Firms To Watch: EU and competition

Goodwin launched a London competition team in March 2022 led by Sarah Jordan, who joined from Kirkland & Ellis International LLP. She has been joined by a number of key hires including Eram Khan from Linklaters LLP and counsel Charlotte Brunsdon from Ropes & Gray.
Led by Aurora Luoma and Bill BatchelorSkadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom (UK) LLP continues to grow its presence in the London competition market. With a litany of blue-chip clients on its books, the team is well-versed in the full gamut of competition law matters.

EU and competition in London

Clifford Chance LLP

Well-regarded for its ability to offer clients ‘creative’ and ‘balanced legal solutions’, Clifford Chance LLP’s competition group possesses the capabilities to advise on the full gamut of merger control filings and antitrust investigations. The team is particularly strong in the tech, fintech and pharma sectors and is regularly engaged by a number of household names including Amazon, Spotify and Epic Games. In recent months, the firm’s work for Amazon garnered prestigious recognition, earning them both ‘Matter of the Year’ and ‘Behavioural Matter of the Year’ for Europe at the Global Competition Review Awards. Leading the practice is Greg Olsen, who holds an excellent market reputation for his proficiency in both behavioural and merger control matters. He also serves as antitrust counsel to the Bank of England and European Central Bank Working Groups. Assisting Olsen is Alex Nourry, who covers all aspects of EU and UK competition law, advising on merger and foreign investment controls, cartels and market investigations. The ‘extremely talented and bright’ Nelson Jung is noted for his expertise in the technology, pharmaceutical and retail sectors.

Practice head(s):

Greg Olsen


Other key lawyers:

Nelson Jung; Alex Nourry; Samantha Ward; Sue Hinchliffe; Luke Tolaini; Matthew Scully; Jennifer Storey; Stravroula Vryna; Aleksander Tombinski; Richard Blewett; Amy Ryan


Testimonials

‘They are our go-to firm for day-to-day competition law advice.’

‘The work they are performing is extremely complex. The European Commission’s investigations are the most complex cases I’ve managed and the most complex case of the last few years worldwide. To deliver on their work they not only have to be excellent layers but also be able to understand complex businesses and processes.’

‘They are not only brilliant lawyers, but more importantly know our business very well and go beyond the typical OC advisory work. We consider them our partners. It is very difficult to find lawyers with these qualities.’

‘Nelson Jung is an extremely talented and bright partner. He knows our business in depth and also adjusted to our business needs. He is excellent at communicating with the business which makes him an extremely helpful and reliable partner to our in-house team.’

‘Aleksander Tombinski is the counsel in charge of our main case and also is deeply involved in our EC Stated Aid case. He is practical, thorough and always available.’

‘Amy Ryan is the best associate I’ve worked with. She is thorough and technically excellent. I can rely on her to drive very complex high-profile matters and know she won’t let me down, no matter what. An associate to watch.’

‘Team of outstanding legal professionals, focused on providing the best and truly reliable legal support, with creative, but still balanced, legal solutions. They take time to understand the business and corporate culture, and approach legal work to the individual specificity of their client.’

‘Richard Blewett and Sue Hinchliffe are two outstanding professionals that I highly recommend to anyone seeking Antitrust/Competition law advice. Richard is extremely knowledgeable, with a shrewd mind for business and with outstanding communication skills. Sue is an outstanding professional, with deep knowledge of her area of expertise, seeking creative though reliable and balanced solutions.’

Key clients

Amazon


Spotify


Epic Games


Mondelez International


Pfizer


Mastercard


Cellnex Telecoms


Inmarsat


Work highlights


  • Advising Amazon in relation to two active European Commission investigations regarding Amazon’s marketplace, as well as other Member State investigations.
  • Advising Mondelez International on the EU Commission’s ongoing major investigation into suspected restrictions of cross-border trade in violation of Articles 101 and/or 102 TFEU.
  • Advising Delivery Hero in the context of the European Commission’s unannounced inspection at Delivery Hero’s offices in July 2022.

Linklaters LLP

Linklaters LLP’s ‘world-class’ and ‘extremely knowledgable’ competition group combines market leading expertise with pragmatic and commercial advice, possessing capabilities across the full scope of transactional, regulatory and contentious antitrust matters. The firm is highly sought after by some of the world’s largest companies for merger control filings, enjoying recent success handling Phase II investigations. The team earns further praise for the continued growth of the tech practice, winning Sony as a new client for market investigations and litigation work. The ‘knowledgable’ and ‘pragmatic’ Natura Gracia, a dual-qualified (English and Spanish) practitioner, is the London practice head, and advises on a wide range of competition matters, specialising in state aid and UK subsidies and regulated sectors. Anna Mitchell excels in complex UK and EU merger control, multi-jurisdictional deals and investigations. Co-head of the UK technology sector team Verity Egerton-Doyle has experience across advisory, investigatory and transactional aspects of competition law in the EU and UK and is noted for her experience with the CMA. The firm hired Bruce Kilpatrick from Addleshaw Goddard in autumn 2023. Former practice co-chair Nicole Kar  left the firm to join Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP in December 2023.

Practice head(s):

Natura Gracia


Other key lawyers:

Jonathan Ford; Rachel Hetherington; Anna Mitchell; Helen Crossley; Verity Egerton-Doyle; Sima Ostrovsky; Neha Zamvar


Testimonials

‘Deep UK and EU experience. Range of PQE across team and able to resource. Thought leadership. Reliable. Hugely customer-focused. Highly responsive. Highly collaborative. World class. Down to earth.’

‘Natura Gracia, Anna Mitchell: easy to work with and you know you can trust their views. Bruce Kilpatrick – a very capable and technically brilliant individual.’

‘The Linklater’s team is extremely knowledgeable. They collaborate with local counsels outside of their jurisdictions and synthesize information. The group is very diverse (i.e., race and gender).’

‘The responsiveness of the group is different than competitors. The stand-out partners and associates are Anna Mitchell, and Neha Zamvar  They also work very well with other members of the company, whether it is to explain various filings or to receive information.’

‘Very approachable partners that I’ve worked with; knowledgeable and very strong case track record. Breadth of sector expertise.’

‘The team knows our sector very well, the advice is high quality, tailored to our needs and we get fantastic service.’

‘Natura Gracia is great – really knowledgeable, down to earth and pragmatic. She isn’t afraid to tell it like it is, and I trust her judgment.’

‘The team are very knowledgeable about their area of expertise, they understand the regulator and the approach that a CMA appeal may take and advise accordingly.’

Key clients

Viasat Inc


BGL Group Limited


National Grid


Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.


Teneo Restructuring Limited


Quantile Group Limited


Sony Music Entertainment/Sony Music Publishing


JD Sports Fashion PLC (CMA Investigation)


Accord Healthcare, Hg Capital, Intas Pharmaceuticals


Brookfield Super-Core Infrastructure Partners (Brookfield) and Ontario Teachers Pension Plan (OTPP)


Mitie plc


Anglo American


Thames Water


Anglian Water


Glencore


Novartis


Nestlé


UK Government


Work highlights


  • Advised Viasat, Inc. (“Viasat”), a US based global communications and satellite company, on the CMA merger control process for its acquisition of Inmarsat Group Holdings (“Inmarsat”), a UK based provider of global mobile satellite communications services.
  • Acted for BGL Group Limited/Comparethemarket.com in relation to its successful appeal of the CMA’s 19 November 2020 decision relating to BGL’s historic use of wide most-favoured nation clauses to the Competition Appeal Tribunal.
  • Acted for Quantile Group Limited and its subsidiaries (Quantile) on the sale of the Quantile group to London Stock Exchange Group plc (LSEG).

Slaughter and May

The competition group at Slaughter and May is the premier choice for some of the world’s biggest companies, which span an exhaustive list of industries. Well-regarded for its ability to marry a ‘great attention to detail’ with a ‘pragmatic, smart’ approach, the team regularly achieve strategically and commercially successful results, with a particular strength in managing complex multi-jurisdictional matters. The team is jointly chaired by Bertrand Louveaux, a ‘master of his craft’, and Claire Jeffs. A mix of blue-chip manufacturers, tech companies and financial services providers turn to Louveaux for his capabilities on transactional matters and experience before regulatory authorities. Jeffs works on a number of high-profile merger cases before the UK and EU authorities and is noted for her expertise on cartel and behavioural matters. Other notable individuals include Philippe Chappatte, who is highly regarded for his experience in market and antitrust investigations, and Isabel Taylor who is noted for her expertise in state aid and subsidy control. Senior counsel Tina Zhuo has been praised for her ‘excellent analytical abilities’. 

Practice head(s):

Bertrand Louveaux; Claire Jeffs


Other key lawyers:

Philippe Chappatte; Isabel Taylor; Lisa Wright; William Turtle; Tina Zhuo; Stephen Heagney; Lorna Nsoatabe; Jonathan Slade; Alex Bulfin


Testimonials

‘We work with Clare Jeff and Jonathan Slade. Claire is a top lawyer capable of delivering the right strategic advice at the right moment. Jonny is a strong antitrust lawyer eager to give the best advice to clients.’

‘Their technical and historical understanding of the ad tech sector is unrivalled, which is key in navigating this very complex area.’

‘Tina Zhuo is exceptional in her ability to quickly understand very technical and complex issues. She is quick, efficient, to the point, and has excellent analytical abilities.’

‘In-depth knowledge of the regulatory systems and great attention to detail.’

‘Bert Louveaux is a master of his craft.’

‘Excellent knowledge of competition law and able to provide high-quality, commercial advice on sensitive matters. Partners are available and responsive but also willing to staff matters appropriately with high-quality associates to help clients with managing budget and ensuring work is done at the correct level.’

‘Bertrand Louveaux has excellent knowledge of both competition law and economic aspects of the subject matter. Jonathan Slade is an excellent lawyer with commercially-focused advice and is generally a pleasure to work with. Alex Bulfin is an extremely capable associate who can handle complex matters and deal expertly with senior partners on the other side.’

‘Maybe one of the best teams I’ve ever hired. Pragmatic, smart, reactive, their legal analysis were always perfect. It was a real pleasure to work with them.’

Key clients

Barratt Developments


Booking Holdings


Bouygues


Coca-Cola Europacific Partners


FNZ


Google


Illumina


Independent Vetcare Limited


ITV


Korean Air


Meggitt


Meta (formerly Facebook)


Nucleus


Richemont (Compagnie Financière de Richemont)


Schneider Electric


Suez


Ultra Electronics


UK Government


Vodafone


Warner Music


Work highlights


  • Advising Google in relation to various competition investigations in Europe and globally. These include the EC AdSense investigation appeal, the EC and CMA investigations into the online advertising technology sector; the CMA and EC investigations into open bidding, as well as investigations in Japan, Australia, South Africa and India.
  • Advising Warner Music Group, a global music company, in relation to the UK Competition and Markets Authority’s market study into music and streaming services. In its final market study report the CMA decided not to make a market investigation reference.
  • Lead global counsel advising Booking Holdings, a provider of online travel and related services, on the EU and UK competition law aspects of its proposed acquisition of global flight online travel agency Etraveli. We are also coordinating filings in other jurisdictions globally, including the US, Australia, and Ukraine.

Allen & Overy LLP

Allen & Overy LLP’s ‘brilliant’ competition law team possesses the skills and knowledge necessary to handle a wide range of prominent competition and antitrust matters across various industries. Renowned in the financial services sector, the firm is highly sought after by major UK and international banks for advice on mergers and cartel investigations. Head of the London antitrust group Philip Mansfield advises companies before EU, UK and international competition authorities and is well-regarded for his merger, cartel and behavioural experience. Assisting Mansfield is an impressive group of partners, including Dominic Long, who splits his time between the London and Brussels offices and specialises in complex cross-border merger clearances and cartel investigations, with a particular emphasis on the TMT, energy, and healthcare sectors. Seasoned EU antitrust practitioner Kristina Nordlander has specific expertise in the tech and life sciences sectors. Thomas Masterman has acted on some of the most high profile M&A matters, and a recent highlight includes advising Recticel on the CMA Phase II review. Competition law veteran Mark Friend has retired.

Practice head(s):

Philip Mansfield


Other key lawyers:

Dominic Long; Kristina Nordlander; Thomas Masterman; Jonathan Hitchin; Andrew Fincham; Christopher Best; Imogen Carr; David Weaver; Jessica Bowring


Testimonials

‘Brilliant competition law thinkers who understand the market and dare to take a bold, innovative and economic-sensible approach when analyzing competitiveness and risk.’

‘Philip Mansfield has an amazing ability to go to the core of the competitive query, brainstorm and intuitively advise on the spot in a way that rationalizes and clarifies the inhouse legal thinking and analysis.’

‘You go to Philip when you need a quick and brilliant thinker who dares to take an innovative approach for competitive analysis and an assessment of risk and mitigation that is straight, on-point and sensible.’

Work highlights


  • Acted for NortonLifeLock on its USD8 billion acquisition of FTSE 100 cybersecurity developer Avast.
  • Acted for Maersk Drilling in relation to its merger with Noble Corporation. The deal was cleared by regulators in Brazil, Norway, Angola and the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.
  • Advising Recticel on the merger control aspects of the (unsolicited) voluntary takeover bid by Greiner AG on the securities of Recticel and the sale of the engineered foam division to Carpenter Co.

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP is lauded as the premier choice for some of the world’s leading global corporations, assisting clients on the full scope of competition and antitrust matters. Esteemed as trusted advisors to industry giants such as Google, Virgin Atlantic and Meta, the team showcases a specialisation in merger control work, investigations and state aid matters. Practice head Stephen Wisking has been involved in a significant number of competition and regulatory cases at EU and UK level. Susan Black is an accomplished antitrust practitioner and offers expertise across a spectrum of industries including pharmaceuticals, consumer products and financial services. Specialising in litigation and cartel cases, Kim Dietzel is a standout figure in the team, as is Suzy Campbell, who has been involved in some of the firm’s key work this year.

Practice head(s):

Stephen Wisking


Other key lawyers:

Veronica Roberts; Susan Black; Kim Dietzel; André Pretorius; Tim Briggs; Natalia Rodriguez


Work highlights


  • Acted for Meta in respect of an application for a Collective Proceedings Order in the UK Competition Appeal Tribunal brought by Proposed Class Representative (PCR) Dr Liza Lovdahl Gormsen on behalf of an alleged class of c. 45 million Facebook users, seeking approx. £3bn in aggregate damages.
  • Advised OneWeb, a low earth orbit (LEO) broadband satellite communications company, on the merger control, FDI and regulatory aspects of its proposed combination with Eutelsat Communications, a listed French satellite and telecommunications company, to create one of the world’s largest satellite operators.
  • Advised Capital & Counties plc on competition aspects of its £3.5 billion all share merger with Shaftesbury Plc including securing unconditional phase 1 merger clearance from the CMA.

