Hall Of Fame

Firms To Watch: EU and competition

The boutique Tomov & Tomov are well versed in EU law and advises on competition matters and state aid cases, where they are currently representing the state before the European Commission concerning a potential unlawful state aid and the consequences of this. Senior partner Lazar Tomov leads the practice.
Arsov Natchev Ganeva advises on merger control cases, cartels, unfair trade practises and antitrust issues in the field of competition law, next to which they support public and private clients on the EU legal framework. Svetlana Ganeva and Dessislava Lukarova jointly lead the team.

EU and competition in Bulgaria

Boyanov & Co.

Boyanov & Co. handles the full spectrum of competition law matters, ranging across merger clearance processes, cartels and unfair competition where the team frequently appears before the competition authority and the courts. It also assists clients with dawn raids and compliance advice. The firm’s impressive work portfolio recently included obtaining merger clearance for the acquisition BNP Paribas Personal Finance on the behalf of Eurobank, a high-profile matter in the consumer credit and personal finance area. The highly rated Peter Petrov leads the practice, which is further enhanced by litigator Kina Chuturkova and Dr. Nikolay Kolev  who combines corporate and competition expertise. Junior team member Adriana Bakalova is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Peter Petrov


Other key lawyers:

Kina Chuturkova; Dr. Nikolay Kolev; Adriana Bakalova


Testimonials

‘Boyanov team has great and deep expertise in corporate, commercial and antitrust matters. The lawyers are very business oriented, have profound business knowledge and provide practical advice.’

‘Peter Petrov- antitrust expert combining sound business thinking, economic assessment and deep legal expertise.’

Key clients

Procter & Gamble


AbbVie


Novartis


Merck


Philip Morris


Bayer


Unilever


Mondelez


Siemens


Medtronic


Adidas


LEGO


Pfizer


KBC


Duvetica


Jacobs Douwe Egberts


Inditex/Zara


Estée Lauder


Fater


Sameday


Flip


Publicis


Boehringer


ICAP CRIF


Devin (Spadel)


Lidl


Limagrain


Boston Scientific


Fluidra


Work highlights


  • Advised and represented Eurobank, in successfully obtaining merger clearance for the acquisition of its rival BNP Paribas Personal Finance.
  • Acts as local counsel to a large number of major local and international groups on antitrust and competition matters. Its client list in this field includes global names like Adidas, Novartis, Philip Morris, Merck, Coca Cola, Bayer, Jacobs Douwe Egberts, Procter & Gamble, Medtronic, Unilever, Pfizer, Mondelez, KBC and others.
  • Acts as KBC’s Bulgaria’s outside counsel in relation to all competition law compliance and antitrust matters.

CMS

CMS covers the full array of competition matters, with Bulgarian and European antitrust, multijurisdictional merger control and unfair competition regulation standing out as practice strengths. The firm excels across a variety of industries, among them energy and renewables, banking and finance, technology and cosmetics. Nevena Radlova leads the practice and regularly assists international clients across central and eastern Europe on compliance with competition laws. Anna Tanova is another key member of the competition practice and is especially active in the IT and Media sectors.

Practice head(s):

Nevena Radlova


Other key lawyers:

Anna Tanova


Testimonials

‘Extremely knowledgeable and hardworking team, and always available to provide you with any information necessary.’

‘Nevena Radlova is an outstanding person; she knows our business well and can easily understand the issues we face and come up with a practical solution. She is extremely knowledgeable, reliable and responsive. Great pleasure to work with!’

Key clients

Smartcom Bulgaria


EKO Bulgaria


Syngenta Bulgaria


Avon Bulgaria


Work highlights


  • Represented Smartcom Bulgaria AD with regard to the preparation and filing of an appeal with the Commission for Protection of Competition (CPC) against a decision for opening a public tender in the field of IT and Telecommunications for an estimated value of BGN 18 million including representation of the client before the CPC and the Supreme court.
  • Updated EKO Bulgaria’s Competition Compliance Program and training on competition law; obtaining merger clearance from the national competition authority in relation to assuming of control by EKO on a lasting basis over various petrol stations; advice on advertising campaigns.
  • Advised Syngenta on a competition and dawn raid training, competition compliance matters in relation to the company’s daily business.

Dimitrov, Petrov & Co

Major TMT and life sciences companies regularly seek the expertise of Dimitrov, Petrov & Co‘s competition practice group for their ‘industry knowledge and specialisation’ across antitrust and competition law. The team handles a broad range of matters, from abuse of dominance, collusive agreements, state aid issues, unfair competition cases to broader advice on the introduction of products on the Bulgarian market. The team is led by Zoya Todorova, who contributes extensive experience representing clients before the Commission for Protection of Competition and various courts. Donka Stoyanova‘s broad experience takes in anti-trust, state aid and trademark infringements – clients note that her ‘expertise in competition, including competition litigation, is hard to match’.

