Rising Stars

Firms To Watch: EU and competition

Founded in 2021 by Manish BahlBahl, Beck & Co. brings together expertise in litigation, competition and antitrust matters, with a strong commercial focus, and often represents transacting parties, as well as engaging with relevant regulators.
Greenberg Traurig LLP has strengthened its competition team, led by Hans Urlus, over recent years, including through the hire of Robert Hardy from Simmons & Simmons; Hardy is experienced in antitrust litigation, regulation and international trade, and bolsters the firm’s expertise in vertical competition issues.

EU and competition in Netherlands

Allen & Overy LLP

Allen & Overy LLP’s competition team has an active domestic Dutch practice in addition to strong EU capabilities and regularly advises on major cartel and merger control cases before the ACM, and large-scale European Commission investigations, particularly relating to consumer protection. The firm’s broad geographical footprint allows it to handle matters with an international dimension across jurisdictions such as the US, the UK and key EU countries. The team has a particular focus on retail, energy and telecoms, while also leveraging wider cross-practice expertise in financial regulation to offer clients strategic advice across highly regulated sectors. The practice is led by Kees Schillemans, who has extensive experience in cartel and merger control proceedings and regularly represents clients before competition and regulatory authorities.

Practice head(s):

Kees Schillemans


Testimonials

‘‘Strong commitment to the case, excellent availability and in-depth knowledge both on the case as the relevant legal basis and case law.’

‘Strong, skilled team. Not the largest, but highly regarded, in particular in the industry. Good mix of competition and regulatory. Hands-on and pragmatic.’

‘Kees Schillemans – top notch competition counsel, very business oriented and pragmatic. Strong experience in Telco.’

Key clients

KLM


KPN


Booking.com


Aegon


PostNL


Sanoma Learning


Pon Holdings


Leaseplan


Renewi


RTL Nederland


Samsung Electronics


Cargill


ZuivelNL


Roompot/KKR


Ter Beke


De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek

The multidisciplinary team at De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek has vast expertise covering international competition litigation, including significant follow-on damages litigation, anti-competition and fraud investigations, and state aid, spearheaded by practice head Jolling de Pree. The firm also has experience in merger control, competition, consumer law and data protection as well as foreign direct investment, leveraging its multi-jurisdictional capacity across the EU. Bart de Rijke is a key individual in merger control and has experience in investigations, with a particular focus on technology-driven sectors. Helen Gornall specialises in merger control, cartels, dominance and vertical restraints, with robust experience in digital markets. Stephanie The specialises in EU and Dutch competition law and regulation, with a focus on representing multinationals before the EC and ACM.

Practice head(s):

Jolling de Pree


Other key lawyers:

Bart de Rijke; Helen Gornall; Stephanie The; Machteld de Monchy


Testimonials

‘Very pragmatic and efficient team of competition law experts.’

‘Business savvy; smart; out of the box thinkers; great network; accessible.’

‘Bart de Rijke is very pragmatic, efficient team player with deep domain knowledge in the Healthcare and Technology industry.’

‘The competition team of De Brauw is a fantastically oiled machine. They made the whole process seem easy. When it comes to large projects, there is no other firm in the Netherlands which can match De Brauw’s competition team’s firepower.’

‘Machteld de Monchy is a stellar litigator: she is very bright, a great strategic thinker and always clear in her advice. She is tenacious, extremely client-focused and great to deal with.’

‘Jolling de Pree brings a wealth of experience to bear on his extensive competition practice. He is insightful, strategic and very good at seeing the big picture.’

‘Bart de Rijke is a highly intelligent and structured lawyer, who never appears to lose his calm. He is very accessible, smart as a whip and a lot of fun to work with.’

‘A very international team with excellent experience in big ticket competition investigations and disputes.’

Key clients

AkzoNobel


AholdDelhaize


Just Eat Takeaway.com


Booking.com


ASML


Philips


PACCAR/DAF Trucks


Royal DSM


SHV Group / Nutreco


NN Group


Parcom


Celanese


PON Holdings B.V.


N.V. Nederlandse Gasunie


EQT Partners


Stonepeak Infrastructure Partners


Work highlights


  • Representing GrandVision in the global merger filings and remedies processes concerning the acquisition by EssilorLuxottica of HAL Investments’ 76.72% interest in GrandVision.
  • Advised Intertrust on all aspects of its sale process to move from public to private ownership.
  • Appointed by PACCAR/DAF to act as lead counsel in the follow-on litigation arising from fines totalling €2.93bn imposed on five truck manufacturers, including DAF Trucks.

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has a focus on merger control procedures, both in a domestic and international context, as well as competition litigation and follow-on damages claims. The firm is also active in state aid related matters, including acting for US consumer tech companies in investigations led by the EC, and cartel investigations, advising financial institutions. The practice is led by Winfred Knibbeler, a heavyweight in merger control and antitrust investigations and litigation, and Paul van den Berg, who has notable expertise in domestic ACM phase II investigations. Onno Brouwer, based predominantly in Brussels, advises in relation to litigation before EU courts regarding EC competition decisions and damages claims.

Practice head(s):

Winfred Knibbeler; Paul van den Berg


Other key lawyers:

Onno Brouwer


Testimonials

‘Team spirit is great. The whole team is very engaged. They are actually really interested in our sector and try to match excellent knowledge from legislation to our practice.’

‘Engagement is very high. Excellent knowledge of legislation, but the main difference is how that they do not search for possible impossibilities, but to find solutions where problems could occur.’

‘The team led by Winfred Knibbeler brings a wealth of knowledge to the table and has developed an excellent understanding of our business, organisation, the industry/sector and external environment in which we operate. This combination makes them the trusted partner to go to. Also the international network opportunities and synergies of a true Global firm brings a lot of benefit to our Company.’

Key clients

ABB Group


AB InBev


Airbnb


APG


Atlas Copco


APG


Ardian Group


Blackstone


British Columbia Investment Management Corporation (BCIMC)


Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB)


Flutter


General Atlantic


Infinitas / Noordhoff


Nederlandse Vereniging van Makelaars (NVM)


PGGM


Thai Airways


ThyssenKrupp


UPS


Van Drie Group


VodafoneZiggo and Liberty Global


Volkswagen


Work highlights


  • Advising Talpa Holding in relation to its proposed merger with rival commercial broadcaster RTL Netherlands, which is subject to an ongoing Phase II investigation by the ACM.
  • Advising veal producer Van Drie in relation to the acquisition of Van Dam, resulting in a Phase II investigation by the ACM and unconditional clearance.
  • Advising Warburg Pincus on the €5.1bn acquisition of Deutsche Telekom’s subsidiary T-Mobile Netherlands.

Stibbe

Recognised for its cartel and abuse of dominance expertise, Stibbe is active in follow-on damages litigation, often advising defendants against claims, as well as ACM investigations and subsequent appeals. For example, the firm is advising Apple on ACM’s abuse of domination findings and Credit Suisse on its appeal against the high-profile EC FX trading decision. The firm also has a strong merger control practice. Practice head Rein Wesseling is regarded as ‘one of the finest competition litigators in Europe’ and focuses on merger control as well as litigation matters. Christof Swaak and Floris ten Have have both left the firm.

