Firms To Watch: EU and competition law

Luciano Vasques leads the antitrust and competition practice at DDPV Studio Legale, which is experienced in antitrust investigations by the Italian and EU authorities, private enforcement litigation and merger control.
Deloitte Legal Italy -Società tra Avvocati a r.l.‘s antitrust practice is headed by of counsel Emilio Cucchiara, a former Chiomenti counsel, who acts in EU and Italian competition law proceedings before the European Commission and the Italian Competition Authority.
Orsingher Ortu – Avvocati Associati launched its antitrust practice in late 2021 when it hired Rome-based competition law specialist Edoardo Cazzato from LC&P - Lipani Catricalà & Partners, where he coordinated the antitrust and regulatory department.

EU and competition law in Italy

BonelliErede

BonelliErede advises on the competition issues faced by energy, telecoms, luxury goods and transportation sector companies. It also houses specialists in the banking, new technology, digital and media sectors, and clients additionally benefit from the firm’s competition litigation task force, which draws together competition law and civil litigation expertise. Department coordinator Francesco Anglani focuses on cartel and abuse of dominant position cases; Sara Lembo advises on EU, antitrust and regulatory law; and Claudio Tesauro advises on concentrations, restrictive agreements and abuse of dominant position. Giorgio Bitonto and Pasquale Leone (a recent hire from Clifford Chance) are experienced managing associates, while Marta Contu is an active associate.

Practice head(s):

Francesco Anglani

Other key lawyers:

Sara Lembo; Claudio Tesauro; Marta Contu; Giorgio Bitonto; Pasquale Leone

Testimonials

‘The staff is highly trained professionally and attentive to clients’ needs.’

‘Great availability and attention to detail.’

‘Efficient, effective and available.’

Key clients

PagoPA

DRS Italia

Vodafone Italia

Gamestop Italy

Ardian France

CA Consumer Finance

Generali Italia

Genertel

Ryanair DAC

Banca Nazionale del Lavoro

Telecom Italia

Unieuro

Monclick

Investindustrial

Enel Energia

Stellantis NV

EssilorLuxottica

Google Ireland

Ernst & Young

EY Advisory

FIAMM Energy Technology

Roxtec AB

Roxtec Italia

Cassa Depositi e Prestiti

Moncler

Tod’s

Loro Piana

Max Mara

Herno

Vitalaire Italia

Unilever Italia Mkt. Operations

Facile.it Broker di Assicurazioni

Work highlights

  • Assisted Telecom Italia with obtaining the annulment of a decision by the Italian Competition Authority to impose a fine of approximately €114m on the client for an agreement allegedly restricting competition.
  • Acted for Telecom Italia (and its subsidiary Telecom Italia Sparkle) in obtaining the annulment of a decision of the Italian Competition Authority to sanction companies for abuse of dominant position in the A2P SMS market.
  • Assisted CercAssicurazioni.it (Mol Group), Genertel (Generali Group), Verti Assicurazioni and Facile.it Broker di Assicurazioni with Italian Competition Authority proceedings to ascertain whether the parties had implemented an anti-competitive agreement.

Chiomenti

Chiomenti fields a go-to team for abuse of dominant position, cartel, and merger notification cases before the Italian Competition Authority and the EU Commission. Other areas of expertise include state aid proceedings, administrative and civil litigation, and antitrust audit and compliance programmes. The team is jointly headed by EU and Italian competition law specialist Cristoforo Osti, and Gian Michele Roberti, who focuses on both national and EU-level proceedings. Other key partners are Guido Bellitti and Marco Serpone, while counsel Alessandra Prastaro and senior associate Patrick Actis Perinetto are also active practitioners.

Practice head(s):

Cristoforo Osti; Gian Michele Roberti

Other key lawyers:

Guido Bellitti; Marco Serpone; Alessandra Prastaro; Patrick Actis Perinetto; Isabella Perego

Testimonials

‘The team really knows how the authority thinks.’

‘Great knowledge and a practical approach.’

‘Highly competent.’

‘Prepared, polite and always available.’

‘A very high-quality team.’

‘Marco Serpone is extremely supportive in relation to the resolution of problems.’

‘Isabella Perego in Brussels is extremely competent, and has great knowledge of the dossier and the clients’ needs. She also has a really strong legal background.’

Key clients

A Menarini Industrie Farmaceutiche Riunite

Abiogen Pharma

Adolf Wuerth

Aeroporti di Roma

Alba Leasing

Aldi

Alfasigma

Allianz Direct

Allianz

Alten Europe

Amministrazione Straordinaria di Alitalia LAI

Angelini

Apollo Management International

Areti

Artemide Group

Asterion Industrial Partners

Avio

Banca Generali

Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena

Banca Popolare di Bari

Best in Parking

BMW

BMW Bank (Italian branch)

BNP-Paribas Securities

BPER Banca

Buzzi Unicem

Camfin

Capvis

CCPL

CDP Venture Capital SGR

Cementi Moccia

Centrale Adriatica

Confcommercio Mantova

Compañía de Distribución Integral Logista Holdings

CONAI Consorzio Nazionale Imballaggi

Coop Alleanza 3.0

Coop Centro Italia SC

Coop Italia s.c.

Cooperativa Sociale Nuova Sair Onlus

Crédit Agricole Cariparma

Edison

Eni

Esso Italiana

Esprinet

Expedia

F2i ER 1

F2i-Fondi Italiani per le infrastrutture

Fidia Farmaceutici

Finaf (Angelini Group)

FlixBus Italia

Flutter Entertainment

FOMAS

Friedkin Group

FSI Investimenti

Garmin (Europe)

Gilead Sciences

Gofundme Ireland

Gruppo ASTM

Gruppo Cattolica

Gruppo Unicomm

Harley Davidson Europe

Henkel

HomeAway (gruppo Expedia/VRBO)

Industrie Riunite Odolesi

InPoste.it

Intesa Sanpaolo

Investindustrial VI LP

ION Investment Group

ITA – Italia Trasporto Aereo (ITA Airways)

Kinto Italia

KKR & Co

La Veggia

Laziocrea

Leonardo

Lyconet Italia

Lyoness Italia

Mediaset

Mimete

myWorld Italia

Neuraxpharm Italy

Notorious Pictures

Opel Bank

Philip Morris Italia

Portobello Capital Gestion SGEIC

Prenatal Retail Group

Premium

PUNCH Torino

Rete Ferroviaria Italiana

Rhone Group

Robert Bosch

Saipem

Senior Italia Federanziani

SIAE – Società Italiana Autori e Editori

Sipcam Oxon

SOFAR

Sojitz Marine & Engineering Corporation

SUEZ Group

Tannico

Telepass

Tivù

Toyota Financial Corporation

Toyota Financial Services

Toyota Motor Italia

Treccani Reti

Unicoop Firenze

Unicoop Tirreno

Unipol Rental

UnipolSai Assicurazioni

Unem – Unione Energie per la Mobilità

Vivendi

Volkswagen

Walsin Lihwa Corporation

Wind Tre

Zurich Insurance Company – Rappresentanza Generale per l’Italia

Work highlights

  • Advising BPER Banca on its acquisition of control of Banca Carige.
  • Assisted Toyota Financial Services, BMW Bank and Opel Bank in class action proceedings, based on follow-on damages claims surrounding the finding of an antitrust infringement by the Italian Competition Authority.