Practice head(s):

Zoya Todorova


Other key lawyers:

Donka Stoyanova; Radina Tomanova; Yana Georgieva; Hristo Nihrizov


Testimonials

‘They have lawyers of various expertise which allows them to cover complicated matters and meet tight deadlines. They are very deep into the practice of the local competition regulation and the courts and know the industry in detail. I would recommend them to anyone in need of competition advice.’

‘I have worked most with Donka Stoyanova. She is a brilliant lawyer who thinks at least three steps ahead.’

‘What is perhaps the greatest advantage of Dimitrov, Petrov & Co is the precise allocation of assignments to the best-qualified lawyers in the field. The potential clients will feel at ease and in good hands and may rely on the deep expertise of the lawyers.’

‘I do appreciate my collaboration with Donka Stoyanova who led us straight to the most important and relevant points in our defense. Her energy, skill, and thoughtfulness made it easy to navigate the complex legal framework while compiling a mountain of pieces of evidence. Her focus and dedication to the case brought the best possible results.’

‘For me one of their biggest strengths is their industry knowledge and specialization. DPC team are not only great lawyers but also have an impressive business acumen. The trust that we have built is key for our work.’

‘Practice heads are Zoya Todorova & Donka Stoyanova, strongly supported by Radina Tomanova and Yana Georgieva. They all put a lot of energy in work and never spare efforts or time. Zoya is a true leader – confident, calm and always available when you need her. Radina is meticulous in every detail and brings confidence in complex situations. Yana Georgieva is also great professional with strong business sense and IP expertise.’

‘DPC is one of the pioneers in telecom law in Bulgaria and has been actively involved battles among telecoms in the competition field for more than 20 years. That’s why their expertise in telecom competition is invaluable.’

‘Hristo Nihrizov and Donka Stoyanova are the main lawyers that advise us on competition matters. Hristo is THE telecom lawyer in the country, but he is also quite knowledgeable in the area of competition, and he knows the market like the back of his hand. Donka’s expertise in competition, including competition litigation, is hard to match.’

Key clients

Oqema AG


Yettel Bulgaria


PMA – Pharma Marketing Advisors


Pfizer Luxemburg SARL, Bulgaria Branch


Google Inc


Johnson & Johnson / Janssen Group


Most 81


Pepkor Europe GmbH (Pepco chain)


Eli Lilly/SUISSE/SA


Work highlights


  • Assisted OQEMA AG in obtaining a merger clearance in a Phase I proceeding before the local competition authority.
  • Assisting Yettel Bulgaria in several parallel proceedings currently pending before the local competition authority concerning the acquisition of one of the biggest telecom operators in Bulgaria.
  • Advised Google on the competition risks related to the launch of new services.

Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov

Djingov, Gouginski, Kyutchukov & Velichkov is reputed for its advice on on merger control, cartels and abuse of dominance investigations, competition compliance and dawn raids. Moreover, the practice has extensive knowledge in unfair competition cases where it frequently appears before the Bulgarian competition authority and courts. Pre-eminent competition practitioner Nikolai Gouginski and Violetta Kunze jointly lead the team. Dessislava Iordanova is a key member of the team, advising across antitrust, mergers, unfair trade and compliance matters.

Practice head(s):

Nikolai Gouginski; Violetta Kunze


Other key lawyers:

Dessislava Iordanova


Testimonials

‘We have instructed Djingov Gouginski regarding merger control issues in Bulgaria (some of them quite complicated) and for compliance trainings. They are very responsive and deliver high quality work – paired with the perfect amount of pragmatism for practical and truly useful advice.’

‘Nikolai Gouginski is our main contact and impresses us with his professionalism, his legal proficiencies and his perfect service orientation. He is extremely nice to work with and we would always recommend him to anyone requiring competition law advice in Bulgaria.’

‘I had a very positive experience with DGKV in terms of qualitative and timely response. People in the company understand our challenges and give us working solutions and advice on how to manage processes in the most efficient and compliant way.’

‘Dessislava Iordanova is very prompt with answers. She gives reasonable feedback that makes our cases compliant. When in doubt, she refers to examples from the Pharma industry, which helps us a lot.’

Key clients

OMV Bulgaria EOOD


Froneri Bulgaria


Nikon Europe B.V.


Visa Europe B.V.


Mayoral Moda Infantil S.A. and Mayoral Bulgaria EOOD


Miele Center Max Group EOOD


British American Tobacco Trading EOOD


Beiersdorf Bulgaria


Quadrant Beverages AD


Bunge


Work highlights


  • Representing OMV as complainant and interested party in antitrust investigation launched on the basis of complaint by OMV against Lukoil Bulgaria EOOD for alleged abuse of dominant position (margin squeeze and price discrimination) in the wholesale trade of fuels.
  • Advising Visa Europe on antitrust and unfair competition rules applicable to local operations and relations with merchant banks and providing ongoing assistance for compliance screening of advertising and promotional activities.
  • Representing and advising Froneri Bulgaria in an investigation launched by the CPC in March 2023 against Froneri for alleged violations on the markets for supply of ice-cream.