Practice head(s):

Rein Wesseling


Other key lawyers:

Frederick Brouwer


Testimonials

‘Stibbe has one of Europe’s premier competition teams. They have deep and unparalleled knowledge of the law, the agencies, and the courts, and they approach matters creatively in their tireless and devoted representation of clients. Stibbe has the perfect combination of erudition coupled with pragmatic, client-oriented advice.’

‘Rein Wesseling stands out as one of the finest competition litigators in Europe. His command of the law and strategic thinking in approaching appeals is masterful.’

‘Frederick Brouwer is a rising star in the competition bar.’

Work highlights


  • Representing Apple before the ACM and before Dutch Courts in connection to alleged abuse of dominance concerning the conditions for categories of app developers to sell online content via the Apple App Store.
  • Advising Credit Suisse on the appeals before the EU General Court against the cartel decision from the European Commission regarding the foreign exchange (FX) markets.
  • Assisting British American Tobacco in its appeal against the Dutch Competition Authority’s cartel decision concerning the tobacco industry in which the ACM imposed fines totaling more than €82m on four major cigarette manufacturers.

Brinkhof

Brinkhof stands out for its expertise in the media, technology and telecoms sectors, thanks in large part to the knowledge of practice heads Pepijn van Ginneken and Quinten Kroes. The team regularly advises global tech and TMT companies on cartel damages claims and investigations into allegations of abuse of dominance, before both Dutch and EU courts and competition authorities. It is regularly instructed by claimants in both standalone and follow-on damages litigation, including acting for Heineken in the high-profile trucks cartel follow-on litigation. The firm is also active in ACM investigations and is often a point of contact for international firms, particularly US-based, acting for multinational companies.

Practice head(s):

Pepijn van Ginneken; Quinten Kroes


Other key lawyers:

Boukje van der Maazen; Hanneke Kooijman


Testimonials

‘Strengths – clear, concise advice, especially for overseas clients. Complex litigation a real specialty. Collaboration with UK counsel has been seamless.’

‘Pepijn van Ginneken – Calm, measured approach; extremely client friendly with a good sense of humour. On top of all issues, very ably assisted by Boukje van der Maazen.’

‘Brinkhof’s EU competition practice is very approachable and always able to deliver.’

‘Hanneke Kooijman is a rising star within the ranks of Brinkhof’s EU and competition practice.’

‘Great attention to detail. Solid competition litigation experience.’

‘Pepijn van Ginneken has real in-depth expertise of private damages litigation before the Dutch courts.’

‘This team are really very good. They are technically proficient, likeable, timely… and have the directness of Dutch people, which is quite helpful in litigation: Pepijn is definitely not a “fence sitter”. A very modern practice.’

‘We have worked with Pepijn van Ginneken for a couple of years and we have found him to be trustworthy. He has a lot of knowledge on competition law in our industry. His advice matches our needs and wishes seamlessly.’

Key clients

Heineken


Mosadex


Wadinko


Ikea


Toshiba


FD Mediagroep


Eurofiber


Crédit Agricole


Global Steel Wire


Google


NFA


Diageo


Vestel


AB Inbev


Adrestia


VCR (Dutch Association of Commercial Radio Broadcasters)


DeltaMilk


Expedia


Glasdraad


NFZ


FedEx


Work highlights


  • Representing Vestel in FRAND determination proceedings against the members of an international patent pool concerning standard essential patents on video coding, based on abuse of dominance and the infringement of the cartel prohibition.
  • Representing a number of worldwide brewery groups (among them Heineken) and other large companies in international follow-on damages litigation resulting from the trucks cartel.
  • Assisting Mosadex in an EC merger notification following its announced joint venture with Ace in which the Commission redefined the market and allowed the merger to go ahead.

Houthoff

With a broad EU and competition practice covering merger control procedures, cartel investigations and defence, state aid and FDI, Houthoff is often involved in an array of matters for major clients, such as Volvo/Renault, TotalEnergies ad Singapore Airlines, particularly as defence counsel in the increasing number of private enforcement cases in follow-on damages from cartel or abuse of dominance findings. The practice is led by Weyer VerLoren van Themaat, who specialises in cartel defence litigation and merger control work, acting predominantly for international clients. Rick Cornelissen, an expert in competition and commercial litigation, has a focus on private enforcement and vertical restraints.

Practice head(s):

Weyer VerLoren van Themaat


Other key lawyers:

Rick Cornelissen; Gerrit Oosterhuis; Greetje van Heezik; Eline Groen


Testimonials

‘Houthoff can handle all kind of cases with an exceptionally high level of quality.’

‘Gerrit Oosterhuis and Weyer VerLoren Van Themaat are experienced and outstanding antitrust lawers, highly specialised, quick thinking and pragmatic.’

‘The strength of the team lies in the fact they are knowledgeable about the transport sector and are therefore able to give practical advice.’

Key clients

LG Electronics


Singapore Airlines


TotalEnergies


Volvo Trucks / Renault Trucks


EY


Imperial Brands


Nexans S.A.


Bergman Clinics


Aramis Consortium: Shell, TotalEnergies, EBN and Gasunie


Porthos Group


Equipe Zorgbedrijven


Work highlights


  • Advises and represents LG Electronics in its defence against several cartel damages claims from Turkish and Brazilian purchasers of cathode ray tubes.
  • Representing Singapore Airlines in numerous Dutch private enforcement proceedings before Amsterdam and EU Courts following the EC Decision in the air cargo case.
  • Advising TotalEnergies on cartel damages proceedings initiated by the State of the Netherlands after the cartel damages proceedings initiated by the Van Gelder Group against Shell Nederland Verkoopmaatschappij and Kuwait Petroleum (Nederland) were withdrawn.

Loyens & Loeff

Within its competition practice, Loyens & Loeff has a strong sector focus on life sciences, healthcare, food and digital technology, and has particular strength in merger control cases, including phase II investigations conducted by the ACM, as well as EC notification matters. The digital focus of the firm has strengthened its credentials when advising large international technology companies, particularly in relation to abuse of dominance cases and competition litigation. The practice is led by seasoned competition practitioners Marc Wiggers, Gert-Wim van de Meent and counsel Marc Custers.

Practice head(s):

Marc Wiggers; Gert-Wim van de Meent; Marc Custers


Other key lawyers:

Robert Fröger; Boyd Wolffers


Testimonials

‘Marc Wiggers and Gert-Wim van der Meent are exceptionally good and provide first class service. Combined with their in-depth knowledge of our sector (media), it is a great pleasure to work with them.’

‘Loyens & Loeff has one of the leading competition practices in the Netherlands. It runs a one-stop-shop where both general regulatory affairs are being handled as well as specific health-care related cases. The team is not only very knowledgeable, they also stand out for their responsiveness and pragmatic approach. Because of their in-depth expertise, they are often able to go the extra mile and to efficiently cut through complex matters.’