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton

Housing ‘the leading antitrust team in Italy‘, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP‘s Italy group consistently advises on state aid, abuse of dominant position cases, and restrictive agreements and practices. It also assists with M&A-related authorisations, and major administrative and civil litigation. Senior counsel Mario Siragusa is a renowned EU and Italian competition law expert; Marco D’Ostuni is ‘an excellent competition lawyer‘; and Matteo Beretta is an antitrust specialist. Cesare Rizza and Gianluca Faella are key counsels, while Saverio ValentinoFausto Caronna and recently promoted Alice Setari are experienced senior attorneys.

Other key lawyers:

Marco D’Ostuni; Matteo Beretta; Mario Siragusa; Cesare Rizza; Gianluca Faella; Saverio Valentino; Fausto Caronna; Alice Setari; Luciana Bellia

Testimonials

‘Outstanding – the best team around from a technical standpoint.’

‘Great empathy with the client and quick to understand sector features.’

‘Strong levels of competence, knowledge and a problem-solving approach.’

Key clients

SNAM

TIM

Worldline

Sky Italia

Smurfit Kappa

Philips

Magaldi

Medigas

Samsung

Poste Italiane

F Hoffmann

La Roche

Santander Consumer Bank

Assilea – Associazione Italiana Leasing

Eni

Deloitte Consulting

Ferrovie dello Stato

Servizio Elettrico Nazionale

Google

Unicredit

Ryanair

Consorzio Interuniversitario CINECA

Fondo Interbancario di Tutela dei Depositi

Pirelli

Vivendi

Baxter

Coca Cola

Fendi

Guess

Gucci

Euronext

Lottomatica

F2i

SACE

AFV Beltrame

DHL

Work highlights

  • Advised SNAM on the antitrust and regulatory aspects of the acquisition of a 49.9% stake in companies that operate two gas pipelines connecting Algeria to Italy.
  • Defended TIM against a large-value civil claim for damages that was brought by Open Fiber in relation to alleged anti-competitive conduct involving ultra-broad brand services.
  • Successfully represented Philips, Philips Innovations, Philips Medical Systems Nederland, and parent company Koninklijke Philips in proceedings concerning the alleged existence of an abuse of dominant position in the high-tech diagnostic imaging device maintenance market.

Gianni & Origoni

Gianni & Origoni houses ‘one of the best teams around‘. The competition department covers merger notifications, cartel cases (including follow-on private enforcement cases), and abuse of dominance matters. It also provides distribution law advice at Italian and European levels. Piero Fattori is operations manager of the competition and regulatory practice, which also showcases Alberto Pera, ‘a go-to practitioner within the antitrust area‘; Eva Cruellas Sada, whose track record includes several Italian Competition Authority cases; competition law specialist Matteo Padellaro; and the ‘highly valuableSalvatore Spagnuolo. Andrea Pezza is an experienced associate.

Practice head(s):

Piero Fattori

Other key lawyers:

Alberto Pera; Eva Cruellas Sada; Matteo Padellaro; Salvatore Spagnuolo; Andrea Pezza

Testimonials

‘One of the best teams around, and its lawyers get along very well with each and with the client. Timely and accurate in their feedback on any issue that happens to be raised, and the firm is outstanding in each and every department.’

‘The practice is made unique by its exceptional ability to tailor the work to the client’s real needs.’

‘The antitrust team is highly qualified and very business oriented, and handles complicated issues quickly and in a practical way. Clients also appreciate how they involve young team members, letting them actively join discussions or presentations.’

‘Piero Fattori has a very solid background, especially in the judicial field where he has the rare ability to assist clients in assessing the pro and cons of any possible initiative.’

‘Piero Fattori and Andrea Pezza are legal counsellors that some clients can only dream of. They are a stronghold for any issue faced by business associations in very competitive environments. It is not so common to deal with such highly rated professionals, who are so committed to problem solving for clients while also being very decent people.’

Alberto Pera is a go-to practitioner within the antitrust area, both in Italy and in Brussels, particularly for his deep experience in the functioning of EU and Italian authorities and institutions, but also for his knowledge of the law and commercial sense.

‘Matteo Padellaro deserves to be mentioned for his way of assisting clients – his strength is that he is almost always available on very short notice to exchange views on how to smooth out processes or resolve issues.’

‘Salvatore Spagnuolo is highly valuable as a strategic thinker and knows both the substantive and the procedural pitfalls very well, and how to avoid them in an efficient manner.’

Key clients

Bancomat

HDI Assicurazioni

Prima assicurazioni

Sintexcal

Angelini Holding

Haier

Assotelecomunicazioni – Asstel

eBay

Telecom Italia

UniCredit

Assicurazioni Generali

Ania

Trenitalia

Moby – CIN

Eni

Italgas

Iren

Ferragamo

MSD

Rekeep

Maddalena

Leadiant

CoReVe

Eurospin

Generali Italia

Work highlights

  • Assisted Eni with the antitrust aspects of the sale to Snam of a 49.9% stake in companies operating two groups of gas pipelines that connect Algeria to Italy.
  • Assisted Telecom Italia with the implementation of commitments that were attached to a decision by the European Commission to clear the acquisition of joint control over INWIT by Telecom Italia and Vodafone.
  • Assisted Assicurazioni Generali with the antitrust aspects of the acquisition of control of Società Cattolica di Assicurazione (through a voluntary public takeover offer).

ADVANT Nctm

The Milan-based antitrust and competition group at ADVANT Nctm covers the entire spectrum of competition law before the European Commission, the Italian Competition Authority, and the Italian regulatory authorities. The team is also able to leverage the experience of its German and French colleagues from ADVANT Beiten and ADVANT Altana, respectively, following the launch of European legal network ADVANT. Practice head Luca Toffoletti assists companies in investigative proceedings by the competition authorities, appeal proceedings before the administrative courts, and antitrust damages actions. Toffoletti also assists with competition law advisory matters, such as antitrust compliance programmes. Francesco Mazzocchi is also an Italian and EU competition law specialist, who is experienced in state aid law and antitrust litigation, including private enforcement work.

Practice head(s):

Luca Toffoletti

Other key lawyers:

Francesco Mazzocchi

Testimonials

‘The big difference is its people, and the ease with which communications and tasks are approached and discussed.’

‘Dealing with this team of professionals is easy and amicable, with clear messages and suggestions delivered.’

‘A good law firm with good business-thinking and a solid approach.’

‘Full-service with proper specialists in each branch of law – very efficient service, and the team is rapid and affordable.’

‘The NCTM team works with outstanding professionalism and commitment in order to meet deadlines.’

‘Clients appreciate the ability to cover all necessary fields, and the team’s flexibility in the event of changing scenarios.’