Kambourov & Partners

Kambourov & Partners is adept in the full range of competition matters and regularly deals with major domestic and international media, telecommunications and retail businesses. Alongside day-to-day competition and compliance advice, the firm supports its clients in cases of market dominance, cartels, unfair competition, and merger control relating to domestic and cross-border mergers and acquisitions. ‘Seasoned professionalStefan Tzakov heads the team and deputy head Plamen Yotov is well versed in all competition and EU law and has huge experience in Bulgaria’s ‘abuse of stronger bargaining posiiton’ laws.

Practice head(s):

Stefan Tzakov


Other key lawyers:

Plamen Yotov


Testimonials

‘The firm has an exceptional team of competition lawyers who combine deep legal expertise with a sharp strategic mindset. They deliver outstanding results for clients in complex antitrust matters. Their ability to navigate regulatory landscapes and devise innovative solutions sets them apart, ensuring we remain compliant and competitive in the market. They are a formidable force in the field of competition law!’

‘We are very pleased to work with a team with such a deep expertise in various legal fields, including competition law, customer protection law, corporate law, personal data protection law, labor law, and real estate law.’

‘With decades of experience in competition law, Stefan Tzakov is a seasoned professional renowned for his in-depth knowledge of the law. His track record of handling high-stakes antitrust cases has solidified him as a leading authority in the field.’

‘We rely on Plamen Yotov not only for his outstanding legal acumen but also for his great ability to always provide practical and effective solutions. Plamen has quickly risen to prominence in the competition field in Bulgaria, earning the trust of clients through his exceptional legal skills and forward-thinking.’

‘The team stands out with deep analytical skills, thorough expertise, quick responses to the discussed legal matters and finding relevant solutions to the current cases.’

‘The team provides prompt and high-quality services where the motivation of the lawyers and their level of expertise are constantly expressed. Their service is excellent and answers to the legal questions were provided by Kambourov & Partners law office in due time. Responses were accurate and always provided in close cooperation with in-house lawyers of the company.

‘We can mention Plamen Yotov because his exceptional expertise in EU legislation and competition matters. He always demonstrates a problem-solving attitude and is extremely devoted to the results in client’s interests due to his excellent knowledge of the industry.’

They possess a great legal expertise. They managed to help us with various legal matters and to resolve different issues with our vendors as well as with the official authorities.’

Key clients

Vivacom


Robert Bosch GmbH, Germany


Wizz Air


BYFAR


European Federation of Energy Traders


Kaufland Bulgaria


Kamenitza AD/Starbev Netherlands B.V./Molson Coors


Prestige-96


Lidl Bulgaria


Zora


Maxima Bulgaria


Work highlights


  • Obtained unconditional Phase II merger clearances for the acquisitions by Vivacom of Telnet and Networx Bulgaria.
  • Represents Lidl as a respondent in a pending investigation by the Bulgarian competition authority regarding a suspected cartel, including on-site representation during a dawn raid and throughout the subsequent judicial appeal of the dawn raid warrant.
  • Represents Kaufland in the judicial proceedings on appeal of a EUR 288,000 fine imposed on Kaufland by the Bulgarian competition authority for alleged misleading advertising.

Andrey Delchev and Partners - Eurolex Bulgaria

Andrey Delchev and Partners - Eurolex Bulgaria advises on matters of antitrust, prohibited agreements, abuse of dominant market position, price fixing as well as competition matters related to public tenders and procurement. The team is well known for its work with governmental bodies and clients across the energy and fuels sectors. The team is led by Severina Liubenova, who works closely with media companies on advertising related competition issues, while Boriana Chotekova bolsters the team with her extensive experience in antitrust law. Founding partner Andrey Delchev is also active in the competition practice.

Practice head(s):

Severina Liubenova; Boriana Chotekova


Other key lawyers:

Andrey Delchev


Testimonials

‘Andrey Delchev and Partners – Eurolex Bulgaria delivers timely, exhaustive and competent legal advice discussed from different perspectives and observing the highest standards in this area. The Law firm reacts very quickly to legal changes. Persistence when defending us in court is very impressive.’

‘Andrey Delchev is a very experienced professional in the area of energy and competition projects. Boriana Chotekova has significant experience in procedural representation before the Commission on Protection of Competition of the Republic of Bulgaria.’

