Firms To Watch: Competition

The Ankara-based competition group at Günay Erdogan Attorneys At Law specialises in designing comprehensive compliance programmes to advise government agencies and domestic and multinational corporates across such sectors as hospitality, construction, health and telecoms.

Firms in the Spotlight Competition

ELIG Gürkaynak Attorneys-at-Law

ELIG Gürkaynak Attorneys-at-Law logo

ELIG Gürkaynak Attorneys-at-Law delivers the top competition law practice in Turkey with 52 competition law specialists, out of a total of 95 lawyers at ELIG Gürkaynak. In addition to unparalleled experience in merger control issues, ELIG Gürkaynak has vast experience in defending companies before the Turkish Competition Board in all phases of antitrust investigations, abuse …

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Competition in Turkey

ELIG Gürkaynak Attorneys-at-Law

The competition law practice at ELIG Gürkaynak Attorneys-at-Law remains a market leader, leveraging the experience of its team to provide a comprehensive service to insurers, financial institutions and foreign and local businesses across industries ranging from tech, entertainment, food and medical devices to pharmaceuticals, energy and consumer products. Founding partner and competition law authority Gönenç Gürkaynak heads the practice, bringing expertise to merger control filings, investigations by the Turkish Competition Board and the compliance reporting packages for global clients. K Korhan Yıldırım specialises in such areas as cartel and abuse of dominant position investigations. Öznur Inanılır   is notable for work in merger control and defences in investigations alleging restrictive agreements. Other key figures include Onur Özgümüş and Dilara Yeşilyaprak, who was promoted to counsel in January 2023.

Practice head(s):

Gönenç Gürkaynak


Other key lawyers:

Korhan Yıldırım; Öznur İnanılır; Onur Özgümüş; Dilara Yeşilyapra; Eda Duru; Harun Gündüz; Ebru Ince; Kağan Uçar


Testimonials

‘Very skilled and capable team with lots of experience with competition law matters. Easy to collaborate and accessible.’

‘Gonenc Gurkaynak and Eda Duru are very available and responsive and bring high expertise and added value to their clients.’

‘Onur Ozgumus is really responsive, nice, sharp, efficient, very smart, profession and we really enjoy working with him.

‘Gonenc Gurkaynak is supremely knowledgeable about all aspects of Turkish competition law. Partner Oznur Inanilir is also highly knowledgeable, as is associate Dilara Yesilyaprak.’

‘Founding partner Gönenç Gürkaynak is no doubt the star of the team – extremely well connected within the Turkish competition authority, used to working with international clients, practical and reassuring. His team is quite senior and very efficient. When there is a difficult filing with the Turkish competition authority, ELIG is one of the few firms that we would advise clients to retain in Turkey.’

‘Gönenç Gürkaynak – his knowledge of Turkish competition law but also European competition law is absolutely outstanding. He knows everything! He has very good knowledge about the investigation procedure at the Turkish competition authority.

‘The leading Turkish competition practice.’

Key clients

Google LLC


Allianz Sigorta A.Ş.


L’Oréal Türkiye Kozmetik Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.


Çimentaş İzmir Çimento Fabrikası Türk A.Ş.


Société Générale S.A.


Mutlu Akü ve Malzemeleri Sanayii Anonim Şirketi


Çimsa Çimento Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş. (a subsdiary of Sabancı Holding)


Akçansa Çimento Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş. (a joint venture of Sabancı Holding and HiedelbergCement)


Warner Bros Turkey Film Limited Şirketi (Turkish subsidiary of Warner Bros)


Associated British Foods Plc


Merck Sharp Dohme İlaçları Ltd. Şti.


Tetra Pak AB


Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Inc.


Medtronic plc


UNMAŞ Unlu Mamuller Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.


Twitter, Inc.


Chiesi Farmaceutici S.p.A.


Work highlights


  • Assisted with the acquisition of the sole control over International Financial Group Limited by Cinven Capital Management.

ACTECON

ACTECON, with its extensive knowledge and experience in competition law, provides a very high-quality service‘ to domestic and multinational businesses across such sectors ranging from tech, energy and building materials to e-commerce, food and beverages. The group’s comprehensive service covers merger control filings, investigations, sector inquiries, litigation, compliance programs and negotiations with the Competition Authority. The practice is led by managing partners Bahadir Balki, an authority in global merger transactions and cartel and abuse of dominance investigations, and Fevzi Toksoy, an expert in merger notifications and customs issues. Other key figures include counsels Ertuğrul Can Canbolat, an international trade remedy specialist; economist Erdem Aktekin; Caner K. Cesit, a specialist in follow-on litigation; and Mustafa Ayna, who handles judicial reviews of administrative actions.

Practice head(s):

Bahadir Balki; Fevzi Toksoy


Other key lawyers:

Ertugrul Can Canbolat; Erdem Aktekin; Caner Cesit; Mustafa Ayna


Testimonials

‘Actecon team differs significantly in terms of accessibility, client-oriented applicable approaches and service speed.’