‘Particular mention goes to Luca Toffoletti, who is really competent and able to explain even the most complicated concepts/rules.’

‘Luca Toffoletti always approaches topics from a practical perspective, providing clear guidelines.’

Key clients

Curium

Lega Nazionale Professionisti Serie A

MSC

Vision Group

Vodafone Italia

Deliveroo

Feltrinelli

Unieuro

De Agostini

Cogne Acciai Speciali

Banco Desio e della Brianza

Linde

Work highlights

  • Assisting Curium Italy with proceedings opened by the Italian Competition Authority for alleged bid rigging in relation to public and private hospital tenders.
  • Assisting Lega Calcio (as claimant) with a follow-on damages case ensuing from a cartel involving the marketing of the international broadcasting rights of Serie A, Serie B, Coppa Italia and Supercoppa.
  • Assisted Vision Group before the European Commission in relation to the antitrust aspects of the acquisition of 174 stores in Italy from EssilorLuxottica.

Clifford Chance

The Italy practice at Clifford Chance covers merger control work, anti-competitive agreements, abuse of dominance proceedings and state aid. It also assists with foreign direct investment, consumer protection issues and private enforcement. The career of Italy antitrust department head Luciano Di Via includes ten years at the Italian Competition Authority, while his sector expertise covers the retail, insurance, energy, telecoms, and food and beverage industries. Associate-level support is provided by EU and Italian competition law specialist Antonio Mirabile, and cartel and abusive conduct expert Maria Bazzini (a 2022 hire from Grimaldi Studio Legale).

Practice head(s):

Luciano Di Via

Other key lawyers:

Antonio Mirabile; Maria Bazzini

Key clients

Admiral Group

Atlantia

Conserve Italia

Hoshizaki Corporation

Infrastructure Investment Fund

Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets

Mastercard

Mitsui & Co

Sanoma

Vivaticket

Arvedi

Carrefour

Cassa Depositi e Prestiti

CVC

Easyjet

Enel

Partners Group

Permira

Syngenta

Work highlights

  • Assisted Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets with the antitrust and Golden Power filing for the acquisition of a controlling stake in Open Fiber’s corporate capital.
  • Assisting Mastercard before the Italian Competition Authority in relation to an investigation into an alleged abuse of dominant position in the Italian payment card market.
  • Assisted a consortium (made up of Cassa Depositi e Prestiti, Blackstone and Macquarie) with the antitrust and Golden Power issues surrounding the acquisition of Autostrade per l’Italia.

DLA Piper

DLA Piper‘s ‘excellent team‘ consistently appears before the Italian Competition Authority, the European Commission, and civil and administrative courts. The Italy practice’s scope ranges from antitrust litigation, cartel cases, and horizontal and vertical agreements, to abuse of dominant position cases, merger control, and investigations and dawn raids. The group also advises on state aid, Golden Power procedures, compliance programmes, and unfair commercial practices. Alessandro Boso Caretta is ‘an exceptional competition and regulatory lawyer‘, while Domenico Gullo focuses on competition matters, EU law and consumer protection. Bice Di Sano is an experienced associate. Clients of the firm's Italian offices are also able to benefit from Aiscension, a groundbreaking AI-enabled service that the firm recently launched to detect cartel risks within corporations.

Practice head(s):

Alessandro Boso Caretta; Domenico Gullo

Other key lawyers:

Bice Di Sano; Massimo D’Andrea

Testimonials

‘The competition law team is very business oriented and ensures great competence. Other internal practices of DLA Italy also ensure outstanding levels of service in relation to different areas.’

‘Absolute seriousness and high levels of professionalism, antitrust experience, availability, and respect for clients’ deadlines.’

‘An excellent team. Very few firms can provide its mix of deep expertise, strong skills, knowledge of business, availability, and ability to provide clear guidance and manage complex issues smoothly.’

‘The team is well balanced, hands-on, open to innovation, very collaborative, and efficient.’

‘Alessandro Boso Caretta is always ready to give effective support, even within very short timeframes.’

‘Alessandro Boso Caretta is strongly recommended. He is an exceptional competition and regulatory lawyer – just brilliant.’

‘‘Alessandro Boso Caretta is well regarded by the market and reliable in all situations. It is very easy and pleasant to work with him and his team, which provides high-quality work and extremely valuable advice.’

‘Massimo D’Andrea and Bice Di Sano are very collaborative and supportive lawyers.’

Key clients

Algeco (Modulaire Group)

Engie

Iccrea Banca

Lidl

Ondulati e Imballaggi del Friuli

RCI Banque (Gruppo Renault)

Società Consortile Consorzi Agrari

Telecom Italia

United Parcel Service

Vodafone

Vodafone Automotive

Generali

ERG

Work highlights

  • Successfully assisted RCI Banque with the annulment of an Italian Competition Authority decision, which ascertained an alleged cartel involving the exchange of sensitive commercial information.
  • Assisted Telecom Italia with a merger control clearance matter, in relation to the acquisition of certain businesses of BT Group in Italy.
  • Acted for Vodafone in applying to annul an Italian Competition Authority decision, which imposed a fine for an alleged abuse of dominant position.

White & Case (Europe) LLP

White & Case (Europe) LLP fields ‘an excellent team with terrific breadth‘. The Italy competition practice’s track record includes heavyweight cartel and abuse of dominance investigations before the Italian Competition Authority. It also routinely advises on the merger control notification and clearance of major international deals. Veronica Pinotti represents Italian and international clients before the European Commission, the Italian and international competition and regulatory authorities, and the civil and administrative courts. Martino Sforza is ‘an exceptional lawyer‘, and associate Patrizia Pedretti focuses on EU and Italian antitrust and competition law.

Practice head(s):

Veronica Pinotti

Other key lawyers:

Martino Sforza; Patrizia Pedretti

Testimonials

‘An excellent team with terrific breadth and depth in a variety of areas arising from competition and antitrust, consumer protection and foreign investment issues.’

‘Veronica Pinotti and her team are able to provide legal assistance at the highest levels.’

‘Veronica Pinotti and her team have built a solid track record in antitrust law.’

‘Veronica Pinotti always knows what is going on and with whom to talk.’

‘Veronica Pinotti and Martino Sforza are extremely passionate and enthusiastic people – it is a pleasure to work with them’

‘Veronica Pinotti and Martino Sforza are both very effective.’

‘Exceptional lawyer Martino Sforza is always up to date on the law and case precedents – he is also excellent with detail.’

‘Patrizia Pedretti is a very good communicator.’