Key clients

Lukoil


Electrohold Bulgaria EAD/ CEZ Group


National Trust EcoFund


Fresh Media Group/ Communicorp


Gedeon Richter


The Bulgarian Petroleum and Gas Association


The Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works


The Bulgarian Energy and Water Regulatory Commission


‘Treger’ Limited


Work highlights


  • Advises the Lukoil Group in Bulgaria in two set of high-profile national investigations regarding alleged abuses of dominant position on the market.
  • Represents the national energy regulator – the Energy and Water Regulatory Commission – in a dispute against the National Electric Company EAD.
  • Advises Fresh Media Group on competition and regulatory issues related to broadcasting of radio programs in Bulgaria.

Dinova Rusev & Partners

Dinova Rusev & Partners competition lawyers excel in matters relating to merger control and the related regulations, competition violation cases, abuse of dominant market position and competition issues related to advertisements. The team advises both domestic and foreign clients across the energy and fuels sectors and manufacturing and retail companies. Milen Rusev leads the practice and has extensive experience advising on all competition aspects of M&A transactions, while Ivelina Cherneva advises on unfair competition cases and provides ongoing advice relating to competition law.

Practice head(s):

Milen Rusev


Other key lawyers:

Ivelina Cherneva


Testimonials

‘A highly experienced team which delivers results in the most efficient way. Business oriented, with services that create value.’

‘Experienced and hands on individuals at all levels of the firm.’

Key clients

3M Bulgaria


AP Retail I


Sofia South Ring Mall


Imerys Minerals Bulgaria AD


Daskalantonakis Group of Companies


Eko Bulgaria EAD


CRD Sport


Work highlights


  • Advised CRD Sport in the successful acquisition of a Bulgarian first-division professional football club.
  • Assisted Hellenic Dairies in obtaining unconditional merger clearance by the Bulgarian merger regulator, of the acquisition of United Milk Company.

Georgiev, Todorov & Co

Unfair competition, abuse of dominant position, trademark infringement and public procurement matters are among some of the work undertaken by the ‘outstanding’ competition team at Georgiev, Todorov & Co. The practice also has a proven track record providing ongoing consultancy on local and EU regulations and competition matters. It counts major retail companies and telecoms operators as clients, including long-term client Vivacom. Practice head Alexander Pachamanov is particularly experienced in the telecommunications and transport sectors in all matters relating to competition and is well supported by 'amazing lawyer' Tsvetelina Dimitrova  who has considerable experience in European Union law and its regulatory framework.

Practice head(s):

Alexander Pachamanov


Other key lawyers:

Tsvetelina Dimitrova


Testimonials

‘One of the strengths of the firm in my opinion is the team of professionals. We have been advised also on competition matters and intellectual property and I highly recommend these practices as well. The firm has all tools to provide excellent legal servicing.’

‘The whole team of Georgiev, Todorov & Co. is outstanding. However, we work mostly with Tzvetelina Dimitrova, who is partner in the firm. She is an amazing lawyer with strong knowledge on banking & finance, competition law and intellectual property. She is not only outstanding professional, who has been providing excellent legal services but also a great person with a friendly attitude.’

Key clients

Viva Corporate Bulgaria


Albena Sport OOD


AWANTYS GmbH, AWANTYS Germany GmbH, AWALYA EOOD


BORICA


Bulgarian Telecommunication Company (BTC)


METRO Cash & Carry Bulgaria EOOD


Real Systems


Sofia Bikes Association


Agricultural State Fund


Roche Bulgaria


Work highlights


  • Advised Viva Corporate Bulgaria EOOD in the merger control clearance procedure before the Commission for Protection of Competition when the company acquired 100 % from the Bulsatcom shares in a deal worth EUR 122 million.
  • Advises AWANTYS GmbH in relation to negotiations and preparation of an agreement between AWANTYS Group and Gotmar EOOD, for cessation of competitive activity.
  • Provides ongoing support to METRO Cash & Carry Bulgaria on competition and consumer protection issues in the course of their advertising campaigns, as well as on their commercial sales and promotions.

Hristov & Partners

Hristov & Partners are well regarded for their experience advising on domestic and multi-jurisdictional M&A transactions, including all competition related aspects of a deal, such as merger control reviews and restrictive covenants. The team additionally advises on day-to-day competition matters related to advertisements and promotional campaigns. Corporate/M&A expert Pavel Hristov leads the practice, and is supported by Dragomir Stefanov in the team.

Practice head(s):

Pavel Hristov


Other key lawyers:

Dragomir Stefanov


Testimonials

‘The people are professional, open and communication is easy. Advice is delivered in due time, it’s brief, clear, easy to go through and is business oriented.’

‘Easy going, easy to communicate with, professional.’

Key clients

Integrity Capital Investments


Reckitt Benckiser Inc.