‘ACTECON, with its extensive knowledge and experience in competition law, provides a very high-quality service with prompt replies to queries and very regular status updates to its clients.’

‘Bahadir Balki – always available, solid reputation and very strategic.’

‘ACTECON Team is a big support to our in-house team because they provide services in a very close-up and detail-oriented manner. They feel like a part of our legal team due to their kind and warm relationships with everyone in the company.’

‘Bahadır Balkı, the managing partner of ACTECON, is a powerful figure in Turkish competition law community and he is very well-known for his strategical intelligence. Mustafa Ayna, counsel at ACTECON, is a very skilled lawyer, always on-time, always very accurate and detail oriented.’

‘ACTECON has one of the best antitrust practices in Turkey. With extensive experience, expertise and  a relevant network with the government regulators, time and again, ACTECON has proven to be a truly reliable local antitrust counsel for Turkey.’

Key clients

Meta Platforms, Inc.


EssilorLuxottica


Suez


Bundesministerium Der Finanzen (Federal Ministry of Finance of Germany)


AmerisourceBergen Corporation


Audi AG


Volkswagen AG


NielsenIQ


Hanwha Corporation


GIC Group


Iveco


Mondelez


Coca Cola


DFDS


Kronospan


OYAK Cement


Getir


LeasePlan


Domino’s


Erdemir


Teknosa


Wingie Enuygun Group


Migros


Jacobs Douwe Egberts


Çelebi Aviation Holding


Bupa Acıbadem Insurance


Flixbus


AgeSA Pension and Life Insurance


Doğuş Planet Elektronik Ticaret ve Bilişim Hizmetleri A.Ş. (n11.com)


ENI S.p.A


Toros Tarım


RHI Magnesita


Work highlights


  • Representing Meta Platforms, Inc. (Facebook) before the TCA in WhatsApp User Data Investigation.
  • Represents EssilorLuxottica S.A. before the TCA in the investigation concerning the alleged abuse of dominance via contractual and/or de facto exclusivity in the ophthalmic lens market.
  • Provided advisory services to Nielsen IQ for the transaction concerning the indirect acquisition of sole control over GfK SE.

Balcioglu Selçuk Ardiyok Keki

Bolstered by the firm’s 2023 October acquisition of Bozoglu-Izgi Attorney Partnership, the competition team at Dentons-affiliated firm Balcioglu Selçuk Ardiyok Keki brings strength to advise major financial institutions, domestic and multinational businesses across broad span of sectors, ranging from tech, media, energy, food, cosmetics and telecoms to beverages, electronics, pharmaceuticals, e-commerce and luxury goods. The practice is headed by Şahin Ardıyok, a former Turkish Competition Authority case handler, and Bora İkiler, who both provide expertise on investigations, regulatory authority filings and merger control notifications. Other key figures include counsel Barış Yüksel, who has advised the Information Communications and Technologies Authority; senior associate Armanç Canbeyli; and associate Gediz Çınar.

Practice head(s):

Şahin Ardıyok; Bora İkiler


Other key lawyers:

Barış Yüksel; Armanç Canbeyli; Gediz Çınar


Testimonials

‘All team members work dedicatedly. Especially Armanç Canbeyli, who provides quick legal support when required in a timely manner.’

‘They are competent at the subject, business-oriented, with a high level of understanding about strategic matters.’

‘They are trusted partners, their technical knowledge is very good.’

Key clients

ADM Elektrik Dağıtım A.Ş.


Aksa Enerji Üretim A.Ş.


Akfen Yenilenebilir Enerji A.Ş.


Aktaes Dağıtım ve Pazarlama A.Ş.


Arkel Elektrik Elektronik San. ve Tic. A.Ş.


Armut Teknoloji A.S.


Batıçim Batı Anadolu Çimento Sanayii A.Ş.


ByteDance Inc


Cargill Tarım ve Gıda Sanayi Tic. A.Ş.


CarrefourSA Carrefour Sabancı Ticaret Merkezi A.Ş.


Club Jolly Turizm ve Ticaret A.Ş.


Daimler – Mercedes – Benz Finansman Türk A.Ş.


Danem Gıda San. Ve Tic. A.Ş.


Dentaş Kağıt Sanayi A.Ş.


Enerjisa Elektrik Perakende Satış A.Ş.


Eren Holding A.Ş.


Ferrero Fındık İthalat İhracat ve Tic. A.Ş.


GDZ Elektrik Dağıtım A.Ş.


Göltaş Göller Bölgesi Çimento Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.


Hedef Araç Kiralama ve Servis A.Ş.


IFFCO Singapore Pte Ltd


Johnson & Johnson Medikal San. ve Tic. Ltd. Şti.


Johnson and Johnson Sıhhi Malzeme Sanayi ve Ticaret Ltd. Şti


JTI Tütün Ürünleri Pazarlama A.Ş.