‘Marc Wiggers combines a pragmatic, no-nonsense approach with great expertise of competition and healthcare related matters. Although Marc can fall back on his in-depth, second to none knowledge of competition law in the context of the health-care sector, he never fails to keep the relevant commercial objectives in sight and to ensure an efficient, effective procedure.’

‘Robert Fröger is extremely responsive and knowledgeable. Robert is capable of comprehending highly complicated affairs in a very limited amount of time, and, subsequently, provides tailor-made solutions in a concise and clear manner to the best interests of his clients, not only from a legal perspective but also from a business-perspective.’

‘Boyd Wolffers is a great litigator. He gets to the heart of the matter quickly and knows how to present complex legal issues in a concise and clear manner. Boyd is creative and thinks out of the box. He is confident and very convincing in the courtroom.’

Key clients

Vesa


Banco Santander


HSF Logistics Group


Zilveren Kruis (Achmea)


BNP Paribas


Medtronic


Phoenix/Brocacef


DPG Media


bol.com (Ahold-Delhaize)


MSD


Lekkerland


Neptune Energy


Sun Chemical


3i


Amlon


Rendac/Darling Ingredients


Orpea


Stichting Verenigde Nederlandse Apotheken


Cabooter Rail Cargo


DIF


Nederlandse Spoorwegen


CZ


ACTA*/Kiwa


TEVA


Hendrix Genetics


Blackstone


Rabo Capital


AAC


Coolblue


ABN AMRO Participaties


AlpInvest


Egeria


Gilde


Nimbus


NPM Capital


Active Capital Compan


Standard Investment


Espria


CleanLease


KNMT


AEGON


Aon


Zorgverzekeraars Nederland


BMI Group/Monier


De Hoop Terneuzen


Van Nieuwpoort Groep


PLUS Retail


VGZ


Menzis


Orpea


Equinor


InterXion


Vivat


Alliander


Torqx


Superunie


Sai Global


Westmont Hospitality


AXA Real Estate


Klöckner


Wessanen


Yara


Carlyle


Novartis


Cytek


Aurora


Sensire


Work highlights


  • Acting on behalf of Vesa in several jurisdictional consultations to file before the EC asking for guidance on the possibility for a minority shareholder to acquire de facto sole control, in line with the Commission’s observations in paragraph 59 of the Consolidated Jurisdictional Notice, in Dutch listed company PostNL.
  • Counselling bol.com in various high-profile matters including on several aspects relating to the proposed IPO for bol.com.
  • Instructed to assist Next Estate Income Fund III SCS Sicav in a merger notification to the EC for a contemplated investment in a Belgian company.

NautaDutilh

NautaDutilh has a strong competition practice with a particular focus on litigation and merger control cases; the team is active in merger notifications, particularly those involving private equity, aviation and international companies, with notable expertise in phase II investigations conducted by the ACM. The firm also advises on state aid, acting for Dutch public bodies such as the Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Economic Affairs, with a focus on the Russia/Ukraine conflict and energy sources. The competition team is headed by Mauricette Schaufeli, who specialises in merger control, antitrust and state aid, together with Nima Lorjé, who focuses on cartel procedures, merger control and antitrust matters. Follow-on antitrust litigation advice is provided in close cooperation with litigation partner Philip Malanczuk.

Practice head(s):

Mauricette Schaufeli


Other key lawyers:

Nima Lorjé; Philip Malanczuk


Testimonials

‘NautaDutilh is inter alia known for its work in the area of competition litigation. It acts for claim vehicles but also defendants.’

‘Mauricette Schaufeli is a great lawyer. She is building a strong team.’

‘We know Nima Lorjé as as a hard worker and feel sure that he will be a success at NautaDutilh.’

‘Nauta has a solid competition practice. They are able to handle merger control cases with the Dutch Competition Authority (ACM) in an efficient manner. They are also involved in competition litigation.’

‘Nima Lorjé is pragmatic and business-oriented. He provides sound advice in merger control matters.’

Key clients

Lufthansa


HAL Investments


Technicolor


CVC Capital Partners / TMF


Dutch Ministry of Finance


Nobian and Nouryon


Plus


SHV, including NPM


Lineage Logistics


Accell


Campofrio


Work highlights


  • Representing Deutsche Lufthansa, Lufthansa Cargo and SWISS International Air Lines in multiple, complex follow-on cartel damages proceedings before the Dutch courts.
  • Assisted HAL Investments in the highly complex competition law matters related to the sale of its subsidiary GrandVision, a global optical retailer, operating in more than 40 different countries with shares listed on Euronext Amsterdam.
  • Successfully advised PLUS on the merger with COOP in the merger control proceedings before the Dutch Competition Authority.

Pels Rijcken & Droogleever Fortuijn NV

Renowned for its representation of the Dutch state, Pels Rijcken & Droogleever Fortuijn NV is regularly involved in competition proceedings, particularly in relation to state aid, as well as acting as outside counsel to the ACM, the Dutch Central Bank and city authorities of Amsterdam and Rotterdam. The firm is well positioned to assist clients ‘at the intersection of private and public law’, advising on merger filings, and acting as defence counsel in cartel damages cases. Jotte Mulder recently joined the firm as an associate from the ACM, where he was a principal litigator, experienced across competition law matters. The practice is led by Erik Pijnacker Hordijk, a recognised specialist in merger control, cartels and abuse of dominance cases at both a domestic and international level.


Practice head(s):

Erik Pijnacker Hordijk


Other key lawyers:

Sebastiaan Cnossen; Jotte Mulder; George Dictus


Testimonials

‘Pels Rijcken is a full service practice, specialised in advising and litigating on behalf of the government.’

‘What makes the Pels Rijcken practice unique is that their expertise extends to all areas that are important for the high legal risk political fields in which their advice is needed. The team is always ready to go, friendly and to the point, even in situations where that is almost impossible. A unique character is that they approach issues from different angles, sketching scenarios with different risk factors, always keeping the client in full focus.’

‘Pels works in various areas of law. If you work as a client at the intersection of private law and public law, than Pels is excellent choice. They have a lot of lawyers , so there is always somebody who can help you quickly.’

‘The individual lawyers all have superior knowledge in their respective areas of expertise. George Dictus stands out for his knowledge of state aid law.’

‘Extensive knowledge of government policy and position. Quick to assess problems and inventive in solutions. Good communication and transfer within the team which means substitution is easy when needed.’

‘Special thanks go out to Sebastiaan Cnossen for his excellent legal judgement and solutions. What makes the lawyers of Pels stand out is that they understand the playing field beyond the legal parameters that define it legally. The lawyers are capable to internalise the day to day issues that we have to deal with making their advice applicable.’