Hogan Lovells International LLP

Fielding a strong team that is highly regarded for its ability to cover the full scope of merger control, antitrust investigations and consumer law matters, Hogan Lovells International LLP is praised by clients for providing ‘commercially pragmatic’ advice. The team is consistently engaged by some of the largest multinational companies, supporting such clients on both a domestic and international scale. The practice is spearheaded by Christopher Hutton, who is highly regarded for his financial services sector experience, advising international banks on the full range of competition law matters. The ‘astute, calm and exceptionally knowledgeable’ Angus Coulter is head of the firm’s global telecoms sector practice. Alice Wallace-Wright was promoted to partner in January 2023. Veteran practitioner Susan Bright has left the firm.

Practice head(s):

Christopher Hutton


Other key lawyers:

Suyong Kim; Angus Coulter; Alice Wallace-Wright; Christopher Peacock; John Embleton; Juliette Parkinson; Nicolas Heaton


Testimonials

‘Strong team of lawyers with good experience in the practice area.’

‘Alice Wallace Wright is knowledgeable and client-friendly.’

‘The competition team we use at Hogan Lovells, led by Angus Coulter, is exceptional. They are commercially pragmatic, very available and the quality of advice they provide is great.’

‘Angus Coulter (Partner) – commercially pragmatic and astute, calm and exceptionally knowledgeable.’

‘Alice Wallace Wright (Partner) – highly knowledgeable and commercially astute.’

‘Juliette Parkinson (Associate) – extremely helpful and knowledgeable.’

‘Terrific team. Real strength in depth from partner level through to associates. A delight to work with, which is always really important in heavy duty litigation.’

‘Nick Heaton is undoubtedly a star of the competition profession. He is someone you definitely want on your side in a competition dispute involving complex issues of economics. His mastery of economics is unparalleled.’

Key clients

Shaftesbury PLC


Clipper Logistics


Ofgem


Vodafone


Kingfisher/B&Q


Mars


Work highlights


  • Advising Shaftesbury PLC on its transformative merger with Capco to create the leading Central London property REIT.

Ashurst

Ashurst boasts a robust competition team, enriched with extensive expertise in the field and reinforced by an in-house team of accomplished economists. The firm provides assistance across the full suite of competition and regulatory issues, regularly advising on significant mergers and cartel investigations. Head of the London Antitrust team Duncan Liddell maintains a busy practice, acting on a range of high-profile contentious and non-contentious competition matters across the EU and UK in the last year. Euan Burrows and Nigel Parr respectively head Ashurst’s EMEA and Global practices. Regularly advising clients across a myriad of industries on merger control and FDI clearances, Steven Vaz is a standout figure in the team. The team has been bolstered by the arrival of Anna Morfey who joined from HFW.

Practice head(s):

Duncan Liddell


Other key lawyers:

Nigel Parr; Euan Burrows; Neil Cunnighame; Anna Morfey; Steven Vaz; Edward McNeill; Danica Barley; Christopher Eberhardt; Laura Carter


Key clients

Ryder Ltd


IHS Markit


Intel


Babcock International Group


Valero


Bank of America


National Express


Clinigen Group


Next Fifteen Communications plc


Equitix


Application Developers Alliance


JX Nippon Oil & Gas Exploration Corporation


Wm Morrison Supermarkets Limited (“Morrisons”)


Circle Health


Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC)


Brookfield


Work highlights


  • Represented Ryder Limited (Ryder), the UK subsidiary Ryder System Inc. – a Fortune 500 company and global leader in truck leasing and rental services – in the largest individual follow-on damages claim before the English courts arising from the European Commission’s decisions in the Trucks Cartel.
  • Acted for IHS Markit in connection with its merger with S&P Global (aggregate value $148bn), which was announced on 30 November 2020. Advised in relation to merger clearance processes before the European Commission (EC) and the UK Competition & Markets Authority (CMA), together with the application of the UK National Security and Investment Act.
  • Advised Clinigen Group Plc (“Clinigen”) on its £2 billion takeover by Triley Bidco Limited, a newly-incorporated company indirectly owned by funds indirectly or directly managed by Triton Investment Management Limited (“Triton”).

Baker McKenzie

Baker McKenzie fields an ‘excellent’ competition group, praised by clients for providing ‘practical advice’. The firm, known for its strong global presence and serves a diverse roster of clients, comprising multinational companies spanning industries such as energy, manufacturing, retail and healthcare. At the helm sits the ‘excellent’ Samantha Mobley, who is an experienced merger control specialist, advising clients across a range of industries. Keith Jones is noted for his strategic advice, particularly on international transactions, contentious and regulatory matters. Luis Alfonso Gómez, a ‘top choice’ for many clients, draws equal praise for his string of successes before the CMA. James Robinson is recommended for his expertise in antitrust investigations, assisting clients across a range of competition compliance issues.

Practice head(s):

Samantha Mobley


Other key lawyers:

Keith Jones; Luis Gomez; James Robinson; Mara Ghiorghies; Anthony Gamble; Eva Warden; Gavin Hayes; Zeyang Gao


Testimonials

‘This practice is unique based on its overall ability to handle global competition law questions in different countries, their knowledge of competition law, responsiveness to legal questions, and their practical advice.’

‘Samantha Mobley, Paul Johnson and Mara Ghiorghies all stand out as excellent attorneys in terms of knowledge of the law, practical advice, and responsiveness.’

‘Excellent associates and partners alike with extremely well-drafted documents, advice and submissions.’

Key clients

Alphabet Inc.


Barclays Bank, PLC


Bristol Myers Squibb Company


Core Equity Holdings


EDF Energy


ICU Medical, Inc.


JAIN Irrigation Systems Limited


L’Oréal S.A.


McDonald’s Corporation


Nestlé S.A.


Nike, Inc.


Platinum Equity, LLC


Sika AG


Silver Lake


Unichem Laboratories Limited and Niche Generics Limited


Unilever plc


Whirlpool Corporation


Willis Towers Watson PLC


Vertiv Co.


Work highlights


  • Assisted Platinum Equity Group in obtaining the regulatory and necessary conditions, namely merger control clearances and foreign investment authorisations, across two of its latest cross-border transactions.
  • Assisting Sika (the Swiss multinational specialty chemical company) to acquire MBCC Group, the former BASF Construction Chemicals, from an affiliate of Lone Star Funds, a global private equity firm, for a consideration of USD 5.6 billion.
  • Advised Jain Irrigation Systems Limited on the merger of its international irrigation business with Temasek-owned Rivulis Pte. Ltd, a direct competitor.

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton draws considerable praise from clients, who turn to the team for its ‘excellent technical ability’ and ‘keen strategic insight’ on the full gamut of contentious and non-contentious competition matters. Technology sector expertise is a defining characteristic of the practice group, advising some of the world’s leading tech companies on critical transactions. Nicholas Levy and Jackie Holland jointly lead the team: Levy is a key name for advising household names on complex multi-jurisdicitonal merger control, international transitions and market investigations, while Holland is an expert on all aspects of competition law and boasts an excellent track record for representing clients before the CMA and European Commission. Maurits Dolmans, who splits his time between London and Brussels, is noted for his expertise across the information technology, media and entertainment, telecom and financial services sectors. Paul Stuart has been praised for his ‘vast knowledge of both the pharma industry, competition law, and litigation strategies.’

Practice head(s):

Nicholas Levy; Jackie Holland


Other key lawyers:

Maurits Dolmans; Paul Gilbert; Henry Mostyn


Testimonials

‘They are extremely smart, experienced, hard-working, responsive and pragmatic when needed. Best lawyers I have ever worked with.’

‘Paul Stuart is so smart, pleasant and professional. Vast knowledge of both the pharma industry, competition law, and litigation strategies. He is fantastic to work with.’

‘Alexandra Hackney, is such a bright mind.’

Key clients

AbbVie


American Express


Broadcom


Coca-Cola


Giphy


Goldman Sachs


Google


GSK


“K” Line


LG Display


Lundbeck


NVIDIA


Open Text


Sika


Sony Music Entertainment and Sony Interactive Entertainment


Telefonica


Thales


Twitter


Veolia


The Walt Disney Company


Work highlights


  • Advising Sony Interactive Entertainment on its global antitrust efforts in connection with Microsoft’s proposed acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
  • Acting as global antitrust counsel to Broadcom Inc., a global technology leader, in its proposed acquisition of software company VMware Inc.
  • Advised Veolia Environment, the global leader in optimized resources management, in its €12.9 billion acquisition of Suez.

Kirkland & Ellis International LLP

‘Pragmatic, supremely knowledgeable, very commercial’, Kirkland & Ellis International LLP‘s London practice boasts an esteemed team of highly regarded partners, renowned for its ability in handling high-value, multi-jurisdictional mergers. The team is regularly sought after for its expertise on transactions subject to varying levels of regulatory scrutiny, catering to blue-chip clients hailing from the natural resources, TMT and financial services sectors. Leading the team is the ‘first rate’ and ‘deeply respected’ Paula Riedel, lauded by both clients and peers for her extensive knowledge in high-value transactions; Riedel also regularly represents corporations before the European Commission and the CMA. Co-head Alasdair Balfour joins the team from Allen & Overy LLP. The dual-qualified (English and Belgian) Sally Evans has been instrumental in the growth of the firm’s UK FDI practice and excels in UK merger control proceedings. Michael Engel has left the practice to join White & Case LLP.

Practice head(s):

Paula Riedel; Alasdair Balfour


Other key lawyers:

Sally Evans; Matthew Sinclair-Thomson; Athina Van Melkebeke; Samantha Jones


Testimonials

‘They offer an excellent service in creating a well organised, efficient and project managed service for transactional clients in a highly technical area.’

‘Their use of data management and staffing (including paralegals) means you feel that you are getting an efficient and high value for money service, with appropriate input from senior lawyers where needed.’

‘One of the most diverse teams I have worked with, which is of key importance.’

‘Work very well in delivering under extremely tight deadlines.’

‘Paula Riedel and Sally Evans – both excellent and technically skilled partners who are always available when required, but also run a well managed team with trust in their associates. They offer a commercial approach and are very good at translating the more technical legal aspects of their work for non-legal people.’

‘Samantha Jones – up and coming associate, who really takes ownership of the client relationship and offers a quality level of service.’

‘A pragmatic, supremely knowledgeable, very commercial team with the very able Paula Riedel at its helm.’

‘Paula Riedel is absolutely first rate. A wonderful and deeply respected lawyer who’s judgement is trusted absolutely by my lawyers and business colleagues alike. A truly wonderful practitioner.’

Key clients

Gen Digital – formerly NortonLifeLock


Noble Corporation


Manchester United Football Club and Liverpool Football Club


Huntsman Corporation


Brookfield


Thoma Bravo


Vista Equity Partners


EQT Partners


Cobham Limited


Bain Capital


JPMorgan


Allwyn AG


Avaya


Recticel NV/SA


Korean Air


Work highlights


  • Acted as lead adviser for consumer cyber safety (CCS) company NortonLifeLock Inc. on its transformative takeover of Avast plc.
  • Represented Noble Corporation as lead antitrust counsel on the acquisition of rival Maersk Drilling, a merger which created one of the largest offshore drilling companies in the world.
  • Acting for long-standing client Huntsman Corporation in relation to the sale of its Textile Effects business to Archroma.

Latham & Watkins

Leveraging its extensive global network, the competition team at Latham & Watkins earns high praise from clients for its ‘proactive approach’. Boasting a formidable team of partners and associates, the practice is adeptly positioned to assist on both contentious and non-contentious matters. In recent months, the team has advised on a host of big-ticket multi-jurisdictional mergers and has showcased its expertise before the European Commission and CMA on a series of in-depth Phase II investigations. The team is jointly steered by Jonathan Parker and David Little; Parker has an impressive track record working on high-profile and complex matters, and Little is lauded for his ‘enormous depth of regulatory experience’. The firm’s competition offering has been bolstered by the hire of merger control expert Simon Pritchard, who joined from Linklaters LLP.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Parker; David Little


Other key lawyers:

Simon Pritchard; Greg Bonné; Ludmilla Le Grand; Alexandra Luchian; Mark Wagh


Testimonials

‘The team has particular expertise in UK and EU mergers, with partners having experience with the CMA.’

‘Greg Bonne is a standout new partner, he is bound for a stellar career and already has loyal clients amongst the tech giants.’

‘David Little has an enormous depth of regulatory experience, both in the UK and EU merger control.’

‘Jonathan’s team work seamlessly together and the team has a very proactive approach.’

 

Key clients

Meta


GRAIL, Inc


Viasat


Saur


Fartech


Bosch Rexroth


Demant A/S


GCP Applied Technologies


CooperCompanies


NVIDIA Corporation


AMD


Microsoft


Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM)


American Airlines Group


KKR & Co. Inc


 


Work highlights


  • Representing GRAIL in the EC’s review of its acquisition by Illumina, a landmark case concerning application of the referral powers under Article 22 of the EU Merger.
  • Assisting Viasat Inc., a global communications company, in obtaining global antitrust and foreign investment approvals for its proposed US$7.3 billion acquisition of Inmarsat, a leading provider of global mobile satellite communications services.
  • Representing Demant in obtaining antitrust clearance in the planned sale of its hearing implants business to Cochlear Limited, a producer of implantable hearing solutions, involving an in-depth Phase 2 investigation with the CMA and parallel review by the European Commission and ACCC in Australia.

Macfarlanes LLP

Macfarlanes LLP stands out as a strong choice for a diverse range of clients, who turn to the team for its wide-ranging capabilities in behavioural and transactional competition matters. The firm is adeptly guided by practice head Malcolm Walton who regularly represents clients on high-stakes investigations before the the CMA and European Commission into suspected price-fixing or cartel activity. Cameron Firth has particular expertise in the application of antitrust law in the retail and consumer sector and routinely represents clients before a range of regulatory authorities. Praised for his capabilities across the full scope of competition law matters, Tom Usher is noted for his experience in the gambling and broadcasting sectors; he is now a senior adviser at the firm.

Practice head(s):

Malcolm Walton


Other key lawyers:

Cameron Firth; Tom Usher; Simon Day; Emma Radcliffe; Caja Griesenbach


Testimonials

‘Tom Usher is exceptional.’

