet
Testimonials
‘A firm that offers a whole range of services needed by companies.’
‘Pierre Goffinet and his staff all have the knowledge and availability to provide exceptional service to their clients.’
Key clients
Orange Belgium
Air Belgium
Ethias
Total Energies
Lineas
Grand hôpital universitaire de Bruxelles (GHUB)
CarASAP (D’Ieteren)
City of Brussels
Work highlights
- Represented Air Belgium in its State aid proceedings in front of the European Commission. The Commission authorised damage compensation due to the COVID-19 crisis for Air Belgium amounting to EUR 4.8 million.
- Advised Sabena Aerospace regarding its acquisition of Lufthansa Technik.
ALTIUS
ALTIUS advises on merger control, distribution arrangements, abuse of dominance, and state aid cases for clients in its key focus areas of consumer goods and retail, life sciences, media, and sports, with regular appearances before the European Commission and EU courts for both domestic and international businesses. Another notable area of expertise for the team, led by Carmen Verdonck
, is competition cases intersecting with intellectual property, such as patent infringements and technology transfer arrangements.
Practice head(s):
Carmen Verdonck
Testimonials
‘Solid team with good knowledge of our industry sector and great price/quality ratio.’
‘Carmen Verdonck is a partner with great experience of competition law matters in our sector. Good availability to discuss alongside our business.’
Key clients
Campine
Siemens
Citymesh
VZW K. Racing Club Genk
Indufin Capital Partners
Cordes & Graefe KG
Felbermayr Holding GmbH
Beiersdorf
Euroseeds
PACE
BOLTON
Work highlights
- Assisted Campine in its appeal against the Commission decision of 8 February 2017 in the Car Battery Recycling case and successfully managed to have the 8.2 Mio EUR fine imposed on Campine to be reduced to 4.2 Mio EUR.
- Assisted Cordes & Graefe KG in its acquisition and the merger control clearance of the full control of the FACQ Group.
- Assisted Felbermayr Holding GmbH and its affiliate company, Haeger & Schmidt Logistics GmbH, with the merger control clearance procedure before the European Commission concerning the creation of a full-function joint venture between the Felbermayr group and the PSA group.
contrast
contrast works with a global client case, including high-profile companies in the automotives, pharma, and public sectors, on European-level merger control proceedings, investigations, and cartel proceedings, including regular appearances before DGComp and European courts. The team is led by Filip Tuytschaever, ‘very good in operational matters‘, and ‘excellent advisor‘ Herlinde Burez.
Practice head(s):
Filip Tuytschaever; Herlinde Burez
Testimonials
‘Contrast so far has provided competition law advice in a very cost-efficient manner ranging from strategic advice up to very operative tasks very closely related to the business. Contrast is offering different collaboration models and has from time to time seconded lawyers to our organization which has been a value add for us and for Contrast.’
‘They have a unique combination of profound expertise and business acumen.’
‘Very accessible. Very interested and knowledgeable about our business.’
Key clients
European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA)
Bionext Lab
Flemish Government (Department of Culture, Youth and Media)
Bernard Tapie
Work highlights
- Representing ACEA in the investigation by DG COMP into alleged anti-competitive practices in respect of the collection, treatment, and valorization of end-of-life vehicles (ELVs).
- Acted as joint legal counsel for AB Volvo and Daimler Truck AG for the notification at EU level of a joint venture regarding the development, production and sales and after-sales of fuel cell systems for heavy-duty trucks which AB Volvo and Daimler Truck AG intend to create. The creation of the JV has been approved and is operational as Cellcentric.