Key clients

Dutch State


Royal FloraHolland


Scandinavian Airlines


ArcelorMittal


Mercedes-Benz Group AG


Royal Cosun


City of Amsterdam


City of Rotterdam


EPS


Dutch Competition Authority (ACM)


Dutch Emissions Authority


Het Kadaster


Province of Gelderland


DNB (Dutch Central Bank)


Work highlights


  • Representing Mercedes-Benz Group in all pending damages actions before Dutch courts in connection with the decision of the EU Commission of 19 July 2016 regarding the trucks cartel case.
  • Represented the Dutch competition authority in appeal of a second phase merger decision against a publisher of schoolbooks and a distributor of educational material.
  • Successfully represented Royal FloraHolland during the second phase investigations by the ACM into the market position and possible conglomerate effects of the notified acquisition of a number of transport companies.

Stek

Stek’s competition and regulated markets practice is comprised of competition specialists, led by Ruben Elkerbout and Berend Reuder, and regulated markets experts, led by Jan Erik Janssen. The practice is noted for its strong litigation capacity, as well as its focus on digital investigations in cartels and consumer protection. The firm also operates within a range of highly regulated sectors, including healthcare, technology, agrifood, transport and energy, and is involved in a variety of cartel cases, including dawn raids, defence and claimant work and leniency applications, as well as merger control cases, including second phase merger notifications, often involving a cross-border element.

Practice head(s):

Ruben Elkerbout; Berend Reuder; Jan Erik Janssen


Other key lawyers:

Linde Bremmer; Mattijs Baneke


Testimonials

‘The team is well able to think quickly and innovative. The team has a clear focus and sticks to its strengths. The team is able to help shape the system of the future.’

‘An exceptional mix of young talents and well established power houses. Value for money. I would recommend this team blindly to anybody looking for competition law support.’

‘Ruben Elkerbout is an exceptionally strong lawyer and communicator. His deep business understanding combined with his topnotch legal expertise allows him to provide advice which is sharp, to the point which boards truly appreciate. Amazing to see the passion of Ruben Elkerbout for his métier. If you want the best support in the field of competition law, Ruben is your man.’

‘Linde Bremmer is an enthusiastic young lawyer and thinker. She is open, honest and well able to constructively communicate on all levels of the organisation.’

‘An amazing team with a broad legal view of the energy sector. They’re always on stand-by to support our company with sharpening the legal strategy and argumentation.’

‘Berend Reuder and Mattijs Baneke both have excellent analytical skills and the ability to solve problems via a results-oriented approach.’

‘The most important thing is the people themselves. The personal pleasant contact with us as a client, their expertise in their field, their speed and flexibility, their ability to collaborate with other offices.’

‘Their knowledge in their field was of course essential, but so was the way of working together. Very light-hearted/normal, yet very professional.’

Key clients

Coolblue


Samsung SDI


Corendon


easyJet


Calcasa


Netbeheer Nederland


Enexis


Nestlé


PVH


L’Oréal


Work highlights


  • Advising Samsung on follow-on damages proceedings related to the 2014 European Commission’s fine in the cathode ray tubes (CRT) cartel.
  • Advised Netbeheer Nederland and regional energy network companies Alliander, Stedin and Enexis on (potential) competition law matters in relation to sustainability initiatives.
  • Advising grid operator Enexis on the sale of Fudura to pension and investment funds PGGM and DIF, including a merger control procedure before the European Commission.

Van Doorne

Van Doorne offers a wide range of services covering both EU and domestic competition law, including competition litigation. The firm is well versed in foreign direct investment reviews and frequently advises on both EU and Dutch matters. The team has also adopted a focus on sustainability in relation to competition policy aligning with the trajectory adopted by Dutch competition authorities. The team, led by Sarah Beeston and Gijs Verberne, is engaged in several active ACM investigations. Senior associate Nina Korstenbroek is notable for her work in M&A transactions and cases relating to vertical restraints restrictions.

Practice head(s):

Sarah Beeston; Gijs Verberne


Testimonials

‘Very strong and diversified team under the excellent leadership of Sarah Beeston. They combine a very thorough legal analysis with a hands-on approach and are very nice to work with.’

‘We work in particular with Sarah Beeston and Nina Korstenbroek. They form an incredibly strong team, always available and excellent, very thorough and efficient work.’

‘Great and broad knowledge of the field. Seeing all sides of the issue. Thinking and working with the commercial people, but keeping the legal mind in check.’

‘Sarah Beeston understands the people and the issues. Gets to the point quickly, knows her way around the board room and has deep knowledge of this field of law and experience in litigation, negotiations and advice.’

‘Very professional, clear and timely communication.’

‘Easy to reach. Excellent training possibilities for legal counsels. Very flexible when it comes to deadlines etc. All relevant knowledge in house.’

‘Sarah Beeston: very approachable, tons of experience in the field of European competition and state aid law.’

‘Pim Jansen: very practical. A lot of knowledge when it comes to case law etc. in the field of European competition law and state aid law.’

Key clients

King Street Capital Management


CPTF Optronics (Chunghwa)


Nimbus


Port of Rotterdam


NL Mental Care


Jungheinrich


Dutch Ophthalmic Research Center


NPM Capital


Stern


Dutch Tax Authority


Gilde Healthcare Partners


Casio Benelux B.V.


Volkswagen PON Financial Services


National Social Housing Guarantee Fund Foundation (WSW)


EasyPark


Hornbach


Mediq


AbbVie


ROTO


Work highlights


  • Advised King Street Capital Management on the litigation risks of a potential investment in specific cartel litigation, taking account of the laws of the various jurisdictions involved.
  • Successfully defended a (former) portfolio company of Nimbus by a claim by a former parent seeking redress for an ACM fine imposed on it in its capacity as controlling parent.
  • Advising the Port of Rotterdam on complex state aid and competition law questions which arise in relation to its commitment to sustainability projects.

Baker McKenzie

Baker McKenzie effectively leverages its international network to offer clients comprehensive advice relating to EU competition law. The team has unique experience dealing with sanctions, specifically EU sanctions related to Russia, and is active in ACM investigations as well as merger control proceedings and Dutch foreign direct investment regimes. The firm is particularly active in litigation proceedings, with Frank Kroes, a competition-related litigation expert, leading the practice following Christiaan van der Meer‘s departure. The team regularly acts for clients facing ACM cartel and competition infringement decisions and antitrust proceedings across multiple jurisdictions.

Practice head(s):

Frank Kroes


Other key lawyers:

Derk Christiaans; Christian van der Meer


Testimonials

‘Attention for the client. High level of expertise. Deep understanding of client business. Prompt replies. Willingness to go further than expected. One stop shop. Experts from different countries providing advice according to their own applicable laws (UK, US and EU).’

‘We receive clear, concise and fast advice that is straight forward and related to the business – not too much legal language but concrete solutions to the issues. It is exactly what we need and what we ask for.’

‘Our contacts at Baker McKenzie Netherlands have excellent communication skills and excellent knowledge of both EU and international legislation that affects the pharmaceutical sector. They are very strong in analysing the impact on our business in case of change. Have excellent communication skills to translate often complex legislation into clear guidelines and actions for our company.’