Key clients

Associated British Foods


BBC


Daimler Truck/Mercedes-Benz


Genius Sports


NatWest


Performing Rights Society/BPI


Sepura


Société Générale


Teva


ZF Friedrichshafen


Britvic


Mahle Behr


Work highlights


  • Assisting CHC Helicopters with the CMA’s Phase II merger control investigation, dealing with complex hold separate issues and achieving a conditional clearance, successfully negotiating divestment and purchaser approval with completion imminent.
  • Advised Flynn Pharma in connection with its successful appeal before the Supreme Court, with the Court finding that successful appellants against CMA decisions are entitled to recover their costs.
  • Advising Genius Sports Group on a series of cases that are highly significant and capable of affecting the global markets for sports betting data rights and successfully negotiating a settlement under which the client maintained its exclusive rights.

Norton Rose Fulbright

The competition group at Norton Rose Fulbright is praised by clients for its ‘global reach, skills and knowledge’. Possessing the capabilities to assist clients on the full spectrum of competition matters, the team has a particular focus on the technology, financial, transport and energy sectors. Ian Giles and Mark Simpson respectively head the firm’s EMEA and London practices. Giles covers a range of antitrust and competition law areas, with a specific focus on merger control and cartels. Simpson, described as ‘fantastic’ and ‘very dedicated’, has advised on a number of price control appeals before the CMA. The ‘highly commercial’ Mark Tricker is noted for his expertise in merger control clearances, cartel investigations and market investigations. The team has been strengthened by the arrival of Miranda Cole, who joined from Covington & Burling LLP, and Alexandra Rogers, who joined from White & Case LLP.

Practice head(s):

Ian Giles; Mark Simpson


Other key lawyers:

Peter Scott; Caroline Thomas; Mark Tricker; Susanna Rogers; Miranda Cole; Alexandra Rogers; Helen Fairhead


Testimonials

‘Solid team, with great energy sector knowledge. Can adapt and excel in almost any issue.’

‘I have worked with Mark Simpson and Helen Fairhead for approximately 4.5 years on various matters. Consistent service.’

‘Helen is incredibly hard-working and switched on. She’s really sharp and strategic and never stops thinking about how to get the client where it wants to be.’

‘Mark is super-quick and immediately picks up new points and sees angles and potential outcomes that other people haven’t seen. He is fantastic at cases with difficult tactical interplays between points.’

‘Norton Rose have a very dedicated and impressive team in competition litigation that punches well above its weight.’

‘Caroline Thomas has impeccable judgment and is truly an impressive lawyer and individual. Mark Simpson is a very well known figure, greatly experienced, liked and respected in the field. Helen Fairhead is very popular with clients and a future star.’

‘The team has strength in its global reach, skills and knowledge.’

‘Mark Tricker, Partner, is one of the best external lawyers with whom I have had the pleasure of working. He is approachable and always makes time for our organisation. He knows his subject matter inside and out, and is able to explain complicated concepts with ease. Mark is also highly commercial.’

Key clients

Qualcomm


Microsoft


BMW


Bloomberg


bp plc


Bristol Water plc


CAE


Carlsberg


Coca-Cola Europacific Partners


Delta Air Lines


Exxon Mobil


HSBC


Jet2


National Grid


Orange


PayPal


PayPoint plc


Qatar Energy


Ritchie Bros.


Shell


SONI Limited


Stena Line


Stuart


SkyShowtime


Work highlights


  • Acting for Qualcomm defending an estimated £480m opt-out collective abuse of dominance claim brought against it in the Competition Appeal Tribunal.
  • Advising BMW AG and BMW (UK) Limited on a CMA investigation into whether there has been a Chapter I infringement regarding recycling of end-of-life vehicles.
  • Advising HSBC on defending claims by 171 fund claimants before the Competition Appeal Tribunal claiming damages arising out of conduct investigated by various authorities (including the European Commission) concerning the alleged fixing of Forex rates and related spreads.

Addleshaw Goddard

The ‘top-tier’ team at Addleshaw Goddard is lauded for its capabilities in assisting clients on a broad range of competition and antitrust issues. The practice enjoys a stellar reputation among clients and peers alike, earning further praise for possessing the ‘bandwidth to deal with multi national complex issues’. Rona Bar-Isaac  leads the firm’s Retail and Consumer team and provides the full range of advice in complex market investigations. The London team has been bolstered by the arrival of Paul Chaplin, who joins from Hogan Lovells International LLP, and managing associate Karoline Phillips, who joins from Baker McKenzie. Former national practice head Bruce Kilpatrick left for Linklaters in autumn 2023.

Practice head(s):

Bruce Kilpatrick; Mark Molyneux


Other key lawyers:

Rona Bar-Isaac; Al Mangan; Samantha Haigh; Paul Chaplin; Karoline Phillips; Sarah Randall


Testimonials

“Top tier competition team who can really mix it with the magic circle firms. They are fantastic to deal with; very commercial; very approachable and they have the bandwidth to deal with multi national complex legal issues. They are always at the cutting edge and pioneering developments whether that be equality and diversity or the latest technology. A brilliant firm to work with.’

‘Mark Molyneux – partner – heads the team. He is both bright and bold. A great strategist and leader. The team has gone from strength to strength under Mark’s leadership.’

‘Samantha Haigh – partner – a top rate litigator who is brilliant to work with.’

‘Very strong knowledge of the sector bringing insight and experience. They take on board feedback and input very well.’

‘Very experienced at supporting multi-firm common interest privilege groups.’

‘They take the time to create strong individual relationships. They respond well to feedback and input.’

‘Operate in a strategic manner and communicate effectively with all stakeholders.’

Key clients

Allergan plc (member of the AbbVie Inc Group)


Ferryspeed (CI) Limited


SSE Plc


GIPHY Inc


Road Haulage Association (Trucks)


Openreach – CAT intervention


NKT A/S and NKT Verwaltungs GmbH (NKT) (Cables)


Co-Op (Arthur)


Access to Cash


Lidl (Proctor v Lidl)


Work highlights


  • Represented Allergan in administrative proceedings before the CMA and the CAT related to the investigation of the supply of hydrocortisone tablets.
  • Represented SSE in its challenge to Ofgem’s decision to accept modifications (CMP317/327) to the Connection & Use of System Code concerning electricity transmission system charges for generators.
  • Advised ten of the largest high street banks on the antitrust and merger control aspects of the creation of a new company to assist with the roll out of the new banking hubs.

Bristows LLP

The ‘outstanding’ competition group at Bristows LLP has been recognised as among ‘the best for innovation and IP related competition matters’ in the market. The practice has a proven track record in representing clients within the technology and life sciences sectors. Team lead Sophie Lawrance is a key port of call for clients in the technology and pharmaceutical sectors, providing specialist guidance on various competition law issues, including licensing standard essential patents. Stephen Smith has 20 years’ experience advising across a broad range go EU and UK competition law matters across the life sciences, financial services, retail, telecommunications and technology sectors.

Practice head(s):

Sophie Lawrance


Other key lawyers:

Stephen Smith; Sean-Paul Brankin; Edwin Bond


Testimonials

‘Outstanding team, the best for innovation and IP related competition matters. Exceptional knowledge of the underlying technologies and markets. Very helpful sinergies with tech and patent teams.’

‘Pat Treacy is one of the leading figures in the UK. Sophie Lawrence is extremely knowledgeable and effective.’

Key clients

CityFibre


Google


Morningside


Wayfair


Sure Guernsey Limited


Ocado Retail


Abingdon Health


Sony Interactive Entertainment Europe


Teva Pharmaceuticals


Bestway Group / Well Pharmacy


Work highlights


  • Providing ongoing strategic advice on numerous matters for CityFibre in its rollout of a national challenger full fibre network to BT Openreach
  • Advising Sure (Guernsey) Limited on the merger control and public interest aspects of its acquisition of Airtel in the Channel Islands
  • Advising Bestway on a proposed strategic acquisition.

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner houses a practice described as ‘engaging, approachable, fair and incredibly customer centric’. The team possesses a truly multifarious competition offering, regularly advising on merger control, investigations and state aid matters. The ‘fantastic’ practice head Andrew Hockley – who has recently been primarily based in Sydney – has extensive experience in the regulated utilities and energy sectors. Victoria NewboldChris Bryant and Paul Culliford have been praised for their ‘considered and practical advice’. The London team has been bolstered by the arrival of associate Ben Bolderson, who joined from Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton. Associate director Marieke Datema also joins the team from CMS.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Hockley


Other key lawyers:

Victoria Newbold; Chris Bryant; Ben Bolderson; Marieke Datema


Testimonials

‘They’ve addressed various competition matters for us, as well as assisting with general compliance.’

‘Vic, Paul and Chris are excellent. They deliver timely, considered and practical advice. They know our business, are accessible and make complex, technical matters understandable for the whole business.’

‘The BCLP team is engaging, approachable, fair, and incredibly customer-centric.’

‘They give pragmatic and practical advice that shows that they always see you in the centre of the engagement.’

‘Andrew Hockley is fantastic. His advice helped us secure outstanding results facing one of the largest companies in the UK, who were ‘armed’ with multiple partners from a top-3 law firm. His advice allowed us to come prepared, negotiate freely, and identify – in real time – advantages we had in this case.’

Key clients

easyJet


Royal Mail Group Ltd


Morgan Stanley


National Grid


Scottish Power


Lumen Technologies


BT


Tesco


Evolution Gaming Group


Heathrow Airport Limited


Dawsongroup


BGC


Thames Water


Roadchef


Accolade Wines


London Stock Exchange Group


Enterprise


Work highlights


  • Advising Thames Water is connection with the ongoing Ofwat investigation into suspected breaches of licence conditions and/or statutory duties pertaining to the treatment of wastewater.
  • Advised Lumen Technologies, a multinational technology company, on the merger control and investment screening aspects of its exclusive arrangement for the proposed sale of Lumen’s Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) business to Colt Technology Services for $1.8 billion.
  • Advising longstanding AIM client Kape Technologies plc on the cash offer announced by Unikmind Holdings Limited on 13 February 2023 for all the issued share capital of Kape not already owned by Unikmind.

CMS

Leveraging its huge global network to provide clients with a truly international offering, the ‘excellent’ team at CMS is well positioned to advise clients on the full gamut of strategic competition advice, with particular capabilities in the digital, media, energy and pharmaceuticals sectors. The practice is helmed by Brian Sher, who has been praised for his ‘immense experience’ advising high-profile clients on the full scope of competition matters. Jacqueline Vallat was promoted to partner in May 2022 and is noted for her expertise advising on merger control and antitrust issues in the TMC, financial services and energy sectors. The national team has been strengthened by the arrival of Wendy Nicolson, based in Edinburgh, who joined from Pinsent Masons LLP, as well as Neil Baylis from Mishcon de Reya LLP in August 2023.

Practice head(s):

Brian Sher


Other key lawyers:

Jacqueline Vallat; Kabir Garyali; Dan Tench; Neil Baylis


Testimonials

‘Brian Sher leads an excellent team, with a great range of experience in the entertainment and digital sectors.’

‘Brian Sher has immense experience and expertise in competition mergers and investigations.’

‘Dan Tench is a judicial review guru who knows more than anyone in the field.’

Key clients

Alliance Pharma Plc


BAE Systems


BBC


BT Plc


Cadent Gas


CEMEX


Coca-Cola Europacific Partners


Dentsu


GlaxoSmithKline


Microsoft


Octopus Group


Northern Ireland Water


ParentPay / ESS


SSE


Thomson Reuters


Work highlights


  • Advised BT on the competition and merger control aspects of the establishment of a novel sports broadcasting joint venture between BT Group (“BT”) and Warner Bros Discovery (“WBD”) for their major two UK and Ireland sports broadcasting businesses (BT Sport and Eurosport).
  • Acting for Education Software solutions (ESS) and ParentPay in achieving a successful and novel settlement to a CMA abuse of dominance investigation regarding the notice period for contractual changes. The settlement involved an independent adjudication system.
  • Advised a consortium on the merger control and National Security & Investment Act implications of the consortium’s acquisition of 60% of National Grid Gas, operator of the UK’s national gas transmission system and an independent metering business.

DLA Piper

Fielding a ‘proactive’ competition team, praised for its ‘technical ability’, DLA Piper offers advice across the full scope of competition law matters, ranging from merger control and FDI clearance, to regulatory investigations and appeals of decisions. Pharmaceutical and sports sector expertise is a defining characteristic for the practice group, frequently receiving instructions from major pharmaceutical companies and high-profile sports clubs and associations. Noted for her ‘keen intelligence’, practice head Sarah Smith has extensive experience on the merger control front, routinely advising on complex and high-value transactions. Matt Evans regularly advises clients on complex cross-border and UK merger control matters and has been praised for his ‘unchallenged expertise’ in the field.

Practice head(s):

Sarah Smith


Other key lawyers:

Matt Evans; Alexandra Kamerling; Chloe Cumber; Richard Jenkinson; Alistair White; Martin Strom; Sam Szlezinger


Testimonials

‘Matt Evans is unique in his way of advising his clients. On top of his unchallenged expertise and the relationships he has with the authorities, he understands immediately who his client is, the level of maturity in the antitrust field, the business needs, the need for innovation and finding solutions and makes himself and his team available to bring cases to success.’

‘Sarah Smith – keen intelligence, hard working, will fight for her client.’

‘Matt is a great comfort for clients.’

‘The team are proactive. They give practical and executable advice. They make the issues as simple as possible and ensure that it is easily understood by commercial colleagues. When things get tricky they do not sit on the fence but give options and enough information to assess risk.’

‘Alix Kamerling is an exceptional lawyer. She is always personable and available – seemingly whatever the hour or issue. Her advice is always helpful and commercially understandable. We have trusted her and her team to directly train our teams and senior individuals.’

‘Good technical ability; very easy to work with.’

Key clients

Admiral Taverns


Aggreko


Audi


Australian Technology Group


ASOS


BAE Systems, Inc.


Bacardi


Blue Ibsen


Bexley


CBRE


CVS Group PLC


Consolis Group


Dentsu


Warner Bros. Discovery


Ecolab Inc.


Eisai


Elliot Advisers


European Leagues


Flybe


Formula 1


Football DataCo


Graphic Packaging International Inc.