Key clients

Alstom

Amazon EU

Autosock Operations

BC Partners

Daikin

Daimler

Danone

Mellin

Nutricia Italia

Davide Campari Milano

Dyson

Eco-Bat

Energean Oil & Gas

Eni

Meta

Ferrero Italia

GVS

Heineken Italia

HSBC

Huawei Italia

Husky

Hytera

Hyundai Motor Company

Itron

Japan Tobacco International

McDonald’s

Fondazione Ronald McDonald Italia

MOL

Nestlé

Octapharma

Pastificio Rana

Peninsula Capital

Pernod Ricard

PFH – Palladio Holding

Pfizer Italia

Pro-Gest

Ralph Lauren Europe

Veronesi Holding

Warner Bros Entertainment Italia

Work highlights

  • Successfully assisted Warner Bros with cartel proceedings initiated by the Italian Competition Authority against ANICA, ANEC and ANEC Lazio, in relation to an alleged restrictive agreement.
  • Successfully represented Husky, an international manufacturer of PET container machines, in proceedings initiated by the Italian Competition Authority for alleged breach of abuse of dominant position rules.
  • Advised Nestlé on the European Commission notification and clearance of its acquisition (through its joint venture with competitor Lactalis) of certain Parmalat assets.

Studio Professionale Associato a Baker & McKenzie

Studio Professionale Associato a Baker & McKenzie‘s competition experience encompasses cartel and abuse of dominant position cases, Administrative Court appeals, and private antitrust enforcement actions. The practice also assists with merger control, compliance, dawn raids, and issues relating to unfair commercial practices and vertical agreements (particularly in relation to franchising networks). Andrea Cicala‘s practice includes assessing the legitimacy of agreements and commercial practices, and the detection of anticompetitive conduct. Giacinto Zampetti is an experienced senior associate.

Practice head(s):

Andrea Cicala

Other key lawyers:

Francesco Goisis; Giacinto Zampetti; Mirko Maggioni; Miriam Allena

Testimonials

‘Experience, professionalism, networking capabilities and full availability.’

‘A good team that is very client oriented.’

‘Andrea Cicala is able to manage complex investigations and works very well with multinational companies.’

Key clients

TikTok Technology

IMG Worldwide

IMG Media

Benetton Group

Benetton

McDonald’s Development Italy

Luisa Spagnoli

F&B Investment Holding

Daimler

Mercedes Benz Financial Services Italia

Mytaxi Italia

Work highlights

  • Assisting TikTok Technology with a probe launched into alleged unfair practices concerning the acquisition of virtual coins and gifts.
  • Assisting IMG Worldwide LLC and IMG Media before the Civil Court of Milan in a follow-on damages action filed by three football teams, following a decision by the Italian Competition Authority on an alleged anticompetitive horizontal agreement.
  • Assisted Mercedes Benz Financial Services Italia and Daimler with the appeal phase of a case before the Council of State/Administrative Supreme Court.

Eversheds Sutherland Associazione Professionale

Eversheds Sutherland Associazione Professionale‘s ‘efficient competition practice‘ regularly acts in cases before the Italian Competition Authority and Italy’s administrative courts, as well as private enforcement and antitrust damages litigation. It also advises on merger control notifications, antitrust compliance, and unfair commercial practices involving business-to-consumer relations. Practice head Alessandro Greco is ‘a fabulous partner to work with‘, and competition law associate Lorenzo Maniaci is a 2022 recruit from Legance - Avvocati Associati.

Practice head(s):

Alessandro Greco

Other key lawyers:

Lorenzo Maniaci

Testimonials

‘An efficient competition practice with good coverage of various industry sectors and countries, due to its international practice.’

‘Deep knowledge of the digital sector and a strong background in high-end competition matters.’

‘Alessandro Greco is a very good professional who is dedicated to his clients.’

‘Alessandro Greco is one of the few lawyers in Italy with deep knowledge of competition law’s impact on digital platforms and TMT businesses. Overall, his knowledge of this sector and deep knowledge of competition law make him the to-go lawyer for complex competition matters in digital markets.’

‘Alessandro Greco has a very pragmatic approach, is highly responsive, and pays significant attention to the client.’

‘Alessandro Greco is a fabulous partner to work with. He is approachable and makes time to ensure that clients understand local deviations and processes, and he is very knowledgeable about competition law.’

‘Alessandro Greco takes a considered approach in understanding how clients would like to manage a particular matter and accommodates their needs.’

‘Alessandro Greco is valued for his strong knowledge of e-commerce and competition matters; determination before institutional and official bodies; professionalism demonstrated; good communication at all times; agility; and efficiency.’

Key clients

Aspen Pharmacare

Xylem

Consorzio Manital

Manital

Newell Brands

Idealista

Burger King

SCS Concept

Corcym

Sebia

Kellogg’s

Boeing

Heidelberg Cement

Lego

Nomad Digital

Eaton

Work highlights

  • Assisted Sensus Italia, and its sole shareholder Sensus Metering System (Lux Co 3), in relation to a bid rigging case opened by the Italian Competition Authority in the water meter market.
  • Successfully assisted the Manital group with bid rigging-related litigation before the Council of State.
  • Assisted two subsidiaries of Newell Brands with standalone private litigation initiated by a distributor, following the client’s decision not to allow distributors to sell certain products through a global technology/retail company’s marketplace.

Gattai, Minoli, Partners

In addition to its notable energy and oil and gas sector expertise, the antitrust and consumer protection team at Gattai, Minoli, Partners has substantial experience in high-stakes merger and behavioural antitrust cases in the finance, telecoms, consumer goods, transportation and infrastructure sectors. Heading the group, Silvia D’Alberti is ‘an excellent competition law specialist‘, and ‘very smart‘ counsel Fabiana Campopiano advises on contentious and non-contentious EU and national competition law.

Practice head(s):

Silvia D’Alberti

Other key lawyers:

Fabiana Campopiano; Massimiliano Pizzonia

Testimonials

Great ability to simplify complex topics and very speedy to react – great knowledge of client matters.

The EU and competition law team is very well prepared and reliable.’

‘Very clear in its explanation of complex topics.’

‘Silvia D’Alberti is an excellent competition law specialist, and she is able to adapt to clients’ company culture and behaviour, in order to provide the best advice quickly. She is also excellent at establishing good personal relationships.’

‘Fabiana Campopiano has an exceptional ability to understand the specific aspects of several areas.’

‘All of them are extremely efficient, but Fabiana Campopiano is always willing to go the extra mile to achieve top results for the client. Billing is also very fair.’

‘Fabiana Campopiano is very smart and talented – always available, even on weekends.’

‘The lawyer that is appreciated for her preparation, support and reliability is Fabiana Campopiano.’

Key clients

U-Earth Biotech

Sky

Eni

Bancomat

Intermediate Capital Group

Investcorp

LeasePlan

Toyota Motor Corporation

Autostrade per l’Italia

Siemens Mobility

Iren Ambiente

Allsystem

Butangas

Nexi

Ariix

Newage

Becton Dickinson

Netflix

Snam

Breitling

Teamsystem

Accenture

Assutel

Gorillas

BFF Bank

7Pixel

Teamsystem

Snam

Hilti Italia

Work highlights

  • Acted for Toyota in litigation before the Council of State, which concerned the judicial review of an Administrative Court of First Instance judgment that annulled the Italian Competition Authority’s decision on an investigation commenced against captive banks and related automotive groups.
  • Representing Eni in an appeal before the Council of State of an Administrative Court of First Instance judgment, which confirmed an Italian Competition Authority decision ordering Eni to pay a fine for unfair advertising.
  • Represented Allsystem in an appeal before the Council of State of a judgment of the Administrative Regional Court of Lazio.