Key clients

Abbott


Accenture


APG


Daimler


Hitachi


IDEXX


Mitsubishi


Merck


Royal De Heus


Schneider Electric


Shell


Work highlights


  • Represented Royal De Heus in merger control proceedings before the ACM related to the acquisition of sole control by De Heus over Coppens, securing unconditional phase I clearance.
  • Representing Shell in follow-on litigation proceedings following a competition infringement decision by the European Commission in relation to the Dutch market for road bitumen.
  • Represented APG in appeal proceedings brought by T-Mobile against a clearance decision issued by the ACM related to the establishment of a joint venture with KPN.

Banning NV

With a focus on the automotive industry, Banning NV regularly represents large car brands, dealers and manufacturers, and has been assisting clients in allegations stemming from the ‘dieselgate’ compensation claims. The firm is also active in vertical agreements, specialising in distribution, agency and franchise agreements, and has experience in cartel litigation in relation to the ACM. The competition and regulatory team is led by Minos van Joolingen, a seasoned practitioner with experience in cartel cases and follow-on damages claims, who has a notable specialism in the automobile industry, bolstering the firm’s wider specialism in this sector.

Practice head(s):

Minos van Joolingen


Testimonials

‘Practical, pragmatic and down-to-earth expert advice.’

‘Minos van Joolingen is easy going, down to earth and able to easily translate difficult concepts in an understandable way to be easily shared with the rest of the business (non-legal stakeholders). He is a quick thinker, with a good business / commercial sense, easy to reach, extremely responsive and client focused.’

‘The firm has the knowledge and expertise of the larger ‘zuidas’ law firms, and also has the culture of the smaller regional law firms. The communication lines are very short. The team is very well familiar in the automotive industry and is a leading authority for automotive dealer groups and dealer associations. Their knowledge of competition law in the automotive retail business is exceptional.’

‘Especially for their expertise and their availability. There is a no nonsense culture and flexibility. There is room for criticism and they adapt strongly to the changing demands of clients. The service level is high.’

‘Very enthusiastic team of lawyers. Nothing is too much and they are always ready to answer complex issues correctly and completely. Banning Advocaten has more than sufficient expertise in various areas. The rates are reasonable and fair.’

‘Minos van Joolingen is an extremely amiable man, with a good sense of humour. Minos will assist you day and night if necessary to bring the cases to a successful conclusion.’

‘Banning is a specialist in EU and competition and in particular in automotive. Since the current topics could have major consequences for our sector it is valuable to know we will be supported by the Banning team.’

Key clients

European Dealer council (Audi Volkswagen Seat Skoda)


Dealer council Audi Volkswagen Seat Skoda


Dealer council Citröen / DS


Dealer council Peugeot


Dealer council Opel


Dealer council Faldon (Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Jeep)


BOVAG trade association automotive industry


Belron Netherlands


Vespa Piaggio


Zero Motorcycles


Electrolux


AGC


DHL


Hunkemöller International


Ricoh group


McCain


Perfetti van Melle


Brand Loyalty


Heras


Udea / Ekoplaza


Van Wijnen group


Agrifirm


BMN (Bouwmaterialen Nederland)


Vogel’s Holding


Amacom


Work highlights


  • Advising the Opel dealer organisation (known as VODN) and the Peugeot/Citroën dealer organisation (known as VGPCN) and more than 130 dealers in relation to the allegations brought by Stichting Diesel Emissions Justice and Stichting Car.
  • Advises Fiat, Alfa-Romeo and Lancia Dealer Organisation Nederland (known as FALDON) and its 67 member dealers in relation to the allegations brought by Stichting Diesel Emissions Justice towards the FCA manufacturers, importers and dealers.
  • Advising DHL on the proposed acquisition by Dutch postal company PostNL of its competitor Sandd, including the authority’s blocking, government’s deblocking and currently court appeals proceedings.

BarentsKrans

Handling both contentious and non-contentious elements of competition law, BarentsKrans stands out for its work in litigation on behalf of plaintiffs in follow-on cartel damages cases, advising national and international companies and potential funders of the claims. The firm has experience in ACM investigations, particularly relating to the furniture and construction industries, and operates with a focus on procurement, acting on behalf of tenderers and multinationals in Supreme Court litigation relating to competition law. The practice is led by Joost Fanoy.

Practice head(s):

Joost Fanoy


Other key lawyers:

Karlijn de Groes; Tim Raats


Testimonials

‘Partner availability, high quality of work, value for money.’

‘Joost Fanoy and Karlijn de Groes are a great team. Very knowledgeable and hands-on. Joost has a wealth of legal knowledge and experience as well as a deep understanding of the legal landscape of our business. He is also very good in translating complex legal issues into simple terms. Joost is a true business partner for us as a company.’

‘Tim Raats listens well and quickly understands what an issue is about. He also has a good understanding of our company’s attitude towards risk, providing advice along those lines.’

Key clients

Global (The Media & Entertainment Group)


Porthos Project


Visma Connect


Selecta


EBS


KPMG


Dura Vermeer


Macedonian Thrace Brewery


BMW


BMW Financial Services


Finco Fuel


Claims Funding Europe


Canon


Heutink


Oshkosh Defense


Albron


BCD Travel


Dell


Jeugdformaat


GGZ Noord-Holland-Noord


Pure Development & Wayland Real Estate


Stichting Sint Antonius Ziekenhuis


Stichting Elevator Cartel Claim


Work highlights


  • Acting for Macedonian Thrace Brewery in its abuse of dominance-related damages action against Heineken and its subsidiary Athenian Brewery.
  • Representing one of the largest claimants groups in the trucks cartel damages litigation on behalf of Claims Funding Europe and Grant & Eisenhofer.
  • Assisted Groupe Sterne, a European logistics services company, in its acquisition of Nox, a specialised logistics service provider with a specialism in overnight express services.

Bird & Bird

Bird & Bird maintains a strong focus in TMT, and regularly advises clients in these fields on investigations, leniency applications, public enforcement and sanction inquiries, while also litigating in damages cases before both domestic and EU courts. The practice, led by Pauline Kuipers, also advises on dawn raids and digital data investigations. Kuipers, with a TMT focus, specialises in cartel procedures, abuse of dominance matters and merger notifications to the ACM and the EC. Janneke Kohlen also specialises in competition law, advising a wide variety of clients on both contentious and non-contentious issues including merger control, cartel cases and abuse of dominance cases.

Practice head(s):

Pauline Kuipers


Other key lawyers:

Tialda Beetstra; Janneke Kohlen


Testimonials

‘Very approachable, hands-on team. Always helping to find business-minded solutions, and available to provide additional support through apps/e-learning or training.’

‘Pauline Kuipers and Tialda Beetstra have quick response times. Very friendly and supportive & knowledgeable lawyers.’

Key clients

T-Mobile Netherlands B.V.


Cellnex Telecom S.A.


Salta (formerly NCOI) Holding B.V.


Computrain Opleidingen B.V.


Tempur Sealy


PPG


Marshall Land Systems Ltd.


Blackboard International B.V.


Corbion N.V.