DanubeTruck Bulgaria


Notino


Fujitsu General


ALD Automotive


European Bank for Reconstruction and Development


Athletic Commerce


Sulzer GmbH


IWG


Work highlights


  • Advised Integrity Capital Investment on the sale of its shares, among other investors, in Fidelis Research to BioIVT, a portfolio company of Linden Capital Partners.
  • Advised Athletic Commerce on the sale of 65% of its shares in the e-commerce specialist AIOPSGROUP to valantic GmbH.
  • Advised Fujitsu General on merger control aspects related to a multi-jurisdictional acquisition.

Jordanov, Ignatov, Ivanov Law Firm

Multinational corporations, Bulgarian companies and governmental bodies regularly turn to Jordanov, Ignatov, Ivanov Law Firm for advice during unfair competition cases and for acquisition and merger clearance, where the team frequently appears before the Bulgarian Commission and the European Commission. The firm shows particular strength advising across the energy and increasingly the logistics sectors and counts a number of high-profile clients in its roster. Dimitar Ivanov leads the practice and is supported by senior associate Svetlana Valeva who together ‘work perfectly as a team’ according to clients.

Practice head(s):

Dimitar Ivanov


Other key lawyers:

Svetlana Valeva


Testimonials

‘JII Law Firm offers exceptional legal services across a wide spectrum of legal areas. Their EU and Competition Legal Practice is unrivaled, encompassing a broad range of expertise in competition law, including antitrust, merger clearance, compliance, and litigation.’

‘Our main point of contact within the EU and Competition department at JII Law Firm is the highly capable Svetlana Valeva, who closely collaborates with the esteemed partner, Dimitar Ivanov. Both of these individuals exemplify excellence in the legal profession. What sets Svetlana and Dimitar apart is their business-oriented approach. When we approach them with inquiries or concerns, they don’t just provide legal answers; they tailor their responses to our specific business needs and objectives. This pragmatic and solution-focused mindset has proven invaluable in our interactions.’

‘Our key contacts at the law firm are Dimitar Ivanov and Svetlana Valeva. Both are very responsive and work perfectly as a team. Dimitar always provides practical and business-oriented advice. Svetlana is very focused and dedicated to what she does. She is very diligent, expedient, and accurate.’

‘What truly sets JII Law Firm apart is their outstanding team, encompassing professionals from all departments, including the EU and Competition Department. Each member of their team embodies excellence, offering a depth of legal knowledge, dedication, and strategic insight that has been pivotal to our legal success.’

‘Svetlana Valeva is undoubtedly a valuable asset within the JII Law Firm team. Throughout our engagement, Svetlana demonstrated an in-depth understanding of the intricacies of merger clearance, particularly in the context of local competition authorities.’

‘In matters pertaining to EU law and competition, Svetlana Valeva has been our invaluable point of contact at JII Law Firm. She stands out as an unparalleled expert in these domains, possessing an exceptional reputation in the legal community.’

‘One of JII Law Firm’s standout attributes is their team of seasoned legal professionals. Their lawyers ensure that our legal concerns are not just addressed but also strategically managed for our benefit. This has been particularly evident in their handling of EU and competition matters, where their in-depth knowledge and strategic insights have consistently provided us with a competitive advantage.’

‘The extensive experience and profound understanding of the senior associate Svetlana Valeva in EU law and competition regulations have proven to be instrumental in guiding us through intricate compliance issues, antitrust concerns, and complex legal challenges.’

Key clients

Plesio Computers


Didis Kitchen


Ministry of Energy


Coca Cola Hellenic Bottling Company


Xella Bulgaria


Leader 96


Mundus Services


UVI United Vision


Aqua Lens


Lenses BG


Effect 2002


Genik Kafe Reshenia


SP Rentals


Smart Organic


Tavilog


BPD Ring Road


Varna Logistics


BPD Industrial Real Estate Fund


Work highlights


  • Represented Didy’s Kitchen in a case pertaining to the application of Regulation (EU) No 1407/2013 concerning Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on de minimis aid.
  • Represent Mundus Services before a new panel of the first instance court.
  • Advised on the acquisition of Varna Logistics EOOD by an investment, insurance and banking group, including supporting the transaction on all acquisition clearance aspects before the Commission for Protection of Competition.

Penkov, Markov & Partners

Penkov, Markov & Partners advises on merger control clearance matters for high-profile mergers and acquisitions, most recently in the insurance sector for client Unilink S.A., who they represented before the Commission for the protection of Competition regarding the acquisition of SDI Group. The team is adept in all areas of unfair competition and procedural representation before Bulgarian courts. The team is jointly led by chairman Vladimir Penkov who has more than 20 years’ experience in the field of competition law and Smilena Hrusanova who is well versed in complex transactions and the related merger clearance proceedings. The team also includes key practitioner Vencislav Semkov .