Gap


Heineken UK


HSBC plc


John Menzies


Korean Air


Link Group


Lupin


Ministry of Defence


Merck KgaA


MKS Instrument, Inc


Newell Brands


Oxford Properties Group


Pearl


Pfizer


Philip Morris International


Premier League


Ramsay Healthcare


RPS Group (Tetra Tech)


Qatar Sports Investments


Royale Life


Rugby Football Union


SDE


SDL plc


Sonoco


Suppliers Assessment Services Ltd (trading as Construction Line)


Wirral Renewal Projects


Work highlights


  • Acted for Football DataCo in its long-running dispute with Sportradar concerning its distribution model of proprietary sports-bedding data.
  • Advised Warner Bros. Discovery in its establishment of a joint venture with BT Sports establishing Warner Bros Discovery as a major player in sports broadcasting in the UK and Ireland.
  • Acted for Philip Morris International on its acquisitions of Vectura Group plc, Fertin Pharma and OtiTopic, which are worth approximately USD 2 billion combined, working opposite Clifford Chance and other local counsel.

Euclid Law

Euclid Law is an independent competition boutique, and its unique model, described as ‘very efficient’, has been commended for facilitating ‘direct engagement with partners’ . The team is well positioned to offer competition and FDI advice to its diverse roster of clients. The practice fields a highly regarded team of talented partners, led by founder Oliver Bretz and Brussels based Andrea Zulli. With over 15 years’ experience in competition law under her belt, Sarah Long is noted for her focus on online markets and the digital economy, including telecoms. Other notable individuals include the ‘very practical and commercial’ Natalie GreenwoodGavin Robert, who is praised for his ‘great insight’; the ‘fantastic’ Michael Reiss; and ‘leader in his field’ Becket McGrath.

Practice head(s):

Oliver Bretz; Andrea Zulli


Other key lawyers:

Sarah Long; Becket McGrath; Gavin Robert; Marie Leppard; Natalie Greenwood; Michael Reiss


Testimonials

‘The Euclid team has strong expertise in competition law. The business model of only partners/paralegals means that clients receive direct engagement with partners throughout. It appears to be a very efficient, cost effective way to work, with material savings compared to using other law firms, but still with a very high standard of output.’

‘Gavin Robert has great insight into the competition institutions and adds great strategic value.’

‘Natalie Greenwood is very practical and commercial with a solid understanding of commercial priorities.’

‘The practice has expert knowledge of competition law in particular.’

‘Becket McGrath is a leader in his field with fantastic knowledge of all matters relating to competition law regulation.’

‘The process of engaging Euclid Law was frictionless.’

‘Michael Reiss was fantastic! Very knowledgeable and proactive in dealing with our engagement. It felt like we were in good hands, dealing with a complex new set of regulations.’

Key clients

London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG)


BP


Rio Tinto


Guardian Media Group


Pulsant


Citrix Systems Inc.


Towerbrook Capital Partners


GSMA


Mastercard


Shell


Work highlights


  • Advised London Stock Exchange Group plc (LSEG) on merger control throughout its acquisition of Quantile Group Limited. The CMA unconditionally cleared the acquisition after a Phase 2 investigation.
  • Advising BP Plc on multiple projects in the client’s bid to orchestrate major shifts in green renewable energy options and expansions in Asia, Australia, and Europe.
  • Advised Rio Tinto on competition law and merger control advice in relation to the restructuring of the Simandou iron ore joint venture and in particular the creation of an infrastructure joint venture.

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP

Praised for its ‘wealth of experience’ and ‘super pragmatic’ approach, the team at Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP is well-versed in the full gamut of UK and EU competition matters, routinely handling merger control proceedings, FDI filings and investigations. A litany of corporates in the automotive, air transport and financial services sectors turn to International Co-Chair Ros Kellaway for her expertise in cartels and competition investigations. Head of the Competition, EU and Trade team, James Lindop, advises on all aspects of international trade, including on contractual rights and obligations, export controls and economic sanctions. The ‘fantastic’ Peter Harper has extensive experience of obtaining merger control clearances for complex cross-border acquisitions and joint ventures. Kate Newman and Andrew Duckworth have left the firm.

Practice head(s):

Ross Kellaway; James Lindop


Other key lawyers:

Julia Woodward-Carlton; Peter Harper; Elizabeth Coleman; Claire Morgan; Jessica Martin; Georgia Mitchell


Testimonials

‘The team is super pragmatic, providing advice that can be immediately used by our Legal and Compliance team, as well as our internal stakeholders.’

‘Elizabeth Coleman has extensive experience in competition law, including disputes and dawn raids, which gives us the confidence that her advice is up to date and based on her experience.’

‘Very strong competition team with a wealth of experience. I have worked with them on a range of competition matters, including mergers and litigation cases. They have a number of very experienced and well-known competition partners.’

‘Peter Harper is very good and experienced in a wide range of competition matters. He understands client needs very well and is alert to all of the possible risks, for example when obtaining merger clearance.’

‘Claire Morgan is a rising star. She has incredibly good client skills – clients naturally warm to her and she quickly builds strong trust relationships. She also has a huge amount of experience in a range of competition law work.’

‘The individuals that we work with from Eversheds Sutherland are highly capable offering excellent advice and guidance through a process that is highly specialised. They have been excellent on advising and keeping our business on the right path and adhering to all aspects of the IEO.’

‘Peter Harper has been fantastic in leading his team and is very approachable and responsive. Georgia Mitchell  has been excellent in offering advice and guidance, producing highly accurate work time after time and in a very short timescale.’

‘Jessica Martin: Sharp competition law mind. Commercial mindset making it easy for an inhouse lawyer to spar with. Very responsive.’

Key clients

Department for Transport, DfT OLR Holdings Limited, and SE Trains Limited


SSS Public Safety Limited


Albumedix Limited


Work highlights


  • Advising SSS Public Safety Limited (formerly Capita Secure Solutions and Services) in relation to the CMA’s investigation of its completed acquisition by NECSWS.
  • Advised Albumedix Limited, a leader in recombinant human-based solutions, in relation to its £425m sale to sartorial, an international laboratory and bioprocessing technology company.

Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher

With a diverse roster of blue-chip multinational clients on its books, Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher continues to gain significant traction in the London competition market. Advising on complex Phase II merger control cases before the CMA is a defining characteristic of the practice group, attracting clients who specifically seek the firm’s assistance in these matters. Co-chair of the firm’s Antitrust and Competition Group, Ali Nikpay, is highly regarded in the market and focuses on economically complex mergers, multi-jurisdictional cartels and market investigations. Deirdre Taylor handles the full range of antitrust issues, with a focus on the technology, retail, pharmaceutical and manufacturing sectors.

Practice head(s):

Ali Nikpay


Other key lawyers:

Deirdre Taylor; Attila Borsos


Key clients

VMware


LIV Golf


Novartis


KKR


Elliot Investment Management


Schlumberger


P&O


DaVita


UBS


Fender


Work highlights


Pinsent Masons LLP

Drawing considerable praise from clients for its ability to marry its ‘tactical ability’ with a ‘client-driven, strategic and focussed’ approach, Pinsent Masons LLP‘s sizable practice is consistently engaged by high-profile clients across the life sciences, financial services, and automotive sectors on both contentious and non-contentious competition matters. The practice is steered by the ‘versatile’ Alan Davis, who is a specialist on CMA investigations into anti-competitive agreements and practices, including civil and criminal cartels. The ‘brilliant’ Angelique Bret advises clients on the rules relating to the abuse of market power and anti-competitive agreements. Robert Vidal, praised for his ‘encyclopaedic knowledge’ of the life science sector, has extensive experience advising on all aspects of competition law and the interplay with intellectual property.

Practice head(s):

Alan Davis


Other key lawyers:

Angelique Bret; Robert Vidal; Giles Warrington; Dr. Totis Kotsonis; Paul Williams; Ian Hastings; Christopher Sharp; Totis Kotsonsis; Katrien Miclotte


Testimonials

‘I worked with Angelique Brett. She was brilliant. Specifically, she worked the way we needed – producing briefings / notes when agreed, sometimes holding calls with our numbers stakeholders to explain a perspective, and kicking around options and ideas.’

‘Robert Vidal has an encyclopedic knowledge of his sector and is a trusted pair of hands, who you can rely on for an immediate answer to a problem. He has calm way of dealing with problems and presents in a clear and commercially focused manner, which endears him to the wider business.’

‘Pinsents have a fantastic competition practice that has greater scale and scope and depth than practically any other practice. They are very well positioned as both a leading London and regional firm and able to leverage a diverse client base as a result.’

Key clients

Google


Post Office Limited


E.ON


Tesco PLC


Motor Fuel Group


TEVA


FP McCann Limited


Olympus Keymed


Sun Pharma


Therabody Inc


Pay UK


John F Hunt


Work highlights


  • Advising Motor Fuel Group Limited (MFG) in relation to CD&R LLP’s purchase of Morrisons, plc for £7 billion.
  • Advising Pay.UK, the operator of Bacs and Faster Payments, on the New Payments Architecture (NPA) project.
  • Representing Redrock Investment Limited (a subsidiary of the Chinese SDIC Power Holdings Co Ltd) in its acquisition of a minority interest in Electricity North West Limited.

Simmons & Simmons

Simmons & Simmons draws considerable praise from clients, who laud the competition team for its ‘clear practical advice’ and ‘sophisticated’ approach. Leveraging its considerable global network, the team is well positioned to act for clients across the TMT, financial services, life sciences and healthcare sectors on merger control and antitrust matters, as well as behavioural investigations. Practice head Satyen Dhana has specific expertise in complex investigations of the sectorial regulators in the UK, particularly the FCA and Office of Rail and Road. The ‘very knowledgable and experienced’ Mark Jephcott is an expert in all aspects of competition law in relation the regimes of the UK, Europe and many jurisdictions in Asia, making him well placed to assist on cross-border transactions. Managing associate David Trapp is noted for his experience in merger control matters and contentious actions before the CMA and EC.

Practice head(s):

Satyen Dhana


Other key lawyers:

Mark Jephcott; David Trapp; Duncan Green


Testimonials

‘Mark Jephcott is well versed in financial services and is a very practical and pleasant person to deal with, on the single matter we worked on. Duncan Green is also an outstanding associate, who is very knowledgeable.’

‘I found the team very collaborative and efficient, no-nonsense and sophisticated.’

‘Mark Jephcott is very knowledgable and experienced.’

Key clients

Suez S.A.


Honeywell


APG


NPD Group Inc.


Future


Flex International USA, Inc.


Roland UK Limited


Macquarie


Work highlights


  • Advising Suez S.A. through its UK CMA Phase 2 merger review – pursuant to its acquisition by Veolia Environnement S.A. – following a ‘hostile’ takeover situation in Phase 1.
  • Assisting Honeywell with the merger analysis, EU notification and coordination of notifications in various other jurisdictions of the creation of a joint venture with Saudi Aramco.

Travers Smith LLP

Praised for its ‘reassuring, straightforward and practical’ advice, the team at Travers Smith LLP is regularly engaged in a wide spread of competition law matters, ranging from merger control and FDI clearances, to behavioural and cartel investigations. At the helm sits Nigel Seay, who has extensive experience leading on EU, UK and International merger control clearances across a wide range of sectors. Stephen Whitfield ‘instils confidence’ in his clients and is noted for his diverse practice focus, advising clients across the technology, financial services, life sciences and media sectors. Senior counsel Ingrid Hodgskiss is recommended for her expertise international merger clearances, FDI issues and antitrust matters.

Practice head(s):

Nigel Seay


Other key lawyers:

Stephen Whitfield; Ingrid Hodgskiss; Richard J Brown; Thomas Davies


Testimonials

‘Very reassuring, straightforward and practical in their advice. Proactive in raising developments and issues that are likely to be relevant to our business.’

‘Stephen Whitfield heads the team and is calm, assured and instils confidence.’

‘Richard J Brown a Senior Associate with exceptional technical knowledge and always remains composed and controlled under pressure.’

‘I value the team’s knowledge of our business and their understanding of the commercial reality we face as a business (and the need for clear concise advice, which they deliver).’

‘Thomas Davies is very responsive, and is solution focused. He understands that we often don’t have the luxury of time to consider and debate legal technicalities and so we are looking to manage risk and agree action as soon as possible. He delivers advice in a clear and considered manner.’

‘We have used the Travers Smith team in connection with a delicate M&A transaction in a critical sector. The Travers Smith team helped us to navigate the stormy waters of the NSI Act with a mandatory filing in UK. We obtained profound and practical advice within the ambit of a new regime with little official guidance.’

‘We can strongly recommend Stephen Whitfield and Ingrid Hodgskiss. They are truly outstanding experts in the field of FDI / competition law.’

Work highlights


  • Advising international investment bank Nomura on its application to the EU General Court for annulment of the European Commission’s decision finding anti-competitive behaviour in the primary and secondary European Government Bond markets.
  • Advising EMIS, a leading publicly listed UK healthcare software, information technology and related services provider, in respect of its acquisition by UnitedHealth Group, a US multi-national healthcare and well-being company.
  • Advising German food products and nutrition business, Saria, on the UK CMA process for its £667 million takeover offer for major competitor Devro plc.

Weil, Gotshal & Manges (London) LLP

Weil, Gotshal & Manges (London) LLP houses a ‘capable and expert’ competition practice that leverages its integrated transatlantic offering to act for some of the world’s leading corporates on a host of big-ticket competition mandates. The firm’s international footprint has been further strengthened with the opening of a new office in Brussels. In recent months, the team has been instructed on a number of market-defining antitrust matters, including advising Microsoft on its $68.7bn proposed acquisition of Activision Blizzard, Inc. The ‘extremely talented and knowledgeable’ practice head Jenine Hulsmann is a highly regarded antitrust lawyer with a stellar market reputation. She advises a diverse roster of clients on merger and foreign investment proceedings and competition law investigations. Niklas Maydell splits his time between London and Brussels and regularly represents clients before the European Commission.

Practice head(s):

Jenine Hulsmann


Other key lawyers:

Niklas Maydell; Neil Rigby; Nafees Saeed; Chris Chapman; Chris Thomas


Testimonials

‘A capable and expert competition practice.’

‘Jenine Hulsmann is an extremely talented and knowledgeable lawyer. I can rely completely on her advice and on her knowledge and acumen in supporting me in running merger processes.’

‘Chris Thomas – extremely strong operator and incredibly responsive. Meticulous on the detail but still retains a strong grasp of the big picture.’

Key clients

Eutelsat


Microsoft


Brookfield


Liberty Global/Telefonica/Virgin Media


Cinven


Advent International


Cobham


Macquarie


Generation Investment Management


MBCC


Work highlights


  • Advising Microsoft on its $68.7bn proposed acquisition of Activision Blizzard, Inc.
  • Advising MBCC Group, the former BASF Construction Chemicals business, on its sale to Sika for a consideration of €5.2bn.
  • Advising Eutelsat on its proposed combination with OneWeb, worth $3.4bn.