NLdigital


Epson


Work highlights


  • Advised and represented T-Mobile in all competition law matters including its judicial intervention in the merger control proceeding at the Dutch competition authority concerning the joint venture between KPN and APG.
  • Represented Ottobock, a global healthtech company, during the acquisition of Livit, a patient care provider in the Netherlands, which included requiring merger clearance from the Dutch Healthcare Authority.
  • Defended PostNL in 10 years of litigation against the Dutch regulator (ACM) and alternative postal operators regarding alleged violations of ex ante access regulation regarding non-discriminatory and transparent access conditions.

bureau Brandeis

With Bas Braeken at the helm, bureau Brandeis has experience in civil and administrative EU competition litigation, and is active in merger control proceedings, both on behalf of notifying parties and complainants. The firm is also engaged in investigations by competition authorities, including dawn raids, and maintains a strong private damages litigation capacity, particularly in relation to vertical matters where claimants suffer from anti-competitive behaviour. Notably, the firm was responsible for winning a case on behalf of two EU athletes in appeal proceedings lodged by the ISU in relation to the European Commission’s decision.

Practice head(s):

Bas Braeken


Other key lawyers:

Jade Versteeg; Machteld Robichon


Testimonials

‘The team is very knowledgable and pragmatic.’

‘Bas is the go-to guy for all our antitrust matters.’

‘The bureau Brandeis team thinks ahead and actually help us with forward looking advice and suggestions. The legal documents are well legible also for a layman. They always meet the deadlines.’

‘Machteld Robichon is a very well trusted and sharp lawyer and one of the best in her field of expertise. She is easy going and not afraid to take a stance.’

‘They are available and nice people, and willing to think along when there is no concrete matter yet.’

‘We like to work with Bas Braeken. Jade Versteegh is also great.’

Key clients

Walt Disney/ESPN


Aegon


ENGIE


Bastion Hotels


Cleary Gottlieb/Philip Morris


Prijsvrij.nl


Blendle/Cafeyn


AGU


Centraal Boekhuis


European Elite Athletes Association


Multi Tank Card


Bosch Siemens Household Appliances


TIX.nl


Dutch Travel Alliance


Netherlands Online Gambling Association


Axeco


VakantieDiscounter


VTTI


Youfone


Auto Recycling Nederland


Work highlights


  • Assisting two EU Athletes as third parties in the appeal lodged by the International Skating Union (ISU) with the General Court in Luxembourg against the Commission’s decision prohibiting the ISU’s eligibility rules.
  • Representing online travel company Prijsvrij in civil proceedings against tour operator Corendon.
  • Representing Bastion in several appeals against approvals by the European Commission of state aid granted by the Dutch government under the Covid-19 State Aid Temporary Framework.

CMS

Advising on antitrust, competition and trade matters, CMS is active in merger control, cartel cases, state aid and FDI controls, representing clients before the ECJ, EC, ACM and domestic courts. The firm also has a dawn raid team servicing both Dutch and international clients. Led by Edmon Oude Elferink, the team handles merger notifications, state aid, cartel and abuse of dominance proceedings, as well as follow-on litigation. Elferink has a particular focus on the intersection of competition and data protection.

Practice head(s):

Edmon Oude Elferink


Testimonials

‘This practice has a unique repertoire of legal resources and a thriving team which makes it stand out from other law firms. They have reasonable prices and are always available.’

‘They are responsive, consider themselves as an extension of our business. Edmon Oude Elferink is a trusted unique partner.’

‘Good knowledge of clients’ market and quick analysis of ad hoc questions.’

‘The team is very familiar with our industry as well as with our company. Informal, short lines and partner availability is good.’

‘The team has expertise and experience in competition law.’

Key clients

All Nippon Airways (ANA)


McDonald’s


Port of Rotterdam


AEB


Royal FrieslandCampina


VolkerWessels


Pon Group


Husqvarna Group


Kubota


Quatra


Louwman Dealer Group


Össur


Bios Groep


Work highlights


  • Representing AEB in phase II merger notification proceedings before the ACM following its by Rotterdam-based waste-management company AVR.
  • Assisting Pon Germany in merger notification proceedings before the European Commission with regard to the proposed acquisition of Autohaus Moll and FlexxDrive.
  • Representing All Nippon Airways in follow-on damages proceedings arising from the Air Cargo case, following the European Commission’s 2010 infringement decision.

Dentons

Dentons‘ competition and EU practice, led by managing partner Marc Kuijper and Bram Braat, has a significant focus on antitrust litigation and cartel matters. Kuijper acts in an array of cases including the CRT cartel damages proceedings, and Braat has experience in EU and public procurement law as well as advising on competition matters including civil litigation and private enforcement. The practice leverages the firm’s wider global presence, enabling cohesive advice across multiple jurisdictions where relevant. The team was further bolstered by the arrival of associate Ana Maria Bruggink from Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer.

Practice head(s):

Marc Kuijper; Bram Braat


Other key lawyers:

Michel Deckers; Ana Maria Bruggink


Testimonials

‘The team has a deep knowledge and experience on EU and competition practice. In our opinion, understanding their clients’ needs and creating not only theoretical solutions but also providing strategical advices make the team significantly recommendable.’

‘Bram Braat is very experienced, hands-on, accessible and nice to work with. I would highly recommend his legal services.’

‘In Dentons we have found a real partner who perfectly supports us with every legal case. As a result, the law has often triumphed, even where that sometimes seemed unlikely. Through an enormous network of offices, there is a wealth of knowledge and experience on board.’

‘Braat’s team performed very well. They over-delivered content in a very pleasant way. They are accurate and I would recommend Dentons!’

‘Marc Kuijper is very hands-on and always provides his clients with practical strategies even in complex cases. He makes realistic analyses and manages complicated files successfully. He has also great communication skills.’

‘Bram Braat performed beyond expectations. In addition to his legal knowledge he contributed a lot to our board. It was like we had an extra boardmember.’

‘Marc Kuijper’s team comes highly recommended . They have brilliant lawyers with a hands on mentality. I would certainly recommend them for complex competition matters!’

‘Dentons offers new talent – regardless of origin – the opportunity to shine. This fits in perfectly with the vision of our organisation.’

Key clients

Vestel Trading Companies


Interparking


Ricardo Rail


Japan Airlines


Van Gelder Groep


Spaansen Holding


Cemaz Industria Eletrônica da Amazonia S.A.


IGB Eletrônica S.A.


Itautec S.A. – Grupo Itautec


Erasmus Universiteit


Maastricht University Medical Center


Zorlu Holding


Stichting De Glazen Lift


Samskip


Fairtrade


DutchCanGrow


Village Farms


Imbema


Taxicentrale Witteveen


Plus supermarkten


Noot Personenvervoer


Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland


Work highlights


  • Represented three large Brazilian electronic appliances manufacturers (Gradiente, Cemaz and Itautec) in proceedings against cathode ray tubes (CRT) cartel participants in a multimillion-euro compensation claim for damages.
  • Advised Spaansen on the settlement of a long-lasting state aid dispute with the municipality of Harlingen concerning state aid that was provided to Spaansen, when the municipality of Harlingen bought a plot of land from Spaansen.
  • Winning a case for Noot Personenvervoer in summary proceedings, giving Noot Personenvervoer another chance to win a valuable contract in the The Hague region and to provide public transportation in the region for a longer period.