 

Practice head(s):

Vladimir Penkov; Smilena Hrusanova


Other key lawyers:

Vencislav Semkov; Ivan Markov


Testimonials

‘Compared to other companies I have worked with, the team is much wider and with expertise in every possible area. We have worked on many different projects and every time the support was on time and with strong expertise level. Communication is easy going and effective.’

‘Vladimir Penkov is a great leader taking participation in every project to ensure the quality and the scope of the preparation to be on the best possible level.’

‘Outstanding lawyers with great expertise and full commitment to the matter. Highly recommendable!’

‘Penkov, Markov are highly competent and try to stick to the agreed deadlines. They have a lot of experience in the Bulgarian market, so they know the specifics quite well. They provide highly practical suggestions to topics raised to them.’

‘Ivan Markov and Smilena Hrusanova are top experts in competition law.’

‘Very professional, very precise and very easy in the communication. A strength of the practice is that they have specialized people for the different fields of law and needs of the client.’

‘The level of proficiency is very high. One can fully trust the advice given by the people and the practice.’

‘The team of Penkov, Markov & Partners demonstrated exceptional qualities that set them apart in the legal industry. Some of their main strengths and key capabilities include their expertise and specialization, their client-centric approach and strong communication skills.’

Key clients

Unilink S.A.


Klett Bulgaria


ENICOM-M


Heineken Group and Bulgarian subsidiary Zagorka AD


Pierre Fabre Bulgaria EOOD


Mania Shops


Correct Consulting Ltd and SM Control Ltd.


Xella Bulgaria EOOD


Coca Cola Hellenic Bottling Company Bulgaria AD


EMKO EOOD


MVB Truck and Bus Bulgaria AD


Andreas Stihl EOOD


Knauf Bulgaria EOOD


Berlin Chemie AG


Work highlights


  • Advising Unilink S.A. on the merger control clearance before CPC regarding the EUR 35,000,000 acquisition of SDI Group (the largest insurance broker in Bulgaria) by its Bulgarian subsidiary – Unilink Bulgaria EOOD.
  • Advised Andreas STIHL EOOD on the competition aspects of the termination of its selective distribution agreement with one of its main distributors in Bulgaria with a potential exposure of circa EUR 1,470,000.
  • Advising Berlin Chemie AG on a dispute with a Bulgarian company regarding parallel import of medicines where alleged artificial partitioning of the internal EU market is invoked by the parallel importer.

Schoenherr

Schoenherr‘s multidisciplinary approach enables the firm to excel in EU law and competition matters across many sectors, including technology, telecommunications, energy and financial services. The team’s varied case load includes guidance through antitrust proceedings before the Bulgarian competition authorities and courts, unfair trade matters, daily ongoing support with all issues relating to competition law as well as a particular focus on merger control proceedings. Corporate and M&A lawyer Ilko Stoyanov and Galina Petkova who specialises in EU and competition matters, antitrust and compliance law, jointly lead the practise.

Practice head(s):

Ilko Stoyanov; Galina Petkova


Testimonials

‘The team provides prompt and high-quality services where the motivation of the lawyers and their level of expertise are constantly expressed. We assess the level of service as excellent, and we emphasize that the answers to the legal questions were provided by Schoenherr law office in due time. Responses were accurate and always provided in close cooperation with in-house lawyers of the company.

‘We can mention Galina Petkova because her exceptional expertise in EU legislation and competition matters. She always demonstrates problem-solving attitudes, and she is extremely devoted to the results in client’s interests due to his excellent knowledge of the industry.’

Key clients

EBRD, Beneficiary: Ministry of energy


Shimano


Bulstrad Life Vienna Insurance Group


Oiltanking GmbH


Carrier Global Corporation


Dentatechnika EOOD


Rubble Master HMH GmbH


Bosch.IO EOOD


GTC Bulgaria


Hisense Europe Holding GmbH


Autodesk, Inc.


Vivacom Bulgaria


Bosch Software Innovations


Robert Bosch OOD


Intersnack Bulgaria EOOD


MET Group


OMV Bulgaria OOD


Ringier AG


UNIQA Real Estate GmbH


Work highlights


  • Assists EBRD with the implementation of Investment 6 under the RRP (Project RES and Batteries) and Investment 8 under the RRP (Project RESTORE), which represent the most important energy projects under the Bulgarian Recovery and Resilience Plan.
  • Advised Shimano in relation to obtaining of merger control clearance with respect to the acquisition of sole control over Eurotrade.
  • Advised Bulstrad Life Vienna Insurance Group in relation to obtaining merger control clearance with respect to the acquisition of joint control over Amerimed.

Wolf Theiss

Wolf Theiss covers the full suite of competition matters, including but not limited too antitrust and abuse of dominant market position cases, unfair trade practises, horizontal agreements and merger control proceedings for major transactions on both a national and multinational scale. Anna Rizova leads the team and has regulatory expertise covering a number of sectors and extends the firms offering to the North Macedonian market, being head of the firms North Macedonia desk. Antitrust lawyer Hristina Dzhevlekova further strengthens the practise.