Gatti Pavesi Bianchi Ludovici

Gatti Pavesi Bianchi Ludovici houses specialists in concentrations, cartel and abuse of dominant position cases, and pre-merger notifications. The practice also assists with civil antitrust litigation at both Italian and EU level, state aid awards, antitrust audits, and compliance programmes. Antitrust expert Stefano Grassani heads up the group, which features key counsels Andrea Torazzi and Lorenzo Picciano. In January 2022, former Secretary General of the Italian Competition Authority Filippo Arena joined as partner.

Practice head(s):

Stefano Grassani

Other key lawyers:

Filippo Arena; Andrea Torazzi; Lorenzo Picciano; Antonio Campitiello

Testimonials

Antonio Campitiello is greatly supportive in assisting on matters and providing clarity on queries raised.

Key clients

SEA – Società per Azioni Esercizi Aeroportuali

Jacob Cohën

Alpitour

Sogaer – Società di Gestione Aeroporto di Cagliari

Neuberger Berman

Banco Popolare BPM

Telecom Italia

TIM

Banca Mediolanum

Yoox

Net-à-porter

Grandi Navi Veloci

Invitalia

Edizione

Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria

Able to leverage the support of a global network of offices, Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria‘s full-service antitrust, competition and European law practice is particularly focused on state aid, as well as the four freedoms concerning the movement of goods, persons, services and capital inside the EU. Other key areas include government investigations, cartel cases and merger filings. Edoardo Gambaro has ‘excellent knowledge of competition law‘, and Pietro Missanelli is an experienced senior associate.

Practice head(s):

Edoardo Gambaro

Other key lawyers:

Pietro Missanelli; Alberto Santa Maria

Testimonials

‘The team has extensive knowledge of EU and competition law. Compared to other law practices, it is the only firm in Italy that has deep experience in pure EU law (not only antitrust), which includes all aspects of the distribution of goods, state aid, and people and services.’

‘The team is highly efficient at delivering advice on time.’

‘The output of its research is never trivial, because the lawyers pay a lot of attention to checking all the relevant and up-to-date case law.’

‘Greenberg Traurig Santa Maria’s antitrust department has a unique profile, since it combines the experience of a classic boutique law firm with the advantages of an international US network.’ 

‘Edoardo Gambaro is appreciated for the fact that he is always fully engaged with the work, he participates in meetings, and writes memos and briefs with his team, rather than leaving the drafting or the calls to associates.’

‘Edoardo Gambaro has excellent knowledge of competition law, particularly state aid. Edoardo is also a very skilled litigator and has considerable experience in acting before the Italian courts and the EU Court of Justice.’

‘Edoardo Gambaro and Pietro Missanelli have always distinguished themselves through their presence, competence and willingness to investigate and resolve issues, both in Italy and abroad.’

Pietro Missanelli has very good knowledge of competition law and the functioning of EU institutions – he also has a strong commercial sense.’

Key clients

Federalberghi

Scuola Elementare Maria Montessori

PostePay

Nextalia

21 Investimenti SGR

Dorotheum

Gruppo Iper

Delcomar

Work highlights

  • Assisted Federalberghi, the association of Italian hotels, with several EU and competition law-related matters.
  • Successfully represented Scuola Elementare Maria Montessori (as the appellant) before the Court of Justice of the European Union in a state aid case concerning exemption from the municipal tax on real property, which was granted by Italy to non-commercial bodies.
  • Assisted PostePay with the merger control aspects of its agreement to acquire LIS Holding from International Game Technology.

Hogan Lovells International LLP

The Italian antitrust, competition and economic regulation practice at Hogan Lovells International LLP fields experts in merger control and notification work, cartel and abuse of dominant position cases, private antitrust enforcement actions, and follow-on administrative matters. It also advises on commercial agreements, unfair commercial practices, and antitrust compliance programmes. Sabrina Borocci has sector expertise in life sciences, healthcare, automotive, TMT, and energy and natural resources. Aurora Muselli is an experienced senior associate.

Practice head(s):

Sabrina Borocci

Other key lawyers:

Aurora Muselli

Key clients

GE Medical Systems Italia

GE Healthcare Italia

GE Holding

GE Medical Systems SCS

Volkswagen Bank

Unilever Italia Mkt Operations

Vodafone Italia

Prima Assicurazioni

Airbnb Ireland Unlimited Company

Corepla: National Consortium for the Collection, Recycling and Recovery of Plastic Packaging

CONAI

Enel Produzione

Work highlights

  • Assisted Enel Produzione with the acquisition of hydro plants, which involved extensive dialogue with the Italian Competition Authority.
  • Assisted Prima Assicurazioni with proceedings launched by the Italian Competition Authority against price comparators and insurance companies, in relation to the alleged exchange of sensitive information.
  • Provided antitrust assistance to Uber, in relation to an agreement with URI and Splyt.

Legance - Avvocati Associati

Legance - Avvocati Associati is sought out for its merger-related experience before the EU Commission and Italian Competition Authority. The practice also assists with cartel and abuse of dominance-related investigations, along with litigation surrounding unfair commercial practices and advertising. Vito Auricchio is ‘very talented‘, and counsel Guendalina Catti De Gasperi focuses on European and Italian competition law. Fellow counsel Jacopo Figus Diaz recently joined from Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton.

Practice head(s):

Vito Auricchio

Other key lawyers:

Guendalina Catti De Gasperi; Valerio Mosca; Jacopo Figus Diaz

Testimonials

‘Brilliant and always available. High standards of service both in antitrust and merger control.’

‘Excellent balance between technical and legal capabilities and pragmatism.’

‘Vito Auricchio is to be applauded for his remarkable skills – he is very talented.’

Key clients

Nexi

2i Rete Gas

Iliad

Penny Market (Rewe Group)

Huawei

Campari

Golden Goose

Auchan

H.I.G.

Parmalat/Lactalis

Volvo Trucks

Work highlights

  • Assisted Nexi with the filing in Italy, Germany, Austria and Poland of the merger with SIA.
  • Assisted Iliad Italia (as intervening party) in relation to proceedings before the Italian Competition Authority, which concern the potential anti-competitive effects of an agreement between TIM and DAZN for the distribution of DAZN’s content.
  • Assisted Nexi (as intervener) with an abuse of dominance investigation against Mastercard.

Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe

Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe‘s Rome-based EU and competition law practice routinely assists with major merger control matters, along with high-stakes competition law investigations and appeal proceedings (at both EU and national levels). Practice head Pietro Merlino, who has ‘undisputed leadership skills‘, advises both Italian and international clients on the entire spectrum of antitrust and consumer protection matters. Managing associate Marianna Meriani also assists with European and Italian competition law issues.

Practice head(s):

Pietro Merlino

Other key lawyers:

Marianna Meriani

Testimonials

‘The key ability of the Orrick team is its ability to understand the logic of its client’s business, and unlike in other firms, the client is always assigned the same team.’