Kennedy Van der Laan

Led by Annemieke van der Beek, senior associate Martijn van Bemmel and Martine de Koning, Kennedy Van der Laan assists clients with compliance, regulator investigations and enforcement proceedings. Handling EU and competition law, including sanctions, trade controls and financial regulation, as well as abuse of dominance, follow-on litigation and merger control, the firm stands out for its sector-specific experience in manufacturing, fashion, retail and hospitality, with an additional focus on banking and finance particularly in relation to the payment services market.

Practice head(s):

Annemieke van der Beek; Martijn van Bemmel; Martine de Koning


Other key lawyers:

Jelle Blom


Testimonials

‘The team has multiple qualities: easy to approach, hands-on mentality, high level of knowledge and provides good quality advice that is easy to apply in practice.’

‘The team is so experienced and on top of all developments so it is a pleasure to work with them.’

‘I especially have contact with Martine de Koning. Her quality is to interpret the law and see what the effects may be on the business side. And even though her agenda must be busy, she always makes time to have a call or meeting. She has been very helpful and informative.’

‘The team, and in particular Jelle Blom who we have worked with, is really clear in its communication and keen to provide hands-on advice to its clients.’

‘Jelle Blom is a young practitioner, yet is very capable and knowledgeable in the field of distribution and competition matters. I also very much like to work with Martine de Koening, be it with respect to distribution or franchising.’

‘Martine de Koning is the best in the Netherlands as regards combining distribution, franchise and competition law! A true expert and creative thinker. Jelle Blom excels too, especially in distribution matters, in particular in an international context.’

‘Client-focused, practical, strong project management.’

Key clients

ING


Rabobank


ABN/AMRO


NIKE / Converse


Currence


Port of Amsterdam


GVB


Geldmaat


VodafoneZiggo


Betaalvereniging / Dutch Payments Association


Union Cyclist Internationale (UCI)


|Cyclistes| |Professionels| |Associés| (CPA)


Certis Europe


CB |Trafilate| |Acciai| S.p.A.


Stichting KOMO


Stichting BKR


Marriott


G-Star RAW


Hilton


Work highlights


  • Assisting the Foundation Right to Consumer Justice with a mass claim against Apple in abuse of dominance litigation that follows in the footsteps of the Fortnite decision in the US.
  • Assisting Nike European Operations Netherlands in a procedure against a Czech contract partner that operates a monobrand store.
  • Representing Union Cyclist Internationale (UCI) and Cyclistes Professionels Associés (CPA) in a continued dispute with Cycling Service on the distribution of price money of professional races.

Maverick Advocaten N.V.

Maverick Advocaten N.V. is a Dutch boutique firm specialising in competition, procurement and regulated markets. In relation to competition law, the firm covers cartel investigations and anti-competitive allegations, transactions with a focus on regulated markets involving merger control proceedings and phase II notifications, and competition litigation. The practice is headed by Diederik Schrijvershof, who has experience applying competition expertise to a range of sectors including agriculture, healthcare and life sciences, and public transport, and Martijn van de Hel, ‘a fantastic lawyer’, who specialises in dealing with ACM and EC investigations. Cyriel Ruers recently joined the firm from Allen & Overy LLP and focuses on competition law, market regulation and consumer protection.

Practice head(s):

Diederik Schrijvershof; Martijn van de Hel


Other key lawyers:

Cyriel Ruers


Testimonials

‘The Maverick team has a very pragmatic and responsive attitude. Characterized by dealing quickly and appropriately with cases presented to them.’

‘Maverick Advocaten was recommended to us because of their expertise in competition law. We have experienced working with this office as very pleasant. Their specialism has helped us very well in an IP procedure in which competition law suddenly came as a surprise.’

‘Martijn van de Hel is an easily accessible person with extensive knowledge of competition law. He thinks strategically and is able to quickly and efficiently extract the relevant matters from a file. Due to his very extensive knowledge of the subject matter, he is able to convey the essence of a case to the judges briefly and powerfully. His open character and humor make him a pleasant person to work with.’

‘Martijn van de Hel has the ability to combine his thorough legal knowledge with strategic thinking. A winning combination.’

‘The Maverick team is very well attuned to each other and always has the up-to-date information and the same passion for the business. You also feel the fanaticism and commitment to bring the matter to a successful conclusion.’

‘Martijn is a fantastic lawyer who shows enormous commitment. Martijn is very clear in simply explaining the legal issue in the language of the client. He makes you feel that your case is the only thing he is working on and shows a huge commitment. He never gives up and communicates very clearly what the strengths and weaknesses are in the case. Especially the strengths he brings out and in addition to his drive, he often knows how to strike the right chord with his humor.’

‘Diederik Schrijvershof is a pragmatic thinker, with in depth industry knowledge in healthcare.’

‘The firm is specialised in antitrust law. Its strong focus makes it the most agile and hands on team for specific questions, be they regulatory or tactical. We mainly engage them in mergers and acquisitions and they never say: “Impossible”. Their strength, besides focus, is the quality of the team: extremely responsive and reliable. They have a transparent and fair billing system. The size of the firm, not too small and not too big, enables a quick question & answer session when required.’

Key clients

ADG


European Dental Group


Novartis


OIM


Synergia


Eneco


Achmea


Altrecht


Mediq


RadboudUMC


Parnassia Groep


Erasmus MC


Arkin


Bayer


Growers United (Cooperatie DOOR)


Royal Zon (Cooperatie ZON)


GGnet


Funda


KNMP


Waterland


Gilde Healthcare Partners B.V.


Standard Investment


OneMed


Quadrum Capital


SPIE


Decathlon Netherlands


De Nederlandse GGZ


Federatie Mobiliteitsbedrijven Nederland (FMN)


Allrail


Work highlights


  • Assisting Erasmus MC in obtaining second phase merger clearance from the Dutch Competition Authority in the proposed Erasmus MC/IJsselland merger.
  • Assisting international supplier of medical products and healthcare solutions Mediq to obtain second phase merger clearance from the ACM.
  • Representing Funda to successfully put an end to ACM investigations into alleged abuse of dominance.

Taylor Wessing LLP

Taylor Wessing LLP’s competition, EU and trade team, based in Eindoven, stands out for its combination of competition and intellectual property law expertise, with particular knowledge in the area of FRAND and standard essential patents. The firm has advised on several cartel investigations launched by the ACM, merger control matters, and abuse of dominance cases, including acting for Visymo in an intervention procedure in the appeal by Google against the EC AdSense decision. The team is led by Bram Nijhof, an experienced competition, public procurement and state aid practitioner.

Practice head(s):

Bram Nijhof


Testimonials

‘The team members are not just ‘lawyers’ but are really experts. They keep up with the latest developments and regularly publish or are in contact with academia.’

‘I am mostly turning to Taylor Wessing NV in matters of public procurement. The team understands the specific market we are working in and has profound knowledge of tenders. If they see an opportunity that fits our profile, they will bring it proactively to our attention.’