White & Case LLP

Praised as ‘highly experienced, incredibly pragmatic and entirely unflappable’, White & Case LLP‘s London team is well positioned to act for some of the world’s leading corporates on the full scope of competition law matters, including merger control, cartel investigations and state aid. The practice regularly works in collaboration with the firm’s global network on a steady stream of high-profile transactions. The ‘highly experienced’ practice head Marc Israel is praised by clients and peers alike for his expertise in complex multi-jurisdictional merger control proceedings. The team has been bolstered by the arrival of Michael Engel who joined from Kirkland & Ellis International LLP. Engel is noted for his expertise across the full spectrum of competition law, in particular advising on multi-jurisdictional merger reviews. Alexandra Rogers has left the practice to join Norton Rose Fulbright.

Practice head(s):

Marc Israel


Other key lawyers:

Michael Engel; James Killick; Genevra Forwood


Testimonials

‘The team provides advice in a very commercial way; they see the issues holistically.’

‘The team anticipates issues and is 3 steps ahead so clients can be prepared for any eventuality.’

‘Marc Israel provides advice in a clear way which is easy to digest and for business people to understand.’

‘The team at White & Case are highly experienced, incredibly pragmatic and entirely unflappable. They helped us to work through the issues in a methodical way and enabled us to reach a positive outcome. They always presented options when these existed to enable us to select the way forward that best suited our business, our budget and our appetite for risk.’

‘Marc Israel is highly experienced, very calm and adept at describing the issues and options in an easily digestible way. Marc’s experience enables him to exude confidence which in turn makes you as client more confident in the way forward.’

‘The firm’s breadth of experience – it has dealt with most situations before, which makes a big difference.’

‘The team is very proactive. It also seeks innovative solutions. It identifies potential issues and goes a step further in looking for solutions. The team also has excellent FDI capacity and a good network to call on in jurisdictions where they are not present.’

‘Marc Israel is excellent. His advice is spot on and practical. He is great to have on your side. He thinks with you and looks for creative solutions.’

Key clients

Amazon


Argus Media


Autoliv


Avast


Blackstone


Blue Water Energy


Bulgarian Energy Holding


Cobepa


CVC Capital Partners


Deliveroo


Eco-Bat


Google


Hill House


Iconix


Kobalt Music Group / AWAL


Lenovo


Macquarie Asset Management


Merck


Meta/WhatsApp


Micula


Mubadala


Nexans


NTN


Perwyn Capital


Pfizer Inc.


Seplat Energy


Servier


Synthetic Rubber


Synthos


Trainline


Work highlights


  • Advising AWAL, a leading provider of services to independent recording artists, on the CMA’s Phase 2 investigation into the sale of its recorded music operations to Sony Music Entertainment.
  • Advising Avast – a leading global provider of anti-virus software – in connection with its US$ 8.1 billion merger with NortonLifeLock to create a global leader in antivirus and consumer security.
  • Advising Symrise, one of the world’s leading fragrance producers, on cartel investigations in the UK, EU and US (as well as Switzerland).

Akin

Boasting a client base that includes large multinationals, investment funds and top financial institutions, the ‘highly collaborative, effective and pragmatic’ team at Akin is renowned for its extensive expertise advising on multi-jurisdictional merger control, behavioural investigations, state aid, and complex litigation matters. Praised for her ‘attention to detail’, practice head Davina Garrod advises numerous corporates and financial institutions on M&A, joint ventures, strategic alliances, restructuring and other forms of equity and debt investments. The ‘exceptional’ Scott Pettifor advises clients across a broad range of sectors, including telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, food, retail, media and insurance, on merger control matters and behavioural issues. Pettifor has also played an instrumental role in driving further growth within the London team.

Practice head(s):

Davina Garrod


Other key lawyers:

Scott Pettifor; Marianna Meriani


Testimonials

‘The Akin team stands out for being highly collaborative, effective and pragmatic. The team has a thorough understanding of commercial issues and the regulatory landscape. They’re great to work with – super smart, collegial and respectful, and determined.’

‘Scott Pettifor is an exceptional lawyer. He’s strategic, sees the long game and is excellent at planning for highly challenging circumstances and scenarios. Highly committed to his clients. He’s also easy to work with.’

‘The team is very attentive and always eager to try to see around corners; all to see and foresee what next step may benefit the client.’

‘Davina Garrod always has a positive mindset and attention to detail.’

‘A close-knit, high-energy team that always delivers and has a wealth of experience with regard to EU and UK procedures in particular. They are very pragmatic and nice to work with.’

‘Davina Garrod is a stand-out practitioner, whose enthusiasm and pragmatism are very infectious.’

Key clients

Singapore Airlines


Bank of America


Dropbox Inc.


Kingston Technology


GIC Singapore Sovereign Wealth Fund


Vitol Group


SLB (formerly Schlumberger)


PIMCO Inc. (part of the Allianz Group)


Apollo Global Management


Olin Chemicals


UBS


Fortenova grupa


Work highlights


  • Representing global chemical powerhouse Olin Corporation on the corporate and competition aspects of its joint venture with Mitsui & Co., Ltd., the BWA JV.
  • Represented Vitol on its $2.3 billion public takeover of Vivo Energy, which was a transaction that required antitrust approval in 12 jurisdictions.
  • Represented a major fund manager in relation to the competition and regulatory approvals processes in multiple jurisdictions for the high-profile and controversial acquisition of Twitter by Elon Musk.

Covington & Burling LLP

Maintaining its strong track record of representing blue-chip clients from the worlds of pharmaceutical, technology and financial services, Covington & Burling LLP is well-versed in the full gamut of competition law matters, ranging from merger control and FDI clearances, to enforcement investigations. The practice is jointly led by Johan Ysewyn, who splits his time between London and Brussels, and merger control expert James Marshall. Under their leadership, the London practice has continued to grow demonstrated by the hire of Christian Ahlborn, former head of Linklaters LLP‘s global competition practice. Associate Sophie Albrighton is noted for her experience advising clients subject to investigations by various competition regulators.

Practice head(s):

Johan Ysewyn; James Marshall


Other key lawyers:

Christian Ahlborn; Sophie Albrighton


Key clients

Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc


Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd


Deutsche Telekom


Bristol Myers Squibb


Air Products


AstraZeneca


Kohlbery & Co.


Horizon Discovery plc


Renesas Corp.


Eaton Corporation Plc


Work highlights


  • Advised Warner Bros. Discovery on the global regulatory aspects of Discovery’s acquisition of AT&T’s WarnerMedia business, valued at more than $50bn.
  • Advised Kohlberg, a leading private equity firm and investor on PCI Pharma, one the merger control and FDI aspects of PCI Pharma’s acquisition of Permira’s LSNE, a premier contract development and manufacturing organisation (CDMO) headquartered in Bedford.

Dechert LLP

Dechert LLP made a series of notable hires for its global antitrust/competition practice in early 2023, with former Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP duo Douglas Lahnborg and Saira Henry joining the firm’s London office alongside other key recruits in the US. The team, which also works in tandem with a strong bench of talent in Brussels, advises a raft of big-name corporates, with recent work including European Commission and CMA investigations and the merger control aspects of major transactions.

Practice head(s):

Douglas Lahnborg


Other key lawyers:

Saira Henry


Key clients

Telenor ASA


Microsoft


Sonos


Work highlights


  • Represented Telenor on the merger of the Malaysian mobile telephony operators Digi and Celcom, creating the largest mobile telephony operator in Malaysia and one of the largest listed companies in Malaysia.

Dentons

Operating across a myriad of sectors and industries including financial services, real estate, transport and energy, the ‘very knowledgeable’ team at Dentons is engaged by a diverse roster of corporate clients on both contentious and non-contentious competition law matters. Under the leadership of Adrian Magnus, the competition group has tripled in headcount since 2015. With over has over 35 years’ experience, Magnus advises clients on merger control and behavioural matters, with a particular focus on the competition aspects of commercial contracts. Christopher Graf is noted for his diverse practice focus and is regularly instructed on big-ticket merger control matters.

Practice head(s):

Adrian Magnus


Other key lawyers:

Christopher Graf; Rebecca Owen-Howes; Thalia Morris


Testimonials

‘Very knowledgeable, supported by a practical approach to filings and reviews.’

‘Very responsive, good balance of extensive knowledge supported by practical application.’

‘Like an extension of our in-house team. Their advice is always clear with the right level of detail depending on the audience, whether that be non-legal colleagues or GCs. We receive risk-based options on how to proceed on matters with a great understanding of commercial issues such as profitability.’

‘The individuals we work with are have a great knowledge of competition law but are also able to explain the intricacies of the law well. They are well organised and clear on timelines – always delivering what they promised.’

‘Excellent support – could not be better.’

Key clients

Merck KGaA


BEIS (Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy)


Yamaha Music Europe


John Lewis/Waitrose


Stagecoach South Western Trains


Marks & Spencer


Avis Budget Group


Capita


TotalEnergies


Airwair International Limited (Dr Martens)


Dye & Durham


Compare the Market


Work highlights


  • Advising BEIS on interventions in the energy markets to reduce energy bills for households and businesses.
  • Representing SSWT in ongoing collective proceedings in the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) brought by Justin Gutmann against SSWT and two other rail operators in relation to alleged abuse of dominance regarding boundary fares.
  • Coordinating Yamaha Music’s representation in RPM investigations by various European competition authorities.

Fieldfisher

The ‘commercially astute’ team at Fieldfisher is routinely instructed by a strong roster of clients from a range of sectors on the full scope of competition law matters. The practice is reputed for its experience in handling complex cross-border deals involving multiple merger and FDI filings, as well as numerous cartel investigations. Praised for his ‘in depth knowledge', John Cassels heads the practice and co-heads the broader regulatory team at the firm. Cassels is noted for his expertise across the full gamut of competition UK and EU competition matters, with a strong record in investigation cases. Jessica Gardner, who is lauded by clients for going ‘above and beyond to deliver commercial and pragmatic advice on time’, was promoted to partner in May 2022.

Practice head(s):

John Cassels


Other key lawyers:

Nick Pimlott; Stephen May; Miguel Vaz; Jessica Gardner; Aonghus Heatley


Testimonials

‘Very detail orientated – clearly subject matter experts.’

‘My experience with Fieldfisher is that they provide pragmatic, commercially astute advice in a timely, cost effective manner. John Cassels’ expertise and guidance is invaluable.’

‘John Cassels is extremely responsive and helpful. Whether it’s advice coming directly from John, or a colleague with the relevant expertise, I know I will be well supported when I request assistance.’

‘Very good regulatory insight into technical areas relevant to our business. Their technical regulatory focus – particularly in ESG – has been invaluable.’

‘Jessica Gardner goes above and beyond to deliver commercial and pragmatic advice on time. She is great at keeping us updated on costs, more than any other firm I’ve worked with, making it much more easy to manage our budget.

‘Aonghus Heatley has great regulatory knowledge and has been an invaluable support for our deposit return scheme project.’

‘Partners give excellent attention to the matters I have seen. Pragmatic and excellent lawyers.’

‘Stephen May – a very practical lawyer. Knows his stuff and is focused on what clients really need. John Cassels – has a really in-depth knowledge of competition law. Massively experienced and has good judgement.’

Key clients

Pubs Code Adjudicator


Peloton Interactive, Inc


Sazerac Company, Inc


Bristow Group, Inc.


SymphonyAI


Work highlights


  • Advised Bristow Helicopters Limited on its acquisition of British International Helicopter Services Limited– the UK’s largest domestically owned helicopter operator.
  • Acted for Peloton Interactive Inc to support the launch and roll out of its exercise bike and associated services in the UK and Europe, including on several significant competition compliance advisory matters, which are all a critical part of Peloton’s growth strategy.
  • Advised US private equity fund SymphonyAI on acquisition of the NetReveal financial crime and AML platform from BAE Systems plc.

Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP

Described as client focused, diligent and reliable’, the competition team at Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP represents clients spanning a range of industries including private equity, media, telecoms, technology and financial services. The team is well positioned to advise on the full spectrum of competition law matters, from cartels and dominance issues to complex Phase II investigations. Practice head Tobias Caspary is well-versed in advising clients on abuse of dominance disputes, state aid, FDI clearances and merger control matters. Senior associate Valeri Bozikhov recently rejoined the team from Addleshaw Goddard  - he is praised for his ‘great understanding of competition matters.’

Practice head(s):

Tobias Caspary


Other key lawyers:

Neda Moussavi; Rebecca Ponnuthurai; Valeri Bozikhov


Testimonials

‘An effective and knowledgeable team. Client focused, diligent and reliable. Thoughtful partners on transactional matters.’

‘Toby Caspary is a knowledgeable, capable and responsive lawyer with a real commercial insight.’

‘Valeri Bozhikov is an excellent associate with a great understanding of competition matters.’

Key clients

Permira


Thoma Bravo


Catalent Inc.


AEA


Madison International Realty


ECF Group SAS/ Natixis Partners SA


Onex Corporation


Liberty Global


Kantar


Novelis


Ascential Group


Goldman Sachs


BlackRock


Tradeweb


Exeter Property Group


Work highlights


  • Acted for Permira in Permira and Hellman & Friedman’s acquisition of joint control over Zendesk, Inc.
  • Acted for Thoma Bravo, a new client of Fried Frank, in relation to Thoma Bravo’s proposed acquisitions of Ping Identity.
  • Acted for AEA in its acquisition of Red Global, a global recruitment company active in the supply of employment agency services (temporary and permanent).

Morgan, Lewis & Bockius UK LLP

The competition group at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius UK LLP is praised for its ability to combine ‘subject matter expertise’ with a ‘practical approach’, to advise its diverse roster of clients on both contentious and non-contentious competition matters. The practice has earned a formidable reputation for its strong competition offering in the pharmaceutical sector where it is routinely instructed by high-profile pharmaceutical companies on a significant volume of CMA investigations. Team lead Frances Murphy is entrusted by clients to oversee their complex, high-profile matters, and plays a pivotal role in driving the team’s involvement in noteworthy contentious and non-contentious engagements. Leonidas Theodosiou, noted for his ‘attention to detail’, was promoted to partner in October 2022.

Practice head(s):

Frances Murphy


Other key lawyers:

Omar Shah; Joanna Christoforou; Leonidas Theodosiou


Testimonials

‘Frances Murphy is an excellent lawyer. What Frances doesn’t know about competition law probably isn’t worth knowing. She is very pragmatic and is always a great sounding board on complex matters.’

‘Subject matter expertise but with a practical approach.’

‘They are all great team players. Joanna Christoforou conveys a real sense of being on your side, even when conveying tough messages.’

‘Leonidas Theodosiou has an attention to detail that means you know he has explored all reasonable avenues in looking for solutions.’