Krea İçerik Hizmetleri ve Prodüksiyon A.Ş. (BeIN Turkey)


Lilly İlaç Ticaret Ltd. Şti.


L’Oréal Turkiye Kozmetik Tic. ve San. A.S.


Magis Teknoloji A.Ş.


Metro Grosmarket Bakırköy Alışveriş Hizmetleri Ticaret Ltd. Şti.


Multinet Kurumsal Hizmetler A.Ş.


Mynet Medya


OMV Aktiengesellschaft


Orma Orman Mahsulleri Integre Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.


Ortho Clinical Diagnostics


Panasonic Life Solutions Elektrik San. ve Tic. A.Ş.


Siemens Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.


SPITCH Ltd


Toyota Pazarlama ve Satış A.Ş.


Türk Henkel Kimya Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.


Varinak Onkoloji Ssitemleri Satış ve Servis A.Ş.


Vava Cars Turkey Otomotiv A.Ş.


Viatris Ilaclari Ltd. Sti.


WBS Veri Merkezi Çözümleri Ltd. Şti.


Yemek Sepeti Elektronik İletişim Tanıtım Pazarlama A.Ş. (Delivery Hero Turkey)


Work highlights


  • Successfully represented Göltaş Göller Bölgesi Çimento San. ve Tic. A.Ş. in an investigation initiated against undertakings operating in the cement industry.
  • Assisting and representing Johnson and Johnson in correspondences with the TCA on the individual exemption application for its selective distribution system concerning only four products used in cancer and psoriasis treatment.
  • Successfully secured the clearance from the Competition Board for Akfen Holding A.Ş. to acquire 100% of shares and sole control of Akfen Yenilenebilir A.Ş., contributing to the timely completion of the planned IPO of the target.

Erdem & Erdem Law Office

With its ‘unwavering dedication to providing comprehensive and client-centric competition law solutions‘, Erdem & Erdem Law Office advises financial institutions and major domestic and multinationals across the automotive, hospitality, beverages, manufacturing, logistics, tech, energy and consumer goods sectors. The practice’s full service covers investigations, merger control matters, contracts and distributorship systems. The practice is led in Istanbul and Izmir by Mert Karamustafaoğlu, who draws on his 15-year experience in Turkish Competition Authority in the design of compliance programs; and founder and senior partner Ercüment Erdem. Other key figures include managing associate Ecem Süsoy Uygun, a specialist in merger control and exemption filings, and senior associates Merve Bakırcı and Can Yıldız.

Practice head(s):

Mert Karamustafaoğlu; Ercüment Erdem


Other key lawyers:

Ecem Süsoy Uygun; Merve Bakırcı; Can Yıldız


Testimonials

‘Erdem & Erdem, with its highly skilled team, not only provides distinguished services, but also provides practical and efficient solutions in most complex competition law matters.’

‘Mert Karamustafaoglu and Ecem Susoy Uygun are outstanding and distinguished solution partners, who provide constructive, effective and prompt services. They have deep knowledge on practices of regulatory authorities, and they are highly competent and qualified counsels.’

‘Mert Karamustafaoğlu is excellent in competition law and guides his clients through the ever-changing legal landscape. He is well-versed in business-related competition and regulatory challenges, while Ercüment Erdem is a competent senior partner with great experience and legal skills in this area.’

‘Erdem & Erdem’s competition practice distinguishes itself through its unwavering dedication to providing comprehensive and client-centric competition law solutions. Led by professionals like Ecem Susoy Uygun, a rising star senior associate, the team’s deep expertise ensures clients receive top-notch guidance in navigating complex regulatory landscapes.’

‘Mert Karamustafaoğlu is a distinguished leader in the field of competition law. His exceptional expertise, unwavering commitment to client success, and outstanding leadership qualities make him stand out among competitors.’

Key clients

TEB (Türk Ekonomi Bankası A.Ş.)


TEB Arval Araç Filo Kiralama A.Ş.


Gemlik Gübre Sanayii A.Ş.


Türkiye Şişe ve Cam Fabrikaları A.Ş


DyDo Drinco İçecek Satış ve Pazarlama A.Ş.


Arvato Lojistik Dış Ticaret ve E-Ticaret Hizmetleri A.Ş.


İstanbul Gübre Sanayii A.Ş.


Red Bull Gıda Dağıtım ve Pazarlama Ticaret Ltd.


Yemek Sepeti Elektronik İletişim Perakende Gıda A.Ş


McDonalds (Anadolu Restoran İşletmeleri Ltd. Şti.)


Anadolu Grubu


Adel Kalemcilik Ticaret ve Sanayi A.Ş.


Anadolu Sağlık Merkezi


Anadolu İsuzu


Anadolu Motor


Anadolu Etap İçecek


Çelik Motor Ticaret A.Ş.


Anadolu Efes Biracılık ve Malt Sanayi A.Ş.