‘Pietro Merlino has excellent interpersonal skills, as well as undisputed leadership skills that make him appreciated in all contexts, even by his counterparts.’

‘Pietro Merlino is always at the forefront, unlike in other firms where partners often delegate operational activities to colleagues.’

‘Pietro Merlino is a skilled, motivated and tough, yet fair, counterpart.’

‘Marianna Meriani makes herself available to the client, proving to be of extreme help in the management of even the most complex practices. Pietro Merlino and Marianna form a professionally perfect team.’

Key clients

Enel X

Kedrion

Sestant Internazionale

F Hoffmann–La Roche

ERP Italia

B2C Innovation

Cerba HealthCare

Splyt

Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane

TX Logistik

Thales

Work highlights

  • Assisted ERP Italia with its plan to induce the Italian Competition Authority to take action to tackle a complex exclusionary strategy put in place by Erion.
  • Advised Enel X on the merger control aspects of the creation of a joint venture with the Volkswagen group.
  • Assisted Kedrion (and its parent company Sestant Internazionale) with the global merger control aspects of a transaction whereby Permira and Sestant will acquire joint control over Kedrion and Bio Products Laboratory.

Osborne Clarke

Osborne Clarke‘s Italy practice is experienced in anti-competitive behaviour proceedings, such as investigations into cartels and abuses of dominant position. It also assists with private enforcement work, merger filings, and matters where competition law and IP issues overlap. In Rome, national and EU antitrust law specialist Enrico Fabrizi is ‘one of the best antitrust lawyers in Italy‘, while Valeria Veneziano and Angelo Molinaro are the senior associates to note.

Practice head(s):

Enrico Fabrizi

Other key lawyers:

Valeria Veneziano; Angelo Molinaro

Testimonials

‘A great team that is available and prepared.’

‘Highly available, professional and prepared.’

‘Excellent antitrust skills and great practical sense.’

‘Enrico Fabrizi is an exceptional professional with incomparable specialist knowledge in antitrust matters.’

‘Enrico Fabrizi is one of the best antitrust lawyers in Italy. His team is also at a high level.’

‘Enrico Fabrizi has deep experience in the area and always delivers the best advice to clients.’

‘Valeria Veneziano has enviable specialist knowledge in antitrust matters.’

‘Valeria Veneziano – clients can’t ask for anyone better.’

Key clients

APA – Associazione Produttori Audiovisivi

Arad

Autotorino S.p.A.

CNS – Consorzio Nazionale Servizi

ContextLogic (Wish)

Credem – Credito Emiliano

FAAC

Grendi Trasporti Marittimi

Nuovo Imaie

Ovdamatic

Reale Group

WaterTech

Work highlights

  • Assisted CNS – Consorzio Nazionale Servizi with its appeal against a decision on a cartel investigation that related to a large tender procedure.
  • Assisted Italiana Assicurazioni with proceedings brought over the alleged exchange of sensitive information, in relation to car insurance policies.
  • Assisted APA – Associazione Produttori Audiovisivi with an investigation into an alleged anti-competitive agreement between APA, SIAE and ANICA for the distribution of private copying levies.

Pedersoli Studio Legale

Pedersoli Studio Legale‘s ‘very good‘ competition department has enviable banking, financial and insurance sector expertise. Its competition law coverage includes merger control work, restrictive practices, state aid, and cartels and abuse of dominance cases. Group head Davide Cacchioli assists with a wide range of competition matters, and also advises on Consumer Code issues and unfair commercial practices. Alessandro Bardanzellu is an Italian and EU competition law specialist.

Practice head(s):

Davide Cacchioli

Other key lawyers:

Alessandro Bardanzellu

Testimonials

‘The antitrust team at Pedersoli is a very good one. Its lawyers have very sophisticated skills, are reliable, and work closely with the client. They also have very good knowledge of banking and financial institutions.’

‘It is a pleasure to work with Alessandro Bardanzellu. He has solid antitrust law knowledge, is always available, and is not at all reluctant to affirm his position vis-à-vis the client and the counterparty.’

Key clients

Sparkasse – Cassa di Risparmio di Bolzano

EXOR

F2i SGR

FinecoBank

Intesa Sanpaolo

Davide Campari – Milano

Infrastrutture Wireless Italiane – INWIT

Coöperatieve H2 Equity Partners

Guess Europe

Intesa Sanpaolo RBM Salute

Ondulati Nordest

Scatolificio Idealkart

Unicoop Firenze

PAI Partners

GEDI Gruppo Editoriale

Fideuram

Work highlights

  • Assisted Cassa di Risparmio di Bolzano – Sparkasse with the merger control issues concerning the acquisition of sole control over Banca di Cividale – Benefit Corporation.
  • Assisted EXOR with the merger control and Italian foreign investment control aspects of the acquisition of a controlling interest in Lifenet.
  • Assisted F2i SGR with the antitrust and Italian foreign investment control aspects of the acquisition by F2i of sole control over the Althea group.

Trevisan & Cuonzo

Trevisan & Cuonzo‘s competition team is experienced in antitrust proceedings and private enforcement actions. Clients also benefit from the firm’s renowned IP credentials. Antitrust specialist and Rome office head Vittorio Cerulli Irelli leads the competition law team, while Luca Trevisan heads the firm’s EU law practice. At of counsel level, Mario Libertini is a veteran EU and Italian competition law specialist, and Virginia Bellucci and Roberta Stasi are experienced counsels.

Practice head(s):

Luca Trevisan; Vittorio Cerulli Irelli

Other key lawyers:

Mario Libertini; Virginia Bellucci; Roberta Stasi

Key clients

Industria Chimica Emiliana

Xiaomi

Supermatic

Serim

OPPO Guangdong Mobile Communications Co

Sony Mobile

Work highlights

  • Represented Xiaomi and OPPO Guangdong Mobile Communications Co in complex, multi-jurisdictional patent and competition law litigation.
  • Represented Industria Chimica Emiliana before the Italian Antitrust Authority, in relation to an alleged unilateral refusal to deal.
  • Representing Sony Mobile (before the Administrative Court) in a pending case against a decree issued by the Ministry of Culture.

3D Legal

3D Legal‘s EU and Italian antitrust and regulatory practice regularly advises on cartel and abuse of dominance cases and mergers, along with unfair commercial practices, state aid, and antitrust and anti-bribery compliance programmes. It also has sector expertise in energy, telecoms and transport. Practice head Gennaro d’Andria is is ‘a top-notch competition lawyer‘.

Practice head(s):

Gennaro d’Andria

Testimonials

Great understanding of the industry, and able to get straight to the problem and provide clear solutions through concise communication.

Extremely reactive responses and tailored approach – attention to ESG issues is another plus of the firm.

Gennaro d’Andria is a top-notch competition lawyer, who is very quick to understand the needs of clients, and extremely pleasant in his approach and relationship with clients.

Gennaro d’Andria is excellent – very responsive, clear, precise and efficient. He does exactly what he says and keeps pricing transparent.