‘Frances Murphy has a calm reassuring manner and a great understanding of this area of law, along with an eye for the detail of specific areas specific to our industry sector.’

‘Leonidas Theodosiou – great understanding of our business and able to tailor his advice accordingly.’

‘Frances Murphy has always been available to explain and guide us. She has worked to understand the market and our involvement in it and our individual circumstances.’

Key clients

Teva Pharmaceuticals


AMCo Pharma


Advanz Pharma


Daimler Trucks


Amentum/Pacific Architects and Engineers


Mercedes Benz Trucks


AstraZeneca UK


Focus Pharmaceuticals


McDonald’s Restaurants Limited


Richemont


Tata Steel


Trillium Flow Technologies


Intercontinental Exchange


Yandex NV


Abellio East Anglia Limited


Rail Delivery Group


Perrigo


Work highlights


  • Leading Concordia’s/Advanz’s defence in relation to the alleged excessive and unfair pricing of the thyroid drug Liothyronine under Chapter II / Article 102.
  • Representing a group of 24 railway companies in claims against Visa and Mastercard before the High Court.
  • Represented PAE in relation to a CMA investigation into suspected anticompetitive conduct comprising bid rigging in connection with the procurements for contracts to operate the Heathrow and Derwentside Immigration Removal Centres.

Reed Smith LLP

Reed Smith LLP is routinely instructed by a litany of corporates across a myriad of sectors including media, energy, agriculture, energy, agriculture, shipping, and logistics. Drawing on the firm’s global network, the team possesses the capabilities to provide advice on complex multi-jurisdictional competition law matters, encompassing antitrust merger control proceedings, and state aid issues. At the helm sits Marjorie Holmes, commended as ‘an absolute expert in her field‘, who is highly regarded for her extensive expertise in competition law across various sectors. Ross Mackenzie has over 20 years’ experience across the spectrum of UK and EU competition law and is routinely engaged by high-profile corporates on mergers, antitrust issues, and market investigations. Additionally, associate Emma Weeden is noted for her experience in advising clients in the retail and consumer goods sectors.

Practice head(s):

Marjorie Holmes


Other key lawyers:

Ross Mackenzie; Emma Weeden; Vaibhav Adlakha


Testimonials

‘The team were able to navigate us through the complex global competition issues as part of a key transaction; such issues being new territory for us. The calm, considered and user friendly approach of the team was invaluable and we felt able to make the appropriate and informed decisions needed.

‘Majorie Holmes is fantastic – an absolute expert in her field.’

‘Ross Mackenzie, Vaibhav Adlakha and Emma Weeden were excellent in providing the hand-holding through the issues and taking the time to guide us through the competition complexities. All were stand-out.’

Work highlights


  • Advised on the acquisition of Burts Snacks Limited and its subsidiaries by Snacks Development SAS.
  • Advising THE Alliance for a number of years on merger control, self-assessment, Brexit, COVID-19 as well as general EU and UK competition and compliance issues.
  • Advised on merger control compliance in relation to the multi-jurisdictional merger of North of England P&I Association and Standard P&I Club.

Ropes & Gray LLP

The ‘top-notch’ team at Ropes & Gray LLP attracts considerable praise from clients, who turn to the team for its wide-ranging capabilities across various competition matters, ranging from merger control and FDI clearances to conduct, compliance and antitrust counselling. The team is routinely engaged by blue-chip corporates, pharmaceutical companies and private equity clients on complex multi-jurisdictional merger control matters. Practice head Ruchit Patel is a key port of call for some of the word’s largest companies on matters before the CMA and European Commission.

Practice head(s):

Ruchit Patel


Other key lawyers:

Lisa Kaltenbrunner; Dervla Broderick; James Parkinson; Rupert Phillips; Anna Pugh; Vincenzo Volpe


Testimonials

‘The EU competition team at Ropes is top notch. They are lean and nimble and always able to provide the services we need, and often very quickly. They have taken the time to educate our in-house team on the subject and provide close guidance on the process.’

‘Ruchit Patel stands out for his quick thinking on day-to-day matters, combined with an enviable ability to provide bigger picture strategic advice. Lisa Kalttenbrunner is very capable and polished.’

‘Lisa Kaltenbrunner is an expert at anti-trust analysis across more jurisdictions than I can count. She is an incredible source for market practice, the nuances of the regulations and the risk-based decisions to be made.’

Key clients

Adaptimmune


Altice USA, Inc.


America’s Test Kitchen


Apollo Therapeutics Limited


Bloomberg, Inc.


Datavan


Envision Pharma Group


Focusrite PLC


Fortis Life Sciences


Galderma Laboratories LP


Ginkgo Bioworks


Google LLC


HUTCHMED


ImmunoGen, Inc.


Jounce Therapeutics


Kioxia Corporation


Liberty Global


McAfee Corp.


Medtronic plc


Mitsubishi UFJ Trust and Banking Corporation


Monster Energy Company


Novartis


Pfizer Inc.


Provention Bio


Sanofi S.A.


Sarepta Therapeutics


Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc.


System C


Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited


The Wittur Group


Zai Lab Limited


Zoetis Inc.


3i Group plc


Advent International Corporation


AEA Investors LP


Altamont Capital Partners


American Industrial Partners


Angelo Gordon & Co., L.P.


Audax Group


Avista Capital Partners L.P.


Bain Capital, LP


Bain Capital Credit


Baring Private Equity Asia


BDT Capital Partners, LLC


Berkshire Partners LLC


Bridgepoint Advisers II Limited


Cinven


Genstar Capital LLC


GHO Capital Partners LLP


GI Partners


H.I.G Capital, LLC


Invesco Ltd.


Kohlberg & Company LLC


Sightway Capital


Silver Lake Partners LP


Sixth Street Partners LLC


TPG Inc.


TSG Consumer Partners LLC


Two Sigma Investments, LP


Xerox


Work highlights


  • Advised on all antitrust issues on two major transactions for Pfizer, including its $5.4bn acquisition of Global Blood Therapeutics and its $11.6bn acquisition of Biohaven Pharmaceuticals.
  • Advised Medtronic Inc., a leader on the global medical technology market, on the antitrust aspects of its $1.1bn acquisition of Intersect ENT, a well-known publicly traded healthcare equipment company, and its acquisition of Affera, a developer of medical devices designed to treat cardiac arrhythmias.
  • Advised TPG on the merger control and foreign direct investment aspects of several transactions, including the sale of Immucor, inc. to Werfen for approximately $2bn and its $4bn joint acquisition of Covetrus.

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP fields a strong team that benefits from a ‘strong interconnectivity with other practices’, enabling it to provide comprehensive advice on a wide range of competition matters. The practice is routinely engaged by a host of blue-chip clients, entrusted with advising on a steady stream of complex and market-leading transactions. Leading the team is Antonio Bavasso, a highly respected antitrust lawyer with a stellar market reputation. Bavasso has extensive experience in handling merger reviews, government antitrust investigations and antitrust litigation. The ‘excellent’ Ross Ferguson was recently promoted to partner in January 2023; he splits his time between the London and Brussels offices. Étienne Renaudeau is noted for his focus on obtaining antitrust approvals for high-profile and cross-border transactions.

Practice head(s):

Antonio Bavasso


Other key lawyers:

Étienne Renaudeau; Ross Ferguson


Testimonials

‘Strong interconnectivity with other practices, which is particularly useful to in my line of work.’

‘Ross Ferguson is excellent. Strong understanding of the commercial challenges faced by his clients, and able to relate on both personal and professional levels.’

‘Simpson Thacher has a variety of critical practices for us, which create some synergies. They can find information internally without having to go back to us and creating additional work on our end.’

Key clients

AMP Capital


Blackstone


Corsair Capital


CSL


EQT


Ferro


Hellman & Friedman


IFM


KKR


Microsoft


Nexi S.p.A.


News UK & Ireland Ltd.


NPD Group


Oakley Capital


Silver Lake


Stonepeak


Twitter


Work highlights


  • Advised the Board of Directors of Twitter, Inc. in connection with the successful closing of its acquisition by an entity wholly owned by Elon Musk, for $54.20 per share in cash in a transaction valued at approximately $44bn.
  • Represented CSL Limited in connection with its all-cash public tender offer to acquire all publicly held shares of Vifor Pharma Ltd, for $179.25 per share, for an aggregate equity value for Vifor Pharma of $11.7bn.
  • Advised News U.K. in connection with its application to be released from the long-standing undertakings that guarantee the editorial independence of The Times and Sunday Times.

Squire Patton Boggs

Squire Patton Boggs' capabilities in multi-jurisdictional merger clearance processes, cartel investigations, FDI reviews, and state aid matters makes them a strong choice for a diverse roster of clients. The practice is steered by Diarmuid Ryan who splits his time between London and Brussels. Ryan specialise sin competition compliance advice, including advising on compliance and dawn raid programs. Francesco Liberatore is noted for his expertise in the technology driven and digital economy sectors, advising clients on all aspects of competition law.

Practice head(s):

Diarmuid Ryan


Other key lawyers:

Francesco Liberatore; Tatiana Siakka; Martin Rees


Key clients

Altrad Group


Amcor


A.U. Optronics


Bayer UK


Blackhall Facilities Management (Village Vets)


Brewers of Europe


British Beer and Pub Association


Calon


Cathay Pacific


Dussur


EDF


Ericsson


Grafton plc


GSMA


HEICO Corporation


Kongsberg Automotive ASA


LAN


Marston Holdings


Metal Packaging Manufacturers Association


Neptune Networks Limited


NiQ


Primo Water Corporation


Rimac Automobili


Roche


Scandinavian Tobacco Group


Sheffield City Council


Siemens


Sita Aero


SRCL Limited


Telecom Infra Project


Vodafone


World Sailing


Work highlights


  • Advised HEICO Corporation on the non-US merger and FDI control aspects of its $2.1bn acquisition of Wencor Group.
  • Advised ACEA on the CMA’s End-of-life vehicles cartel investigation.
  • Advised Cathay Pacific LAN (separate teams) in respect of a well-publicised investigation by the European Commission into airfreight surcharges, and subsequent follow-on damages litigation in a number of jurisdictions.

Willkie Farr & Gallagher (UK) LLP

Trusted by an array of blue-chip corporate clients, the competition group at Willkie Farr & Gallagher (UK) LLP possesses the capabilities to provide assistance on multi-jurisdictional merger control matters, compliance reviews, and abuse of dominance inquires. The firm boasts an extensive network of international offices, and in recent months, the London practice continues to gain significant traction in the competition market. European practice head Philipp Girardet is recommended for his expertise in complex merger and cartel matters. Rahul Saha leads the merger arbitrage practice in London and is noted for his focus on merger control and foreign investment maters.

Practice head(s):

Philipp Girardet


Other key lawyers:

Rahul Saha


Key clients

Virgin Media O2


CapVest Partners


Franklin Resources (Franklin Templeton)


Expedia Group


LEGO


Electronic Arts


Match Group


CMA CGM


Work highlights


  • Advising Telefónica UK (O2), now Virgin Media O2 (VMO2), on defending a standalone antitrust damages claims of around £1 billion in the High Court.
  • Advised CapVest and Rodericks in relation to the acquisition and incorporation of Dental Partners Limited, which created one of the UK’s largest dental groups with in excess of 200 practices nationwide.
  • Advising Cérélia Group Holding SAS on its strategic acquisition of the UK & Ireland household pastry and dough brand, Jus-Rol, previously owned by General Mills.

Arnold & Porter

With its extensive expertise in both contentious and non-contentious competition matters, the London team at Arnold & Porter has a particular focus on the life sciences, consumer goods, media and transport sectors. Practice head John Schmidt has experience advising on complex competition conduct issues, investigations, litigation and merger matters spanning the life sciences, consumer goods and TMT sectors. Jane Wessel leads the competition litigation team where she regularly handles competition damages litigation in the English High Court and the Competition Appeal Tribunal.

Practice head(s):

John Schmidt


Other key lawyers:

Jane Wessel; Ludovica Pizzetti; Alastair Brown; Zeno Frediani; Samuel Milucky


Testimonials

‘The team is led by John Schmidt – they have developed a great reputation in the field of life sciences, TMT/media and consumer M&A and advisory.’

‘The team manages complex transactions and has both a domestic and cross-border focus which punches above its weight. It also benefits from a very strong Brussels office.’

‘John Schmidt has an excellent reputation (and huge amounts of experience). Highly recommended.’

‘The team has a wide range of capabilities and is able to coordinate multiple filings across jurisdictions, which has become increasingly important in today’s merger environment. They are very organized.’

‘John Schmidt and Ludovica Pizzetti are very responsive and organized. They have been able to handle complex matters in a multitude of jurisdictions. They are also very practical and take the client’s views into account.’

Key clients

Heineken


AT&T/WarnerMedia


Philip Morris International


Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd (MOL)


AB InBev


Bird & Bird LLP

The team at Bird & Bird LLP is praised for providing ‘swift and practical advice’ with a ‘personal touch’ across a wide array of sectors, including IP, sport, financial services, technology, energy and retail. The practice is regularly instructed by some of the world’s largest corporates on broad range of competition law matters encompassing merger clearances and the national security aspects of acquisitions. Practice head Peter Willis has 30 years’ experience of advising businesses on competition and regulation, in both London and Brussels, spanning multiple sectors. ‘Stand-out’ Ariane Le Strat is noted for her expertise in vertical supply chain arrangements. Legal director Saskia King is a key figure within the practice who is highly regarded for her proficiency in handling a range of antitrust enforcement matters.

Practice head(s):

Peter Willis


Other key lawyers:

Ariane Le Strat; Saskia King


Testimonials

‘The practice specialises in swift and practical advice, meeting corporate timelines and expectations of the most demanding clients.’

‘Ariane Le Strat was a stand-out, really communicative and easy to work with while technically excellent and always correct.’

‘Breadth of knowledge and competence. Responsiveness to need.’

‘I value the personal touch and the ability to develop an understanding of our organisation and its needs. Saskia King has embodied these traits.’

‘The competition law team is very hands on i.e. comes up with practical advice as opposed to theoretical knowledge. Responsiveness is extremely good. Deep and profound experience with regulating authorities.’

‘A strong team that is known for its expertise in the TMT sector in particular. Responsive to client emails and provide tailored advice that is simple to implement.’

‘A strong team throughout, from partners to associates. I would highlight Saskia King for her proactive nature and her commercial approach.’

Work highlights


  • Advising an international sports federation on numerous competition law matters concerning e.g. sporting rules, data and broadcasting.
     