AEP Anadolu Etap Penkon Gıda ve Tarım Ürünleri Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.


Enerjisa Enerji A.Ş.


CMA CGM


Figo Ticari Bilgi ve Uygulama Platformu A.Ş.


Karel Elektronik Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş. A subsidiary of Doğan Holding


Gama Enerji A.Ş.


Kumport Liman Hizmetleri A.Ş.


Alshaya Group


Yıldız Entegre Ağaç San. Ve Tic A.Ş.


Carrefoursa Carrefour Sabancı Ticaret Merkezi Anonim Şirketi


Çolakoğlu Metalürji A.Ş.


Iş Bankası (Türkiye İş Bankası A.Ş.)


Şekerbank T.A.Ş.


LGE Electronics


Mercedes-Benz Finansman Türk A.Ş.


Sagard SAS


Work highlights


  • Represented TEB, the joint venture of BNP Paribas, in a preliminary investigation before the Turkish Competition Authority regarding activities of payment facilitators, resulting in the decision not to launch a full-fledged investigation.
  • Represented Gemlik Gübre in an investigation launched by the Turkish Competition Board based on allegations that fertilizer suppliers violated competition legislations, and successfully avoided administrative monetary fines against the client.
  • Representing Anadolu Etap Tarım in the merger control filing submitted to the Competition Authority with regard to a transaction concerning the acquisition by Coca-Cola İçecek A.Ş. of 80 % of the share and the sole control of Anadolu Etap Penkon Gıda ve İçecek Ürünleri Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.

Esin Attorney Partnership, a Member Firm of Baker McKenzie International, a Swiss Verein

Very knowledgable and skilled in the field‘, the team at Esin Attorney Partnership, a Member Firm of Baker McKenzie International, a Swiss Verein advise household name multinationals across sectors ranging from food and beverages, healthcare and life sciences to gaming, chemicals and consumer goods, involved merger control filings, investigations and competition disputes. The group is led by seasoned litigator Hakan Özgökçen, who brings expertise to merger notifications, cartel investigations and leniency applications; and Sinan Diniz, who, in addition to advising clients on day-to day competition matters, utilises his experience representing multinational and local companies before the Turkish Competition Authority. Other notes figures include senior associates Esen Ergül and Ceren Seymenoğlu.

Practice head(s):

Hakan Özgökçen; Sinan Diniz


Other key lawyers:

Esen Ergül; Ceren Seymenoğlu


Testimonials

‘The team is composed of experts, including previous members of the Competition Authority. Very knowledgable and skilled in the field.’

‘Sinan Diniz is very responsive and hard-working.’

‘The team is always reachable, including at partner level, and provides to-the-point advice supported by examples from practice. Their transactional experience gives them a unique position in the market.’

Key clients

Pepsi Cola Servis ve Dağıtım Ltd. Şti. and Frito Lay Gıda Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.


Sysmex Turkey Diagnostik Sistemleri Limited Şirketi


SSR Mining Inc.


Playtika Holding Corp.


Platinum Equity Group


Toyota Tsusho Corporation


Ak Yatırım Menkul Değerler A.Ş.


Peak Oyun Yazılım ve Pazarlama A.Ş.


Unilever Sanayi ve Ticaret Türk A.Ş.


Silver Lake Group LLC


Türk Philips Ticaret A.Ş.


Acıbadem Sağlık Hizmetleri ve Ticaret A.Ş.


SK Geo Centric Co., Ltd.


Work highlights


  • Advised Peak Games before the Turkish Competition Authority for an investigation concerning allegations regarding non-poaching agreements in the Turkish labour market.
  • Advised Philips Turkey before the Turkish Competition Authority in relation to the pre-investigation initiated based on a complaint alleging that Philips Turkey abused its dominant position through refusing to deal in the market for medical imaging ancillary equipment and systems.
  • Advised Platinum Equity on the acquisition of sole control of Diversey for an all-cash transaction with a value of $4.6bn, which required multi-jurisdictional merger filings.

Paksoy

The ‘effective, patient, commercial, technically impeccable‘ the team at Paksoy advises a roster of major multinational clients on matters ranging from merger control, internal compliance checks and antitrust investigations to dawn raids and competition litigation. The group’s client base spans the automotive, tech, chemicals, media and entertainment, investment, logistics and pharmaceuticals sectors. The team is led by M. Togan Turan, who brings expertise to merger control filings and the negotiation of extensive remedy plans with the Competition Authority. Other key figures include counsel Gülçin Dere, who draws on a background as a chief competition expert at the TCA, and Büşra Aktüre, who was promoted to senior associate in January 2023.

Practice head(s):

M. Togan Turan


Other key lawyers:

Gülçin Dere; Büşra Aktüre


Testimonials

‘Paksoy’s competition law team is sensible and pragmatic. They approach transactions with a commercial sense that makes them a joy to work with.’