Ashurst

Ashurst's competition team routinely acts in proceedings before the European Commission and the Italian Competition Authority. It also appears before national and EU courts in merger control, cartel and abuse of dominance cases. Gabriele Accardo is a key counsel, while Denis Fosselard heads the Italian competition and EU law practice from Brussels.

Practice head(s):

Denis Fosselard

Other key lawyers:

Gabriele Accardo; Giulia Carnazza

Key clients

Eni

Ferriera Valsabbia

Babcock International

Terna

Althea Group

Costa Crociere

Hertz

Itochu

eToro

Iliad

Ardian

Xiaomi

Work highlights

  • Acted for Alfa Acciai, Ferriera Valsabbia and Valsabbia Investimenti in an appeal of a third readopted decision of the European Commission.
  • Acted for Iliad in an appeal before the General Court of a decision of the European Commission that cleared (with commitments) the joint venture between Vodafone Italia and TIM (Inwit).
  • Advised Babcock International on the merger control aspects of the sale of its Italian and Spanish aerial emergency services businesses.

De Berti Jacchia Franchini Forlani

The key figures within De Berti Jacchia Franchini Forlani‘s EU and competition team are Roberto A Jacchia, whose areas of expertise include EU, pharmaceutical and regulatory law; Antonella Terranova, whose practice includes merger filings, and defence-side cartel and abuse of dominance cases; and EU and competition law expert Fabio Ferraro.

Practice head(s):

Roberto A Jacchia; Antonella Terranova; Fabio Ferraro

Other key lawyers:

Alice Viscomi

Testimonials

‘Great professionalism and competence, as well as great availability.’

‘A boutique law firm that is easily accessible and much easier to communicate with than larger law firms.’

‘Approachable, available, and willing to go the extra mile.’

Key clients

CIAL

Deltafina

Renault Trucks

Rizzani de Eccher

SKS 365

Stanley International Betting

Universal Tobacco Corp

Urban Science

Volvo Trucks

Work highlights

  • Advised Universal Tobacco on its Italian operations and purchasing policies with tobacco leaf growers, in relation to vertical practices and agreements.
  • Advised Amoruso on optimising the range of services offered to ocean cargo carriers.
  • Advised COSCO China Open Shipping Transportation and Logistics on its strategy to counter the acquisition by a competitor of Genoa harbour’s third operator.

Dentons

Led by competition specialist Michele CarpagnanoDentons‘ Italy practice advises on Italian and EU competition matters, consumer law, state aid and merger control. It also assists with administrative proceedings before the Italian Competition Authority and administrative courts, as well as before the General Court and the European Court of Justice.

Practice head(s):

Michele Carpagnano

Other key lawyers:

Giulia Giordano

Testimonials

‘Strong involvement of the partner and senior associates, which always renders the legal advice very sophisticated.’

‘The approach of the team is very business oriented – the team understands the clients’ needs.’

‘Extremely competent as well as always helpful.’

‘The attention paid to detail is very high.’

‘Always manages to meet even stringent timelines.’

‘Michele Carpagnano’s preparation and knowledge of several industries and their antitrust-related risks is just impressive. Whenever clients need him, he is always there to deliver.’

Key clients

Volkswagen

Artoni Group

SRH

Volotea

Vitrolife AB

International Fruit Genetics

Motorola Solutions

L’Oréal

Work highlights

  • Assisted Volkswagen with the antitrust and merger control law aspects of a phase II investigation initiated by the Italian Competition Authority, in relation to a joint venture formed with Enel X.
  • Assisted Artoni and SRH with the merger control proceedings concerning the acquisition of 51% of Press-Di Distribuzione Stampa e Multimedia.
  • Assisted Motorola Solutions with the foreign direct investment notification aspects of the acquisition of all of Videotec’s share capital.

Linklaters

Advising international clients on complex competition issues, Linklaters‘ antitrust and foreign investment team covers both transactional and behavioural issues. It is also experienced in competition litigation and matters relating to unfair commercial practices. Lucio D’Amario‘s practice includes anti-competitive agreements, sensitive information exchanges, abuses of dominant position, and merger control work.

Practice head(s):

Lucio D’Amario

Other key lawyers:

Matteo Farneti; Giorgio Gian Battista Valoti; Gaia Bozzolan; Jacopo Cislaghi

Key clients

Quixa Assicurazioni

Apple Distribution International

FCE Bank

Ford Motor Company

Novartis

Novartis Farma

Armonia SGR

DEA Capital Alternative Funds SGR

I Squared Capital

Bybrook Capital

Aperam

Gilde Buy-Out Partners (now Rivean Capital)

Stada Arzneimittel

McKesson Corporation

Magnetar Financial (UK)

Pavia e Ansaldo

Pavia e Ansaldo‘s Rome-based competition team is led by telecoms sector specialist Filippo Fioretti, whose track record includes representing major Italian and multinational companies in litigation. Fioretti is supported by recently promoted senior associate and antitrust expert Maria Rosaria Raspanti, along with of counsels Giulio Brunelli and Fulvio Maria Palombino.

Practice head(s):

Filippo Fioretti

Other key lawyers:

Maria Rosaria Raspanti; Giulio Brunelli; Fulvio Maria Palombino; Nicolò Cagnato

Key clients

Barclays Bank

Skytanking

Wolters Kluwer Italia

Colt Technology

Dea Capital Alternative Funds SGR

KAI

Mercury

Snaitech

Work highlights

  • Assisted Standard & Poor with the establishment and implementation of an antitrust compliance programme.
  • Successfully acted for two Italian taxi companies (Taxiblu 4040 and Autoradiotassi 8585) in a major appeal before the Lazio Regional Administrative Tribunal.
  • Advised several telecoms companies on regulatory and legal issues, which related to the provision of fixed and mobile voice, data and internet services.

Portolano Cavallo

The Milan-based EU and competition law practice at Portolano Cavallo is particularly active in regulated sectors, such as TMT, pharmaceuticals, life sciences, fashion, luxury goods, global brands and automotive. Highly experienced EU and competition law practitioner Irene Picciano is a recently elevated partner, while counsel Enzo Marasà is ‘an outstanding professional‘.

Practice head(s):

Enzo Marasà; Irene Picciano

Testimonials

‘The competition practice has brilliant knowledge and extensive experience in handling distribution-related cases.’

‘Clients are delighted to work with Portolano Cavallo; in addition to being excellent professionals, the practice’s members have very pleasant personalities, which helps to minimise the stress of legal disputes.’

‘Portolano Cavallo is very well known for being an innovative and dynamic law firm.’

‘Clients recommend Irene Picciano and her team for their competence in the fields of selective distribution systems and antitrust matters.’

‘Irene Picciano’s broad experience and deep expertise in EU and competition law are widely appreciated. She is an excellent professional.’

‘Irene Picciano is an exceptionally gifted lawyer, with top-notch skills and experience in the fields of competition law and regulation. She’s an excellent communicator too.’

‘Enzo Marasà is a business-minded lawyer, which is highly appreciated.’

‘Enzo Marasà is an outstanding professional who is attentive to clients, and focused on both results and the smoothness of the service provided – highly recommended.’