  • Advised the target on the international merger control implications of their acquisition by an international sports streaming service.
  • Supporting a sports federation on the crucial tendering process of their broadcasting rights as well as advising them on numerous, substantive competition compliance issues.

Burges Salmon LLP

The ‘experienced and knowledgeable’ team at Burges Salmon LLP possesses wide-ranging expertise in all manner of merger clearance mandates, investigations, state aid, subsidy control, and procurement matters, earning specific praise for its ‘excellent experience in NSIA notifications.’ The practice assists clients across a range of sectors including technology, financial services, healthcare and utilities. Splitting his time between the London and Bristol offices, practice head Chris Worrall is regularly instructed by a number of household names on the competition aspects of complex and high-profile acquisitions. John Houlden is noted for his expertise in state aid and subsidy control work, while senior associate Shachi Nathdwarawala has developed particular expertise in the financial services and healthcare sectors.

Practice head(s):

Chris Worrall


Other key lawyers:

John Houlden; Shachi Nathdwarawala


Testimonials

‘Very responsive, knowledgeable good value for money.’ 

‘An experienced and knowledgeable team with a diverse range of legal backgrounds means that all angles are considered when providing advice to clients.’

‘Chris Worrall is a very experienced partner who brings a calm approach and good judgment to all matters.’

‘Excellent experience in NSIA notifications.’

‘Chris Worrall and Shachi Nathdwarawala – very user friendly and efficient.’

Key clients

DHL


Co-operative Group Limited


Spire Healthcare


Department for Transport – Office for Zero Emissions Vehicles


ComfortDelGro/Metroline


Alten


UK Research and Innovation


John Lewis/Waitrose


Loop Interiors


Embark Group


Work highlights


  • Secured CMA clearance for DHL in relation to its €1.5 billion acquisition of global freight forwarding group Hillebrand.
  • Advised ComfortDelGro (owners of Metroline and Scottish Citylink) in relation to its acquisition from Stagecoach Group plc of inter-city coach businesses including Megabus.
  • Advised Spire Healthcare on its acquisition of Claremont Hospital.

Debevoise & Plimpton LLP

Praised for its ‘excellent blend of corporate, M&A, capital markets and EU and US antitrust expertise’, the team at Debevoise & Plimpton LLP is well positioned to assist clients on large multi-jurisdictional merger control issues and behavioural matters. The ‘fantastic’ Timothy Mclver heads the practice and much of his work flow is international in nature, regularly counselling clients on their global antitrust strategy. Anne-Mette Heemsoth was promoted to international counsel in January 2023 and regularly advises on foreign investment risk and controls and manages foreign investment reviews.

Practice head(s):

Timothy McIver


Other key lawyers:

Anne-Mette Heemsoth; Megan MacDonald; Nick Pellicani; Bill Regner; Ted Hassi


Testimonials

‘Great team to work with – agile, committed and smart. They’re also very collegial and fun, while being on point on the legal issues.’

‘Tim McIver is fantastic – a great lawyer, with high standards. I would trust Tim with complex and challenging work. He leads a great team of equally committed lawyers.’

‘Megan MacDonald is super. A talented lawyer, who is easy to work with and highly committed – someone worth watching in this space. I’ve really enjoyed engaging with Megan on a variety of issues.’

‘They have a good knowledge of our shareholder’s structure so we can use their advice seamlessly.’

‘The team have an excellent blend of corporate, M&A, capital markets and EU and US antitrust expertise, and litigation.’

‘Nick Pellicani is extremely knowledgeable about US corporate and capital markets law. He has been very responsive to our requests and provided focused advice to enable us to move forward with our project.’

‘Bill Regner is extremely knowledgeable and has provided robust and reassuring advice.’

‘Ted Hassi provided excellent updates regarding the US antitrust aspects of our matter and has terrific contacts at the FTC which he is able to leverage for our benefit. His insights into the US courts and appeals mechanisms are highly appreciated.’

Key clients

Blackstone


Clayton, Dubilier & Rice


DAZN


GoDaddy


Mitsui


Pactiv Evergreen


Resolution Life


Schneider Electric


Syniverse


TIAA


Work highlights


  • Advised CD&R on obtaining merger control and foreign investment approvals for its joint acquisition (alongside TPG) of Covetrus, a global leader in animal healthy technology.
  • Advised Mitsui on obtaining merger control approvals for the formation of Blue Water Alliance JV, LLP with Olin Corporation.
  • Advised The Carlyle Group, as majority owner, and Syniverse on merger control and foreign investment with respect to Syniverse’s partnership with Twilio.

Gowling WLG

Under the leadership of Bernardine Adkins, a seasoned practitioner with over 25 years of EU, trade and competition law experience, Gowling WLG‘s team is adept at assisting clients with all facets of UK and EU competition law, with a particular strength in state aid work. Leveraging the firm’s accomplished IP team, the practice combines its knowledge to provide clients with comprehensive guidance on the interplay between IP and competition law. Samuel Beighton  is noted for his expertise advising on a broad range of competition law instructions, including merger control, dawn raids and investigations.

Practice head(s):

Bernardine Adkins


Other key lawyers:

Samuel Beighton; James Stunt


Key clients

Brockwell Energy


Mazda Motors UK


Island Green Power


Rigby Group


The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders


Origin Enterprises plc


TT Electronics plc


Work highlights


  • Advising in relation to an ongoing CMA investigation into suspected anti-competitive conduct.
  • Advising Rigby Private Equity on the sale of Nuvias Group, a cybersecurity and intelligent networking solutions business, to Infinigate Group AG.
  • Advising TT Electronics plc on the acquisition of the defence sector power and control business of Ferranti Technologies.

HFW

Representing a diverse roster of clients across the shipping, trade and logistics, commodities, insurance and energy sectors, the team at HFW is well-placed to advise on both contentious and non-contentious competition law matters. The practice boasts an extensive international network with offices in Hong Kong, Dubai, Brussels and Australia. Practice head Anthony Woolich is noted for focus on merger control and antitrust matters. Woolich is supported by Daniel Martin, who is noted for his focus on international sanctions regimes and trade law, with considerable expertise in varied areas of EU law.

Practice head(s):

Anthony Woolich


Other key lawyers:

Daniel Martin; Adam Strong; Neil Adams


Testimonials

‘Tony Woolich is particularly effective, combining a deep knowledge of the subject matter with a pragmatic and commercial approach and a pleasant approachable manner. It is always a rewarding experience to work with him.’

‘Good competition law practice as part of a firm which specialises in international trade.’

‘Anthony Woolich is a partner for whom I’ve worked for years – the ultimate safe pair of hands, and exceptionally experienced.’

‘In my experience, the team provides a comprehensive EU, competition and public procurement service; with good strength in depth.’

Key clients

Republic of Cyprus


Maersk Group


BP plc


Victoria Group


Acrisure LLC


European Parliament


Ecom Agroindustrial Corporation Limited


BW Group


Constellation Energy (formerly Exelon Generation)


Work highlights


  • Advising leading commodities traders on multi-jurisdictional merger control reviews for potential acquisitions.
  • Advising leading shipping companies on ship pooling arrangements.
  • Advising a leading Middle East airline on extending its cooperation agreement with another leading Middle Eastern airline and on forming alliances with two African airlines.

Jones Day

Trusted by a diverse roster of bluechip multinational clients, the competition group at Jones Day possesses capabilities across the full scope of merger clearances, antitrust investigations, and competition litigation matters. The practice is spearheaded by Mark Jones who focuses his practice on obtaining competition clearances for M&A transactions and joint ventures; he joined the practice from Hogan Lovells International LLP in March 2022. Jason Beer is recommended for his extensive experience advising on UK, EU and international competition law issues, including complex multi-jurisdictional merger control matters. Sarah Batley and Nicholas Cotter are also noted.

Practice head(s):

Mark Jones


Other key lawyers:

Jason Beer; Nicholas Cotter; Sarah Batley


Testimonials

‘Knowledgeable team, who have taken time to build up a rapport and understand our business.’

‘Responsive support from experienced lawyers with personality! Excellent collaborative support from Mark Jones in particular.’

Key clients

Koch Industries


TransDigm Group Inc.


CBRE Investment Management


EssilorLuxottica


Mastercard


Greystar Partners


Macquarie


Synopsys


Procter & Gamble


K&L Gates LLP

The ‘proactive’ team at K&L Gates LLP attracts considerable praise from clients, who turn to the team for its wide-ranging capabilities in transactional and behavioural competition matters. The practice has a particular emphasis on the vertical space, providing advice on the full gamut of vertical rules including RPM, online and cross-border restrictions and performance pricing. The ‘very diligent’ practice head Jennifer Marsh advises on all aspects of competition law and is regularly engaged by a diverse portfolio of consumer goods heavyweights. Gabriela Da Costa is noted for expertise in EU and UK vertical competition law, having provided assistance to some of the world’s largest consumer brands in sectors such as fashion, luxury, electronics, and sports.

Practice head(s):

Jennifer Marsh


Other key lawyers:

Gabriela da Costa; Michal Kocon; Niall Lavery; Georgina Rigg; Anna Sikora


Testimonials

‘They listen to your needs, are proactive, to the point, clear and great value for money. Provide non-legal lingo to non-lawyers, are creative, and adapt to the risk appetite.’

‘Jennifer Marsh and Michal Kocon are very diligent and aware of their subject matter. They make the time for you and are prompt and clear when completing tasks. Friendly and personable.’

 

Key clients

Royal Copenhagen, Waterford, Wedgwood, Iittala of the Fiskars Group


Jemella Ltd, trading as ghd hair


Westinghouse Electric Company


SharkNinja Europe Limited


Securitas AB


Shelf Drilling, Ltd


Kaman Corporation


GoPro


Aurelius (Ceramic Tile Distributors)


Marshall Amplification PLC


Work highlights


  • Advised Microsoft on its multi-billion investment in OpenAI (creator of ChatGPT).
  • Advising major consumer brands across the spectrum of complex vertical competition law aspects of their go-to-market strategies in Europe and the UK, including GoPro, Prada/Church’s, SharkNinja, Jabra/GN, Waterford, Wedgewood, Royal Copenhagen, ghd, Osprey, Wella, POC Sport, Gucci, Diesel, Ferragamo, and Mölnlycke.
  • Securing acquirers’ suitable purchaser approvals from antitrust and national security regulators in the context of multi-billion transactions, including for Shelf Drilling (Noble/Maersk) and Kaman Corporation (Parker/Meggitt).

Mayer Brown International LLP

Complemented by the firm’s wider disputes practice, the competition group at Mayer Brown International LLP is praised by clients for its ‘strength in depth’ and ‘good mix of legal and strategic thinkers.’ Leveraging its considerable global network, the team is well positioned to act for clients on a range of cross-border competiton matters. Leading the London practice is the ‘first rate’ David M. Harrison , who also serves as co-leader of the firm’s European antitrust and competition practice. Harrison is a trusted advisor for major global corporations seeking guidance on cartel investigations and merger clearance matters. The team has been bolstered by the arrival of Airlie Goodman who joined from Linklaters LLP in February 2022 and sits in the litigation and dispute Resolution practice.

Practice head(s):

David Harrison


Other key lawyers:

Julian Ellison; Airle Goodman; Mark Hills; Kathryn Lloyd; Miles Robinson


Testimonials

‘Airlie Goodman is a top quality litigator and always on our list for referrals.’

‘Strength in depth and a very good mix of legal and strategic thinkers from the junior end right up to partner level.’

‘Miles Robinson is a terrific senior associate. Knows EU law inside out and a tactically strong litigator.’

‘David Harrison is a first rate competition lawyer. Trusted by clients and great to work with. A sixth sense of how to deliver excellent outcomes for clients.’

‘The individuals I worked with were able to break down, simplify and translate legal jargon and the practical impact of theoretical situations.’ 

Key clients

Aurelius


Extra MSA Property Limited


Marlin Equity Partners


Work highlights


  • Advised Extra MSA Property Limited, a motorway services operator, in respect of an investigation by the UK Competition and Markets Authority into long term exclusive supply arrangements for electric vehicle charge points.
  • Advised a Japanese trading house on the merger-control- and FDI-related aspects of a proposed acquisition of control of a company active in the software sector.
  • Advised a leading Chinese state-owned enterprise on the merger control aspects of two transactions, both involving an extensive multi-jurisdictional review and filings.

Sidley Austin LLP

Sidley Austin LLP provides ‘high-quality advice’ to clients, leveraging its integrated European offering that combines English and Belgian law experience. The practice excels in handling multi-billion dollar, cross border deals, as well as providing strategic guidance in cartel investigations and market studies. The practice is led from the Brussels office by Ken Daly. The dual-qualified (English and Belgian) Patrick Harrison covers UK and EU matters, across merger control, advisory and investigations work. Vincent Brophy‘s recent engagements include big-ticket transactions in insurance and employment sectors. The team has been strengthened by the arrival of counsel Murray Reeve from Slaughter and May.

Practice head(s):

Ken Daly


Other key lawyers:

Patrick Harrison; Vincent Brophy; Rosanna Connolly; Murray Reeve; Monika Zdzieborska


Testimonials

‘High quality advice and client service. Subject matter experts. Consistently great to work with.’

‘Patrick Harrison – impressive, commercial and pragmatic.’

‘Monika Zdzieborska is a strong senior managing associate.’

‘Patrick Harrison is a pleasure to deal with, both professionally and personally. He works well with the clients and runs the meetings with a sure hand.’

Key clients

Mastercard, Inc.


Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.


Magna International Inc.


Regal Rexnord Corporation


Viterra Limited


AT&T, Inc.


IDEX Corporation


Myovant Sciences, Inc.


WatchGuard Technologies, Inc.


Prefere Resins


OMERS Infrastructure Management, Inc. and Wren House


Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. Partners LLP


TowerBrook Capital Partners L.P.


Work highlights


  • Acted for Mastercard in relation to the first ever Competition Act investigation by the UK’s Payment Systems Regulator (“PSR”); and two ongoing parallel market reviews by the PSR in relation to: (a) Mastercard and Visa’s Scheme and Processing Fees; and (b) post-Brexit Interregional Interchange Fees for UK-EU transactions.
  • Advised Regal Rexnord Corporation on merger control and foreign direct investment filings, as well as other antitrust-related aspects, in its $4.95bn acquisition of Altra Industrial Motion Systems (Altra).
  • Acted for Magna in relation to a number of deals, including its $1.5bn acquisition of camera and radar rival, Veoneer.