‘Best Turkish competition team, hands-down. Effective, patient, commercial, technically impeccable and great track record. Trusted partners for many years.’

‘Togan Turan is a leader and one of the best in his field. Excellent client management and technical skills.’

‘We regularly work with Paksoy. Paksoy works fast and finds pragmatic solutions even in complex transactions.’

‘Büşra Aktüre is always on top of things and provides client-orientated and pragmatic solutions.’

Key clients

Agrofert Group


Apollo Management


Biletix (a Ticketmaster group company)


Blackstone


Clayton, Dubilier & Rice and TPG


Concentrix Corporation


Farfetch Holdings and Richemont


IPSO Tarım


KKR


LetterOne Holdings


Microsoft Corporation


Oaktree Capital Management


Olin and Mitsui


Saudi Electronic Gaming Holding Company


Stellantis


TOGG – Türkiye’nin Otomobil Girişim


Grubu


Work highlights


  • Advised Stellantis on the merger filing for the sale of its shares in its Turkish distribution subsidiary to Tofaş, its joint venture with Koç Holding.
  • Advised Microsoft on the merger filing for its acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
  • Advised TOGG on competition law matters concerning its cooperation with TRUGO-Shell and Bosch.

ARI Attorneys at Law

The team ARI Attorneys at Law specialises in guiding Turkish businesses through complex Competition Authority investigations. The firm’s client roster spans such sectors as e-commerce, IT, media, construction, software and retail. The team is jointly headed by Haluk Arı, who draws on the experience of 11 years at the TCA; and Benan Ari, who brings expertise in consulting with prominent trade organisations. Other key figures include managing associate Gözde Süngü, who assists clients with competition compliance programs, and associate Yildız Akinsal.

Practice head(s):

Haluk Ari; Benan Ari


Other key lawyers:

Gözde Süngü; Yıldız Akınsal


Testimonials

‘Each member of the team has a caring and responsive approach, detailed work and strong work ethics.’

‘The team works in great harmony, enabling projects to be completed in a quick and smooth manner.’

‘Ari is a law firm with experience in several sectors. Working with the leading holding companies, Ari has a vast experience in the dynamics of the sectors, the market definitions and previous resolutions of the authorities. They not only advise the client with theoretical approaches, but also give examples and broaden the client’s perspective with examples from the relevant market.’

‘Haluk Arı is very experienced in a wide range of sectors and he has the ability to explain complex issues in a simple way.’

Key clients

Koç Holding A.Ş.


Türkiye Petrol Rafinerileri A.Ş.


Tofaş Türk Otomobil Fabrikası A.Ş.


D-Market Elektronik Hizmetler ve Ticaret A.Ş.


Düzey Tüketim Malları Sanayi Pazarlama ve Ticaret A.Ş.


Arçelik Pazarlama A.Ş.


Aygaz A.Ş.


Anadolu Anonim Türk Sigorta Şirketi


Hayat Kimya Sanayi A.Ş.


Kastamonu Entegre Ağaç Sanayi veTicaretA.Ş.


Otokoç Otomotiv Ticaret ve Sanayi A.Ş.


Türkiye Beyaz Eşya Sanayicileri Derneği


Doğan Trend Otomotiv Ticaret Hizmet ve Teknoloji A.Ş.


Ege Gübre Sanayi A.Ş.


KoçSistem Bilgi ve İletişim Hizmetleri A.Ş.


Türkiye Vakıflar Bankası T.A.O


Türkiye Cumhuriyeti Ziraat Bankası A.Ş.


Tat Gıda Sanayi A.Ş.


Sompo Sigorta A.Ş.


Sütaş Süt Ürünleri A.Ş.


Koçtaş Yapı Marketleri Ticaret A.Ş.


Doğuş Bilgi İşlem ve Teknoloji Hizmetleri A.Ş.


Dimes Gıda Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.


Nobel Pazarlama Limited Şirketi


BMC Otomotiv Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.


Hicri Ercili Deniz Nakliyat Kimyevi Maddeler Sanayi ve Ticaret Limited Şirketi


Dardanel Önentaş Gıda Sanayi A.Ş.


Work highlights


  • Represented Ege Gübre in a TCA investigation against fertiliser producers with an allegation that seven undertakings violated Article 4 of the Act No. 4054 by way of price increases.
  • Represented three clients in a comprehensive TCA investigation against 48 undertakings regarding their actions in the labor market and managed to significantly reduce the administrative fines.
  • Represented Düzey in a comprehensive TCA investigation in to the FMCG sector, which focused on hub and spoke cartel and determination of retail prices.

GKC Partners (in professional association with White & Case)

The competition law practice at GKC Partners (in professional association with White & Case) advises a robust base of domestic and multinational insurers, financial institutions and corporates (including Goldman Sachs and Allianz) on competiton law compliance matters and merger control filings. The team’s client roster spans such sectors as energy, fintech, pharmaceuticals, e-commerce, consumer goods, retail and manufacturing. Associate Esma Aktaş represents local and international clients during investigations and before the Competition Authority. Former department head Sezin Elçin Cengiz departed in August 2023.