Practice head(s):

Anna Rizova


Other key lawyers:

Hristina Dzhevlekova


Testimonials

‘Wolf Theiss Bulgaria team has highly skilled professionals, hardworking and responsive lawyers who love the game, love the challenge that the profession offers. They have existed for a long time on the market and are constantly improving their capacities and pushing the limits.’

‘Hristina Dzhevlekova’s professionalism, responsiveness, depth and preciseness of legal advice is constant. Her easily understandable, well-grounded and business oriented advice meets every client’s expectations.’

‘The competition team we worked with led by Hristina Dzhevlekova is really outstanding and is able to navigate through the extremely complex regulatory environments in Bulgaria and North Macedonia, as well as internationally. The team is well educated, knowledgeable and very responsive – you can always be sure that will take care and give proper advice.’

‘Hristina Dzhevlekova is an impressive lawyer and remarkable expert in this field. Being our main contact – I can only express my gratitude and satisfaction, she is highly competent and one step ahead of most other lawyers. What we value the most is her dedication to the work and that she is truly interested in delivering the best advice for us. She just goes the extra mile, and we receive real advice and also remarkable solutions. What she provides is different level of legal service.’

Key clients

Acrisure


Raiffeisen Bank International


BNP Paribas


Edgecap Partners


Pet Network International


3S Investment


4iG


Emil Frey


Bulgarian Federation of Industrial Energy Consumers (BFIEC)


MET Group


Renalfa


Work highlights


  • Advising Acrisure on the acquisition of Unilink in six jurisdictions, including the merger clearance aspect.
  • Advised Raiffeisen Bank International on the sale to KBC Bank of 100% of the shares of Raiffeisen Bank (Bulgaria) EAD.
  • Advised Edgecap Partners during the EdgeCap-Comac Medical acquisition.

Bouzeva & Partners Law Firm

Bouzeva & Partners Law Firm advise clients in the IT, retail and energy sectors on abuse of dominance, unfair trading practises, antitrust investigations and proceedings and all related competition aspects of mergers and acquisitions. The team led by Nikolay Daskalov also has extensive expertise in the EU regulatory framework. Key team member Rumyana Ivanova has some 10 years of experience in antitrust and unfair commercial practices in addition to consumer protection and data protection expertise.

Practice head(s):

Nikolay Daskalov


Other key lawyers:

Rumyana Ivanova


Testimonials

‘The attorneys at Bouzeva & Partners specializing in competition and antitrust law offer a combination of technical expertise, strategic thinking, exceptional communication, and adaptability. Their collaborative approach and dedication to understanding both legal and economic intricacies make them invaluable partners in navigating the complexities of competition law and antitrust.’

‘We frequently collaborate with Nikolay Daskalov and Rumyana Ivanova on a wide range of competition law issues. Nikolay has great knowledge of the business environment. He is a great competition lawyer and a standout expert in competition and antitrust law. Rumyana has a strategic thinking, great communication and organizational skills. She possesses knowledge of the various cases of the Bulgarian Commission on Protection of Competition in our business sector and adapts really well and quickly to all situations.

‘What makes the practice of Bouzeva & Partners Law Firm truly unique is not only their legal expertise but also their ability to seamlessly blend it with an in-depth understanding of our business and the complex dynamics of the energy sector. They proved not only as legal advisors, but also as strategic partners dedicated to the success of our company in the always evolving energy landscape.’

‘Bouzeva & Partners Law Firm has great lawyers which specialize in the field of energy, EU and competition law. Nikolay Daskalov is an exceptional lawyer. We have always had strong faith and held unwavering trust in his legal expertise in the energy sector and also in the competition and state aid practices.’

‘Key capabilities of the team are efficiency, adequately reaction in short terms and complicated matters, intelligent approach and knowing the client.’

‘Best EU and competition practice in europe!’

Key clients

Bulgarian Energy Holding


Bulgargaz


Bulgartransgaz


Sofia Municipality


Toplofikacia Sofia


Meridiam / SOF Connect


Bulgarian Electricity System Security Fund


REWE Group / BILLA


Association of Modern Trade


Stemo


Ministry of Transport and Communications


Work highlights


  • Represented the Bulgarian Energy Holding, and its subsidiaries Bulgargaz and Bulgartransgaz in an antitrust case in connection with an investigation of the European Commission regarding an alleged abuse of dominant position in the energy sector.
  • Advising BILLA Bulgaria in relation to an antitrust investigation initiated by the Commission on Protection of Competition examining potential anti-competitive practices leading to high food prices.
  • Advised Sofia Airport’s concessionaire, SOF Connect, on all state aid related aspects in connection with the rebalancing of the concession agreement due to COVID-19’s impact on the aviation industry, including on the obtainment of state aid clearance before the EU Commission.