Stephenson Harwood

Offering a competition service that is well-versed to assist on the full scope of transactional, transactional, behavioural and advisory matters, Stephenson Harwood regularly handles work concerning the financial services and transport sectors. Notably, the practice is highly regarded for its expertise in cartel investigations, providing guidance to clients involved in complex multi-jurisdictional inquiries. The ‘brilliant’ Marta Isabel Garcia leads the team and is highly regarded for her specialised knowledge across the financial services, transport, insurance, retail and healthcare sectors. Managing associate Bryony Roy has particular expertise in cartel investigations, merger control and vertical agreements.

Practice head(s):

Marta Isabel Garcia


Other key lawyers:

Bryony Roy


Testimonials

‘Marta Isabel Garcia is brilliant – commercial, accessible and great to work with.’

 

Key clients

WindAcre Partnership LLC


bd-capital


Abellio UK


Bicycletx


Work highlights


  • Advising Windacre Partners LLP on all antitrust, merger control and foreign direct investment aspects in connection with its proposed $16bn takeover of Nielsen Holdings, the US information, data and market measurement firm.
  • Advising Abellio UK on all merger control and National Security and Investment Act aspects pertaining to the management buyout of Abellio from the Dutch state-owned rail company, Nederlandse Spoorwegen.
  • Advising Bicycletx, a bicycle precision therapeutics company on all antitrust, merger control and FDI aspects of its radiopharmaceuticals deal with Novartis, a global pharmaceutical company worth up to $1.7bn.

Winston & Strawn LLP

Winston & Strawn LLP boasts a capable competition group that possesses the capabilities to advise on complex competition matters for clients spanning the technology, life sciences, manufacturing, insurance, and telecommunications sectors. Praised for his ‘excellent analytic mind’ practice head Peter Crowther is regularly engaged by a number household names who turn to him for his wide-ranging expertise in EU and CMA investigations. Crowther also devises and implements compliance programmes covering areas such as competition, trade, bribery and corruption.

Practice head(s):

Peter Crowther


Testimonials

‘Peter Crowther is one of the best competition lawyers we have worked with. He has an excellent analytical mind and great communication skills to make the most complex legal issues sound easy and manageable in practice.’

‘Peter Crowther is extremely hard working and a creative thinker. He is very experienced in handling challenging CMA investigations.’

‘The team is proactive, thoughtful, attentive and available. Always ready and willing to help, always bringing creative solutions to our legal/competition issues in the EU and UK.’

‘Peter Crowther has been an outstanding advisor and partner to our company. His ability to think creatively, but still through the lens of solutions that make practical and economic sense, is outstanding. He also consistently makes you feel like you are his most important client.’

Key clients

Hitachi Metals Ltd.


XL Catlin


Professional Footballers’ Association


Liberty Specialty Markets


Silgan Holdings, Inc.


Motorola Solutions


Chart Industries


Work highlights


  • Advising Motorola Solutions, Inc. in connection with the CMA’s market investigation of the Airwave network.
  • Advising a worldwide leader in consumer electronics in relation to a complex cartel investigation relating to electronic commodity products.
  • Advising Chart Industries on the merger control aspects of its USD 4.4 billion acquisition of Howden Industries.

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP fields a team that is well-equipped to assist clients on a broad range of competition law matters. The practice possesses specific expertise representing a number of luxury brands in connection with the overhaul of the UK and EU competition rules on vertical agreements. Senior counsel Paul Stone , who has more than 25 years experience, leads the London team.

Practice head(s):

Paul Stone


Testimonials

‘Having worked with the team on EU and competition matters for nearly 15 years, the strength is derived from the understanding that long relationship provides.’

‘Paul Stone remains a “go-to” adviser, not least because of his 100% track record for us.’

Key clients

ITV Plc


Walpole Institute


Gamma Telecom


Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Bahrain (TRA)


YouView


Battery Ventures


Content+Cloud


Caretech Holdings PLC


Meggitt Plc


Work highlights


  • Advised ITV on a broad range of competition matters, including in relation to a wide variety of commercial arrangements such as procurement contracts, supply arrangements, strategic joint ventures, and business acquisitions.
  • Advised Walpole and its members in relation to the revision by the EU Commission of the Vertical Agreements Block Exemption and the new UK block exemption.
  • Acted for Gamma in relation to a broad range of competition law matters, including Ofcom market reviews, regulatory statements, and other competition law investigations.

Cooley (UK) LLP

The 'highly skilled' competition group at Cooley (UK) LLP is well-placed to advise its clients on a range of matters, including merger control, commercial agreements, abuse of dominance and agency investigations. Work in the tech and life sciences sectors forms the cornerstone of the practice, cementing its reputation as a go-to firm for industry giants. Spearheading the team is the 'very experienced' Caroline Hobson who is praised for her ability to provide 'sound, pragmatic and business-oriented advice.' Associate Anna Caro advises clients on the full spectrum of competition law matters, with a particular focus on the tech and healthcare industries.

Practice head(s):

Caroline Hobson


Other key lawyers:

Tom Epps; Christine Graham; Anna Caro


Testimonials

‘The UK Cooley competition team is highly skilled. They are very knowledgeable concerning the CMA activity, responses and potential enforcement activity. The team is very responsive and provide insightful information for the client.’

‘Caroline Hobson is a very experienced competition counsel. She provides sound, pragmatic and business-oriented advice.’

‘Anna Caro is a very good competition counsel. As a former CMA counsel, she has extensive knowledge regarding its work and enforcement capabilities and priorities.’

Key clients

Intersect ENT


Trelleborg AB


Condor Flugdienst GmbH (Condor)


Arena Pharmaceuticals


Turning Point


Insurance Anto


Stratysys


TCGplayer


Apollo Endosurgery


Meredith Corporation


Horizon Therapeutics


Neophotonics


Zoll Medical


ViaCyte


Jazz Pharmaceuticals


Work highlights


  • Advised Intersect ENT, a global ear, nose and throat medical technology company, on the global antitrust aspects of its sale to medical technology company Medtronic in an all-cash transaction valued at $1.1 billion.
  • Advising Trelleborg, a Sweden-based that specialises in engineered polymer solutions, in its divestment of one of the group’s three divisions to Japan-based Yokohama.
  • Providing advice to Condor on a range of antitrust matters.

Mishcon de Reya LLP

The competition group at Mishcon de Reya LLP handles cross-jurisdictional merger control filings and investigations, with a specific focus on the online markets and emerging technologies sectors. Recently, the team has been advising a number of companies in the Electric Vehicles market including providing competition law advice to the International Lithium Association. Practice head Sarah Houghton  is recommended for her experience in contentious and transactional competition matters. Neil Baylis left the firm to join CMS in August 2023.

Practice head(s):

Sarah Houghton


Other key lawyers:

Gwen Ballin-Reeler; Zachery O’Brien


Key clients

Euromoney Institutional Investor


Ladbrokes Limited/Entain


International Lithium Association


Work highlights


  • Advising Euromoney in relation to responding to complaints from Metsa – defending Euromoney from allegations of anti-competitive behaviour.
  • Advised EuroChem Group AG in relation to the proposed acquisition of the Borealis Nitrogen business.
  • Assisting International Flavors & Fragrances in relation to a dawn raid of their premises in Roehampton by the CMA, as part of a co-ordinated approach by the US, Swiss, UK and EU authorities.

Osborne Clarke LLP

Osborne Clarke LLP's competition, antitrust and trade team has a particular focus on tech, retail and life sciences, handling the full gamut of matters, from merger control and compliance to investigations and state aid. Simon Neill leads the UK competition practice and is co-head of the international competition practice.

Practice head(s):

Simon Neill


Other key lawyers:

Joachim Piotrowski; Katherine Kirrage


Testimonials

‘We’ve worked with the Osborne Clarke competition team since 2018. They have a great, methodical approach to analysing situation and context, identifying potential issues, and they have great network of competition law professionals to work on finding solutions.’

‘Simon Neill was great at assembling the right team at short notice and provided the right insights, helping to put the project on the right path from the beginning.’

‘Joachim Piotrowski is attentive to details, and able to provide convincing reasoning, justifying proposed approach or solutions.’

“They were able to provide great advice and guidance – no question the most positive result we could have achieved. Osborne Clarke were the right firm for us.’

‘Katherine Kirrage was our main contact – she was always available and supportive.’

‘Down to earth, efficient and good value.’

Key clients

Yahoo


The Publishers Association


Grifols S.A


Next Fifteen Communications Group plc


Caldwell Manufacturing


Tenzing Private Equity


The British Land Company plc


Danone Group


Compass Group PLC


RM plc


Work highlights


  • Advising Yahoo on the strategy for engaging with both the CMA and the European Commission to influence the shaping of this new area of regulation.
  • Advising the Publishers’ Association (PA), which represents all the major UK publishing houses, on strategic competition law matters.
  • Advising of the Grifols Group across a number of jurisdictions worldwide.

Preiskel & Co LLP

Preiskel & Co LLP is reputed for its specialised knowledge in the technology, media, and telecommunications industries. The team is well placed to assist on behavioural competition matters. Practice head Tim Cowen  is currently representing a number of parties before the CMA, and in relation to the European Commission’s Google investigations.

Practice head(s):

Tim Cowen


Other key lawyers:

Stewart White; Stephen Hornsby; Stephen Dnes; Rachel Machado


Key clients

Movement for an Open Web Limited


London Cremation Company


Connexity Inc


ICOMP


Tobii Dynavox


Hipgnosis Songs Management Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised Movement for an Open Web Limited in respect of a complaint to the CMA and other regulators against Google for abuse of dominance.
  • Advised the London Cremation Company (LCC) in relation to a CMA sector investigation into funerals.
  • Advising Connexity in relation to its High Court Claim for damages against Google.

Shoosmiths LLP

Combining ‘commercial and pragmatic advice’ with a ‘ready willingness to explain the reasoning’, the team at Shoosmiths LLP is well positioned to advise its diverse client roster on day-to-day and strategic competition law issues. Boasting specific expertise in the automotive sector, the team is routinely engaged by household names including Mercedes-Benz, Honda and Nissan-Renault. The practice is led by the ‘highly knowledgeable’ Simon BarnesKiran Desai is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Simon Barnes


Other key lawyers:

Kiran Desai


Testimonials

‘Always on call for commercial and pragmatic advice, coupled with a ready willingness to explain the reasoning behind the advice – makes this practice especially good to deal with. Highly recommended.’

‘Simon Barnes is highly knowledgeable in competition law, and can apply his skills to novel scenarios. He’s always eager to learn about our business, which enables him to hone his advice. At the same time he is approachable and always explains his reasoning, which is helpful to me as a client as I then learn more. Highly recommended.’

‘The team is flexible and down to earth. They give no-nonsence advice. Their newsletter is very helpful.’

‘Simon Barnes is on top of his game. He has specific industry knowledge in motor vehicles.’

Key clients

Mercedes-Benz


Honda


Scania


BAT


Ageas


Asahi


Ducati


Stellantis


Mattel


Shuttercraft Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised Mercedes-Benz on the launch of its new agency model for the supply of new cars in the UK.
  • Supporting Shuttercraft Limited on the CMA’s Phase 1 merger control review of its proposed acquisition by Mzuri Group.
  • Acting for a major automotive OEM on the CMA’s ongoing investigation into suspected anti-competitive conduct in relation to the recycling of end-of-life vehicles.

Stevens & Bolton LLP

The team at Guildford's Stevens & Bolton LLP is praised as ‘responsive, very knowledgeable and easy to work with.’ The practice is well placed to assist clients on a range of competition matters ranging from merger control and competition law investigations to state aid law, representing clients across the retail, technology and life sciences sectors. Practice head Gustaf Duhs acts for a range of clients, from global corporates to owner-managed businesses. The team has been strengthened by the arrival of associate Jeremy Kelly.

Practice head(s):

Gustaf Duhs


Other key lawyers:

Jeremy Kelly


Testimonials

‘We have been working with Stevens & Bolton on merger control and FDI projects. The team is very responsive, very knowledgeable and easy to work with.’

‘I have been regularly working with Gustaf Duhs and I would always involve him for future projects.’

Key clients

Blatchford Ltd


British Generic Manufacturers Association (BGMA)


DER Touristik UK Ltd/Kuoni


Kia Motors UK


Loftware Inc


SecurMed UK Ltd


Sysco/Brake Bros Ltd


Techtronic Industries EMEA Ltd


VX Fiber Ltd


Zernin Trade SL (of Miura Partners)


Work highlights


  • Advising a global software company on merger control and National Security and Investment Act filings related to a corporate acquisition.
  • Advising a world leading equipment manufacturer on distribution arrangements including selective distribution in the UK and EU.
  • Advising on national and international competition investigations including in the life sciences, FMCG and insurance sectors.

Taylor Wessing LLP

A litany of blue-chip corporate clients turn to the competition group at Taylor Wessing LLP for its expertise in handling multi-jurisdictional merger control matters. Team lead Paolo Palmigiano, a dual-qualified (English and Italian) practitioner, is noted for his experience advising clients in regulators sectors such as telecommunications and media, financial services, technology and life sciences sectors.

Practice head(s):

Paolo Palmigiano


Other key lawyers:

Louisa Penny


Key clients

The Office Group


Watson Farley & Williams LLP

Praised for its ‘high quality service, deep industrial knowledge and very pleasant cooperation’, the competition group at Watson Farley & Williams LLP has particular expertise in the transport sector, providing cutting-edge advice on EU competition law, regulations, international policy and trade rules in the maritime. Practice head Solange Leandro advises on a broad range of aviation, maritime and energy clients on EU and UK competition and regulatory issues.

Practice head(s):

Solange Leandro


Other key lawyers:

Philippe Ruttley; Lauren Buchan; Daisy East; Simon Kavanagh


Testimonials

‘High quality service, deep industrial knowledge and very pleasant cooperation.’

‘Daisy East and Solange Leandro – highly committed to bringing results, with a practical approach and impressive experience.’

‘WFW are one of the stand out firms in shipping and oil and gas litigation.’

‘I have worked with Solange Leandro for a long time on competition matters in the shipping area. She is bright, efficient and always brings something new to the table – a pleasure to work with.’

‘I have worked more recently with Simon Kavanagh on sanction matters – he is extremely bright and always keen to explore every possibility in this fast-growing area. and he is also a pleasure to work with.’

‘Watson Farley & Williams reveals a deep technical and practical knowledge of the aviation industry and competition issues. In my view, what makes this team unique is the attitude towards the client, specifically the will to help the client solve its problems, giving the client the necessary and relevant tools to deal with the same.’

‘We have worked with Solange Leandro in various matters and I would strongly recommend Solange to potential clients in all EU and competition matters.’

‘Solange Leandro is highly professional, dedicated and available to her clients and has various skills that allow me to qualify her as one of the best lawyers in the areas where she works.’