Other key lawyers:

Esma Aktaş


Key clients

TotalEnergies Renewables


Goldman Sachs International


Eliptik Yazılım ve Ticaret A.Ş.


E.ON SE


Garanti BBVA


Allianz Sigorta A.Ş.


Work highlights


  • Represented TotalEnergies Renewables in connection with the merger control aspects and related filings to the Competition Authority in Turkey with respect to its acquisition of the shares representing 50% of the share capital of Rönesans Enerji Üretim ve Ticaret.
  • Advised Abdi İbrahim in responding to RFIs by the Turkish Competition Authority within the scope of an ongoing sector inquiry into pharmaceuticals sector.

Kolcuoglu Demirkan Koçakli

The team at Kolcuoglu Demirkan Koçakli brings experience to advising insurers and domestic and multinational business on merger filings, Competition Authority investigations and competition audit and compliance programs. The firm’s client roster spans such sectors as e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, beverages, energy, mining, retail and shipping. The practice is led by Umut Kolcuoğlu and counsel Neyzar Ünübol, who utilises 12 years of experience working at the TCA, which included handling negative clearance applications and merger cases. Also of note is Ali Tunçsav, who was promoted to senior associate in July 2023.

Practice head(s):

Umut Kolcuoğlu; Neyzar Ünübol


Other key lawyers:

Ali Tunçsav


Testimonials

‘Neyzar Ünübol is very collaborative, supportive and helpful.  Ali Tuncsav is also very supportive and collaborative.’

‘Timely response. Excellent English. Client caring attitude. Reasonable fee. ’

‘Neyzar Ünübol provides prudent and practical advice.’

‘The team is excellent in various antitrust issues and result-oriented. Kolcuoğlu’s main strength is the quality of its people.’

Key clients

Mitsui & Co


Ocean Network Express


Nitto Denko Corporation


Jacobs Douwe Egberts


Boyner Group


Gratis


Hedef Filo


Likewize Corp. (formerly known as Brightstar Corp.)


QTerminals


team.blue


HDI Insurance


Vitol


Mediterra Capital


Turkven Private Equity


Logo Software


Azertelecom / Neqsol Holding


Upfield


Vinmar International Ltd.


Orix Corporation


Cheplapharm


The Boston Consultancy Group


Talanx


Duracell


Work highlights


  • Represented Ocean Network Express, on the merger control filing regarding its indirect acquisition of a minority stake in Atlas Corporation
  • Represented Mitsui in the merger control filing regarding its acquisition of joint control in Joy Global (Peru) S.A.C.
  • Advised HDI Insurance in relation to its acquisition of Fiba Emeklilik ve Hayat’s sole control and the creation of a joint venture between HDI Insurance and Fibabanka.

NAZALI Attorney Partnership

The competition practice at NAZALI Attorney Partnership leverages the experience of its team to provide comprehensive competition consultancy services to a roster of domestic corporates and multinational household names spanning sectors ranging from pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food and beverages, to e-commerce, health, tech, energy and retail. The practice’s full offering covers investigations by the Competition Authority, M&A notifications, internal audits and dawn raid simulations. The team is headed by Metin Pektaş, who draws on his 12 years as a a competition law/policy specialist and case handler for the Competition Authority; and associate Derviş Boran Beysülen, who brings expertise to investigations and merger control matters.

Practice head(s):

Metin Pektaş; Derviş Boran Beysülen


Other key lawyers:

Beyza Sarıpınar; Ahmet Önder


Testimonials

‘Metin Pektas at Nazali Law Firm is very experienced in competition law and very trustworthy, polite, supporting and responsive.’

‘Providing highly professional consultancy services, having a wide range of sectoral knowledge, and competence in consultancy services are their core abilities.’

‘High availability. Very pragmatic. Good knowledge of the law.’

‘There is strong communication between team members and they are client oriented.’

‘In particular, the practical, result-oriented and rapid feedback of the team regarding the response expected from them is very valuable.’

Key clients

Siemens Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.


Bayer Türk Kimya Sanayi Ltd. Şti.


Avon Kozmetik Ürünleri San. ve Tic. A.Ş.


Yıldız Holding A.Ş. (Ülker)


FLO Mağazacılık Hizmetleri ve Pazarlama A.Ş.


İstanbul Dünya Ticaret Merkezi A.Ş.


Balıkesir Elektromekanik Sanayi Tesisleri A.Ş.


Matlı Holding A.Ş. – Keskinoğlu Tavukçuluk ve Damızlık İşletmeleri San. ve Tic. A.Ş.


Beypazarı İçecek Pazarlama Dağıtım Ambalaj Turizm Petrol İnşaat Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.


Altıparmak Gıda San. Tic. A.Ş.