‘I worked mostly with Bram Nijhof. Next to his expertise, he stands out because of his communication skills. No long essays, he is to the point and is an honest communicator at eye level, which means we trust him with our cases.’

Key clients

Heijmans


Vebego


Visymo


Stichting PAMM


RM 1


De Meeuw


Nowi


De Vos Diensten


WL Gore


Buddha to Buddha


D2L Europe Ltd.


Knaap Bikes


Van Halteren


Dentalair Group B.V.


Zapp


Eijffinger


Trust


Flo Health


Kanters Special Products


Online Influence Institute


MBI


Summa College


Vista College


Van Bommel


Copaco


Work highlights


  • Represented De Vos Diensten and RM (Netherlands) in their appeal regarding the takeover of Sandd by PostNL which was prohibited by the ACM but overruled by the Dutch State Secretary of Economic Affairs.
  • Coordinated the notification procedure at the ACM for Heijmans in its acquisition of Dynniq Energy, a company active in real estate, residential construction, utilities and infrastructure.
  • Advising Visymo on its support in the appeal lodged by Google against fines for anti-competitive conduct in abusing its dominant market position regarding advertising.

AKD

AKD has developed particular expertise at the intersection of competition and consumer law, and in the foreign direct investment regulatory framework and private enforcement cases, including cartel follow-on damages claims. Led by Pieter Kuypers and Joost Houdijk, the practice is active in investigations, merger control and state aid, with an emphasis on its integrated Benelux capacity. The firm has experience acting for clients across the transport, healthcare and energy industries and the public sector.

Practice head(s):

Pieter Kuypers; Joost Houdijk


Other key lawyers:

Nikee Groot


Testimonials

‘Skilled and experienced, quickly available upon request.’

‘Joost Houdijk – skillful, to the point, pragmatic.’

‘We required specific expertise in EU Procurement law, for which AKD has a specialised practice. The team, though small, was very knowledgeable in the subject matter at hand and provided the required guidance.’

‘Pieter Kuypers and Nikee Groot were well versed in the practical aspect of EU procurement law. They provided a professional and to-the-point legal strategy, required legal briefs, and legal representation during the course of our engagement.’

‘Joost Houdijk communicated in a way that matched the level of the participants. He showed that a theoretical topic can be conveyed to the audience in a lively and engaging way.’

‘I can recommend Joost Houdijk. Excellent competition lawyer, great knowledge of competition law and fun to work with.’

‘Joost knows our market well by now and finds other point of views or additional arguments that make our case stronger.’

‘Good expertise, very service oriented.’

Key clients

ProRail B.V.


VINCI Energies Netherlands B.V.


De Hoge Dennen Capital SHI


Natuurmonumenten


Achmea


Erasmus Medical Center


Maasstad Medical Center


TransAtlantis


Imagina Media Audiovisual SA


Province of Limburg


Work highlights


  • Representing TransAtlantis Funding Lux Sarl in a private damages action against truck manufacturers that were involved in the truck cartel.
  • Assisting Natuurmonumenten in a procedure before the ECJ regarding its judgment on 3 September 2021, holding that a Commission Decision of 2 September 2015 regarding state aid contained procedural defects.
  • Carried out a successful merger notification procedure to the Dutch Competition Authority with regard to the intended acquisition of Van Dillewijn Holding by Koninklijke Paardekooper Group.

Clifford Chance

The full-service team at Clifford Chance advises on multi-jurisdictional mergers and foreign investment regimes, as well as cartels and abuse of dominance proceedings, working closely with the firm’s M&A team on large transactions. The firm also maintains close connections with relevant authorities including the ACM, the EC and the Ministry of Economic Affairs in the Netherlands. The team is led by counsel Frans Muller.

Practice head(s):

Frans Muller


Testimonials

‘The Clifford Chance Antitrust Team provides astute legal advice seamlessly across multiple jurisdictions. They are always on call to immediately address our issues as they arise.’

‘Frans Muller, though a senior counsel, is our “relationship partner.” He coordinates with his team, provides proactive advice and guidance, and is always available. He is also kind, funny and clearly a good mentor for the more junior attorneys on his team.’

Key clients

HES International


Nouryon


Pfizer


Royal DSM


Spotify


Vattenfall


Building Materials Europe (BME)


Nobian


Teva Pharmaceuticals


Rivean Capital Partners


Royal Ten Cate


Upfield


Entain Group


AnQore


ACE Pharmaceuticals


KKR


CVC Capital Partners


Allianz Partners


3i Group


Work highlights


  • Advised Rotterdam-based HES International on the acquisition of full control over an Amsterdam-based competitor, OBA Bulk Terminal.
  • Advising Royal DSM on the sale of its Protective Materials business to Avient Corporation for an enterprise value of €1.44bn.
  • Advised European energy company Vattenfall and Vattenfall Duurzame Energie in relation to the agreement with BASF on the sale of 49.5% of the offshore wind farm Hollandse Kust Zuid.

DLA Piper

The competition, procurement and EU law team at DLA Piper, led by Léon Korsten, has a strong litigation offering, acting on behalf of both claimants and defendants, and handles a number of civil enforcement matters including follow-on cartel damages and civil disputes regarding state aid. The firm is also active in public procurement, merger control, investigations and advisory matters.

Practice head(s):

Léon Korsten


Key clients

Afvalsturing Friesland


Arcadis


ASR Real Estate


Asset Rail


Ballast Nedam


DEME


Draken


Farmel


Ergon Capital Partners


ForFarmers


Hoeksema Totaal Recycling


EMK Capital


Ocean


Naval Group


Majorel


Oaktree Capital


Work highlights


  • Defended Afvalsturing Friesland against state aid and misuse of procurement law allegations in civil litigation.
  • Advised and litigated on behalf of Arcadis Nederland concerning several framework agreements which are of significant strategic importance to Arcadis Nederland’s core business.
  • Acted for Ballast Nedam on the successful competition approval of its acquisitions of its competitors Willems Bouwbedrijf and Mouwrik Bouw, including the interests Willems and Mouwrik held in joint ventures with other competitors.

Jones Day

Handling antitrust and competition matters on a multi-jurisdictional basis, Jones Day offers a globally integrated practice. The firm has experience in EU and non-EU merger clearances, including merger control proceedings for large transactions, antitrust investigations conducted by both the EC and the ACM, and private litigation. The practice is led by Yvan Desmedt.

Practice head(s):

Yvan Desmedt


Testimonials

‘Yvan Desmedt is very knowledgeable, approachable, and with top quality Commission experience available right here in Amsterdam.’

Key clients

SHV Energy


Volkswagen Financial Services


SAP


Suez


Liberty Global/Telenet


JBS


DAS Holding


DeutscheTelekom


T-Mobile


ASR Property Fund N.V.


ASR Dutch Prime Retail Custodian B.V.


ASR Utrecht Real Estate Investments Netherlands B.V. (ASR)


Kroonenberg Groep B.V. (Kroonenberg)