Ernst & Young Law Partnership

Ernst & Young Law Partnership advises in merger control cases, abuse of dominant market position, unfair competition matters as well as providing clients with training on staying compliant with competition law. The firm is frequently involved in cross-border matters pertaining to EU law, and actively advises across the IT, retail, banking and financial services sectors, among others. Recently promoted partner Svetlin Adrianov, Yura Mincheva and Irina Yaneva jointly lead the practice.

Practice head(s):

Svetlin Adrianov; Yura Mincheva; Irina Yaneva


Testimonials

‘EY Law has younger practice and are very ambitious to show their value. They have some experienced partners (Svetlin Adrianov and Yura Mincheva) with whom we worked previously and we are happy with their pragmatic and competent advice. Also, we rely on their international and cross-country expertise as a multinational advisory. They provide highly practical suggestions to topics raised to them.’

‘Svetlin Adrianov and Yura Mincheva are top experts in competition law. We frequently ask and receive high-quality advice from them.’

Key clients

DEMA Com Ltd and Desislava Petrova


Mexon OOD


Lilly Drogerie EOOD


Iventas


UNION OF BREWERS IN BULGARIA


Tata Consultancy Services


America for Bulgaria Foundation


VITRONIC Dr.-Ing. Stein Bildverarbeitungssysteme GmbH


Central Cooperative Bank AD


American Express Payments Europe S.L


European Investment Bank (EIB)


Work highlights


  • Assisted Iventas in the appeal of the decision of the Bulgarian Commission for Protection of Competition (“CPC”) by which Iventas had been fined for prohibited vertical agreements with its retailer clients. The team successfully represented the client before both the Sofia Province Administrative Court and the Supreme Administrative Court.
  • Assisted Vitronic in a major public procurement procedure in Bulgaria, including the preparation of the tender documentation.
  • Provides ongoing legal support to American Express Payments Europe S.L in Bulgaria on various issues related to compliance with the local AML&CTF framework and relations with the local agent, POSTBANK.

Popov, Arnaudov & Partners

Popov, Arnaudov & Partners commercial law and regulations practice is involved in reviewing clients’ internal practices and training employees to ensure they are compliant with EU law, as well as advising on a variety of competition matters, including on promotional campaigns and competition aspects of M&A transactions. The team is jointly led by Sibina Eftenova and Hristo Koparanov.

Practice head(s):

Sibina Eftenova; Hristo Koparanov


Other key lawyers:

Svilena Dimitrova


Testimonials

‘The team is amazing and well put together. They always approach the tasks with care and precision, and they always meet deadlines.’

‘Each lawyer is a tremendous professional. The qualities I appreciate in them are accuracy, precision, ambition and a huge desire to work.’

‘Our primary contact is lawyer Svilena Dimitrova. Her strengths are speed, thoroughness, quality, and meeting deadlines.’

Key clients

Commission for Consumer Protection


Kenes Group


Aiko Multi Concept / Moemax Bulgaria


Selectium Bulgaria Ltd


Botevgrad municipality


Executive agency Bulgarian National film center


UniCredit Consumer Financing


PROPHON


Megadom


Stroynorm Ltd


Hydro and Spa


Wuerth Electronic Bulgaria


Bricolage


Work highlights


PPG Lawyers

PPG Lawyers competition and consumer protection practice increasingly focuses on merger control aspects of M&A transactions, however, the team is frequently approached by clients for advice on antitrust matters, unfair competition cases and general business advice on consumer protection law. Expert in competition and consumer protection law Mariya Papazova leads the practice.

Practice head(s):

Mariya Papazova


Testimonials

‘Competition law in Bulgaria was intricate and complex for our client. However, during this process, their teams facilitated our client’s smoother navigation through the process with the legal support they provided. They explained the complex procedures to our client in detail, thus enabling the client to complete the process.’

‘Their team consists of highly knowledgeable and expert individuals in their respective fields. Thanks to the legal support the team provided, the process concluded swiftly. The quality of their service was one of the reassuring elements for both our client and us during this process.’

Work highlights


  • Advised and represented successfully Copa Isı Sistemleri San. Ve Tic. A.Ş before the Bulgarian Competition Protection Commission (CPC) and the court on case regarding unfair competition concerning allegations for setting prices of steel panel radiators produced by the company under the prime costs.
  • Advised and represented KKCG Group and Aricoma Group International AB before CPC on merger control of the acquisition of sole control over Musala Soft AD and its subsidiaries.
  • Advised and represented ETEM Commercial and Industrial Light Metals S.A. (ETEM) and Cosmos Aluminium A.E. (Cosmos) on merger control before CPC regarding merger between them by way of absorption of ETEM by COSMOS.