Kozmetik ve Temizlik Üreticileri Derneği


Saray Holding


Reckitt Temizlik Malzemesi Sanayi ve Ticaret Anonim Şirketi


Türk Henkel Kimya San. Tic. A.Ş.


Haribo Şekerleme Sanayi ve Ticaret Limited Şirketi


Fujifilm Dış Ticaret A.Ş.


Yamaha Motor Sanayi ve Ticaret Limited Şirketi


İş Finansal Kiralama A.Ş.


Daikin Isıtma ve Soğutma Sistemleri Sanayi Ticaret Anonim Şirketi


Yemek Sepeti Elektronik İletişim Perakende Gıda Lojistik A.Ş.


CK Enerji Yatırımları A.Ş.


Euro Gıda Sanayi ve Ticaret Anonim Şirketi


CP Standart Gıda Sanayi ve Ticaret Anonim Şirketi


Obilet Bilişim Sistemleri A.Ş.


Ak Portföy Yönetim A.Ş.


ELDER – Elektrik Dağıtım Hizmetleri Derneği


Gediz-Aydem Elektrik Perakende Satış A.Ş.


GDZ-ADM Elektrik Dağıtım A.Ş.


Sakarya Elektrik Dağıtım A.Ş.


Sakarya Elektrik Perakende Satış A.Ş.


Yeşilırmak Elektrik Perakende Satış A.Ş.


Gübre Fabrikaları Türk A.Ş.


Abalıoğlu Balık ve Gıda Ürünleri A.Ş.


Eker Süt Ürünleri A.Ş.


Fersan Fermantasyon Ürünleri San. ve Tic. A.Ş.


Kristal Yağları Ticaret ve Sanayi Kontuvarı T.A.Ş.


Beta Optik San. Tic. Ltd. Şti.


Abalıoğlu Tarımsal Üretim A.Ş.


Work highlights


  • Advised and provided a full range of competition law compliance services to Avon Cosmetics, including competition law consultancy, provision of legal opinion, competition law training and dawn-raid simulations.
  • Advised and represented Horizon Hızlı Tüketim A.Ş. which is a subsidiary of Yıldız Holding A.Ş., before the Turkish Competition Authority (TCA) during the competition investigation and finalized the investigation with a settlement decision with a reduction of 25% in the administrative fine.

Özdirekcan Dündar Şenocak Ak

The competition law practice at Gide Loyrette Nouel-associated firm Özdirekcan Dündar Şenocak Ak brings expertise to advising financial institutions, insurers and domestic and multinational corporates across the automotive, luxury products, banking, tech, media and entertainment sectors. The group’s full offering covers the development of compliance programs, merger control approvals, general counselling and investigations. The team is headed by merger control Arpat Şenocak, with key support provided by senior associate İklim Gülsün Aytekin, who utilises experience representing clients before the Competition Authority.

Practice head(s):

Arpat Şenocak


Other key lawyers:

İklim Gülsün Aytekin; Ecem Nur Aksoy; Mustafa Karadaş


Key clients

Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations


BPCE Group


Vauban Infrastructure Partners


AXA Mediterranean Holding S.A.U.


Türk Ekonomi Bankası A.Ş. (TEB)


BNP Paribas Cardif Sigorta A.Ş.


Zeplin Yazilim Sistemleri ve Bilgi Teknolojileri A.Ş.


Volvo Group Otomotiv Ticaret Limited Şirketi


LVMH Group


Renault Trucks


Alexander McQueen


Ak Gıda Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.


AXA Sigorta A.Ş.


AXA Hayat ve Emeklilik A.Ş.


TEB Finansman A.Ş.


NN Hayat ve Emeklilik A.Ş.


TEB Portföy Yatırım A.Ş.


Groupama Filiales et Participations


Believe International


Thermofisher


Gestamp


ÇEPAŞ Galvaniz Demir Çelik Madencilik A.Ş.


Steelcase SAS


Work highlights


  • Advised AXA Med and its Turkish affiliates in the context of the merger control filing relating to its acquisition of the shares representing 100% of the issued share capital of Groupama Investment Bosphorus Holding A.Ş.
  • Advised TEB in relation to the merger control assessment and notification before the TCA relating to the acquisition of all shares of TEB Finansman Anonim Şirketi by TEB from BNP Paribas Personal Finance S.A. and TEB Holding Anonim Şirketi.
  • Advised and represented Zeplin during the oral hearing held before the Turkish Competition Board with respect to the milestone investigation concerning the labour market.

ZESA Attorney Partnership

The ‘very professional and hands-on lawyers‘ at ZESA Attorney Partnership advise a roster of domestic and household name multinationals across such industries as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, consumer electronics, financial services, automotive, cosmetics, food and beverages. The practice’s full service extends to competition disputes, licensing agreements, investigations, audits, the development of compliance programs and distribution agreements. The practice is headed by co-founders and experienced litigators Zeynep Ergün, an M&A specialist, and Sibel Yılmaz Atik, who handles matters involving complex cartel and abuse of dominance investigations.