Simmons & Simmons

The recent workload of Simmons & Simmons‘ Milan-based antitrust group includes complex merger control issues, abuse of dominant position proceedings, antitrust litigation, compliance training, and abuse of economic dependence matters. Of counsel Riccardo Pennisi‘s track record includes acting for Italian and international clients in proceedings before the Italian Competition Authority.

Practice head(s):

Riccardo Pennisi

Other key lawyers:

Ferdinando Nicotra; Davide Coppola

Testimonials

‘Excellent ability to liaise with company management, so as to explain potential issues and outline strategies.’

‘Riccardo Pennisi has a great ability to understand business scenarios, and give exhaustive, comprehensive and clear advice (with reference to the applicable laws, doctrine and case law).’

‘Riccardo Pennisi has a solid transactional and academic background, and his soft skills are a plus.’

Key clients

A Menarini Industrie Farmaceutiche Riunite

CSL Behring

Datrix

Dompe’ Farmaceutici

Dr Schaer

EG Italia

Fondo Italiano di Investimento

Fruchte Holdings

Gecofin

Giochi Preziosi

Gruppo Florence

Wise Equity SGR

Wise Capital

21 Invest

Work highlights

  • Assisted Fruchte Holdings with the antitrust aspects of the sale of a majority stake in Unifrutti Group to ADQ.
  • Assisted Fondo Italiano d’Investimento (through Fondo Italiano Consolidamento e Crescita – FICC) with obtaining clearance from the Italian Competition Authority for the acquisition of joint control over Mecaer Aviation Group.
  • Advised Gruppo Florence on the antitrust aspects of the acquisition of Luciano Barbetta and Manifatture Moda Sartoriale, including obtaining clearance from the Italian Competition Authority.

Tonucci & Partners

The Rome-based competition and EU practice at Tonucci & Partners covers merger control work, cartel and abuse of dominance investigations, and commercial agreements. It also advises on state aid issues, major antitrust litigation, compliance programmes, and unfair business practices. The practice is co-led by Giorgio Alù Saffi and Giovanni Pallone, who ‘provides exhaustive support‘.

Practice head(s):

Giorgio Alù Saffi; Giovanni Pallone

Testimonials

‘This firm has exceptional expertise, as well as impressive speed when giving feedback to each and every question.’

‘Impressive ability to find solutions to complex problems.’

‘Exceeds all expectations – simply unsurpassable in its mix of soft skills and professional qualities.’

Key clients

Advolis Orfis

Bene Assicurazioni

Infront Sports & Media

Navionics

Heineken Italia

Partesa

AssoCSP

Interactive3G

Europcar Italia

Goldcar Italy

Fincantieri

Work highlights

  • Appointed (jointly with Advolis) as monitoring trustee by the EU Commission, in order to oversee the implementation of divestments in Italy, Netherlands and Belgium.
  • Assisted Bene Assicurazioni with an investigation commenced by the Italian Competition Authority, which aimed to verify the existence of the alleged anticompetitive exchange of information between several insurance players and online price comparison providers.
  • Successfully assisted Goldcar with its appeal before the Council of State against a fine imposed by the Italian Competition Authority for breach of consumer protection law.

Bird & Bird

The competition and EU law team at Bird & Bird leverages the expertise of its IP, dispute resolution, and regulatory and administrative law colleagues. Its industry expertise covers pharmaceuticals, technology, communications, life sciences and luxury goods. Federico Marini-Balestra‘s practice ranges from antitrust and regulatory proceedings to administrative and commercial litigation.

Practice head(s):

Federico Marini-Balestra

Other key lawyers:

Simone Cadeddu; Lucia Antonazzi

Testimonials

‘Simplicity in its approach and committed to clients.’

‘Federico Marini-Balestra is very clever and client oriented.’

Key clients

Telecom Italia

BMW Group

Zed Entertainment’s World

Huawei

Logista

Leroy Merlin Italia

Marcolin

Perform Investment (DAZN)

GAXA

Dompé Farmaceutici

Degiro

Generali

John Bean Technologies

Consorzio Ecopolietilene

Solgar-Hino

BusItalia

Zoom Communications

Mondo Convenienza

Work highlights

  • Assisted Telecom Italia with a complex Article 102 TFEU case involving investments in new fibre networks.
  • Assisted BusItalia, the former concessionaire for road public transportation in Tuscany, with an appeal against an Article 102 TFEU fine for allegedly slowing down the transition to the new concessionaire.
  • Assisted Consorzio Ecopolietilene with an Article 102 TFEU investigation against Polieco for an alleged abuse of dominant position.

Macchi di Cellere Gangemi

Macchi di Cellere Gangemi focuses on merger control, antitrust litigation, and competition-related compliance and advisory work. Other key areas are public procurement, state aid, and consumer law investigations and litigation. Of counsel Salvatore Lamarca assists with antitrust proceedings, EU cartel investigations, abuse of dominance cases, merger filings, and unfair commercial practices.

Practice head(s):

Salvatore Lamarca

Testimonials

‘The team has a very straightforward approach, delivering objective answers to clients’ questions.’

‘First-class team. Salvatore Lamarca is an excellent lawyer and a very pleasant person to work with.’

Key clients

Airbus Helicopters Italia

IBM Italia

Kentucky Fried Chicken

RATP (Régie Autonome Transports Parisiens)

Ticketmaster – Live Nation

Toppazzini

Curtiriso

Associazione Risiere Italiane

Nivalion

Work highlights

  • Successfully acted for Ticketmaster in antitrust litigation.
  • Represented RATP in complex litigation, which concerned an alleged violation of the EU regulatory framework and competition legislation.

Nunziante Magrone

Nunziante Magrone‘s EU and competition law team regularly acts in European Commission proceedings. It also assists with claims involving damages, cartels and abuse of dominance matters. Additional areas of expertise include competitors’ cooperation agreements, antitrust compliance programmes, vertical agreements, and merger control notifications. Simone Gambuto is ‘a very skilled antitrust lawyer‘.

Practice head(s):

Simone Gambuto

Testimonials

‘Clients are very happy with the performance of the team.’

‘Always provides an on-time and professional service – invoices are also very reasonable.’

An inquisitive and innovative approach that is really useful.

‘The antitrust and litigation teams are both really proactive and collaborative.’

‘Excellent competence and preparation in the field of competition law.’

‘Simone Gambuto is collaborative, proactive, supportive, and really well prepared. He puts a lot of effort into what he does and is a passionate lawyer.’

‘Simone Gambuto should be recommended to all clients.’

‘Simone Gambuto is a very skilled antitrust lawyer. He knows how to build compliance programmes very well – business focused, timely and competent.’

Key clients

Performance in Lighting

Philip Morris

General Motors

Wizz Air

ASUS

SNCF-Voyages

Work highlights

  • Represented a multinational beverage company in a follow-on antitrust damages action against cartelists in Milan.
  • Acted for a low-cost carrier in an Italian Competition Authority investigation, which led to a successful closing with commitments for seating policy and data sharing.
  • Assisted a large railway company with its successful recovery of excessive tariffs.