Practice head(s):

Zeynep Ergün; Sibel Yılmaz Atik


Testimonials

‘The team at ZESA is very experienced, very well connected and is very pragmatic and hands-on in handling cases. ZESA is a boutique firm and deals with both merger control as well as behavioural cases.’

‘Zeynep Ergun is one of the outstanding competition law experts in Turkey, with many years of experience. Her client handling is excellent, her advise pragmatic and to the point.’

‘Sibel Yılmaz provides outstanding support and has a deep knowledge of Turkish competition law. Always available to support and provide expert opinion.’

‘Zeynep Ergun and Sibel Atik are highly recommended competition partners, whose expertise is exceptional. They have a deep understanding of the merger control rules, coupled with a practical approach.’

‘Partners with deep know-how and extensive experience.’

‘We have worked with both founding partners Zeynep Ergün and Sibel Atik. Both are very experienced and provide extremely helpful advice and support.’

‘Competent, easy to contact, collaborative, experienced and solution-oriented.’

‘ZESA consists of very professional and hands-on lawyers who provide tailor made advice.’

Key clients

Danone Tikveşli Gıda ve İçecek Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.


ELCA Kozmetik Limited Şirketi


Kosan Kozmetik Pazarlama ve Ticaret A.Ş. in affiliation with Yves Rocher Group


Bandırma Gübre Fabrikaları A.Ş.


LGETK


Yelp, Inc.


Yandex LLC


Work highlights


  • Representing LGETK within the scope of the investigation launched in relation to an alleged resale price maintenance violation.
  • Representing Danone Tikveşli within the scope of the investigation launched against undertakings operating in the FMCG sector.
  • Representing BAGFAŞ within the scope of the investigation launched against undertakings operating in the fertilizer market.

Gedik & Eraksoy

The competition practice at Gedik & Eraksoy assists a client roster of domestic and multinational corporates in manufacturing, banking, tech, aviation and education, with matters involving merger control, state aid, distribution systems, abuse of dominance and cartels. The group is led by counsel Süleyman Cengiz, a former employee of the Turkish Competition Authority, who draws on two and a half decades of experience handling competition law issues. The team is supported at the associate level by İpek İnce, who provides competition trainings to clients.

Practice head(s):

Suleyman Cengiz


Other key lawyers:

İpek İnce


Testimonials

‘Suleyman Cengiz is an excellent competition lawyer with many years of experience, gained at private practice and, in particular, at the Turkish Competition Authority. He is a very diligent lawyer with deep legal expertise, which he excellently applies to the practical and business issues of his clients.’

 

Key clients

BSH Hausgeräte GmbH


Advent International


Work highlights


  • Advised a multinational technology company in relation to the Turkish Competition Board’s investigation into the digital sector, including on its compliance process relating to certain issues in Turkey.
  • Representing BSH Hausgeräte GmbH on both its ongoing investigation and its commitment procedure regarding restrictions imposed on authorised dealers on sales over online platforms.
  • Acting for a public petroleum and natural gas company in multiple merger control procedures before the Turkish Competition Authority.

Gen Temizer Ozer

The competition team at Gen Temizer Ozer provides a comprehensive service to domestic and multinational corporates across sectors ranging from building materials, tech, retail, real estate and life sciences to chemicals, oil and gas. The group’s full offering covers day-to-day competition law assistance, litigation, merger control filings and internal investigations. The practice is headed by Bulut Girgin , elected to the firm's partnership in May 2023, who brings extensive experience representing companies before the Turkish Competition Board and administrative courts. Key support is provided at the associate level by Simru Tayfun and Orçun Horozoğlu.

Practice head(s):

Bulut Girgin


Other key lawyers:

Simru Tayfun; Orçun Horozoğlu


Testimonials

‘Bulut Girgin is very responsive, proactive and helpful. He gives practical advice.’

‘The Gen Temizer Özer competition law team lead by Bulut Girgin is excellent. It provides very pragmatic and well-founded competition law advice.’

‘Bulut Girgin possesses expertise in all competition matters. He is extremely responsive and very pragmatic in his approach. Clients like working with Bulut. At the associate level, Simru Tayfun stands out with excellent competition law expertise.’

‘Simru Tayfun is an expert in competition filing.’

‘Bulut Girgin is always available and ready to support. His commercial sense provides added-value to the service.’

Key clients

Alfardan


BP


Castrol


Dahua Technology


Eni


Eren Perakende (Lacoste, Burberry, Converse)


Euglena


Hacı Ömer Sabancı Holding


Herbert Smith Freehills


Invest Unternehmensbeteiligungs


Melecs


Murat Ticaret


Petroleum Nasional Berhad (Petronas)


Pia Bilişim


Raiffeisen


Ravago Chemicals


Siemens


Sisal Şans


Torunlar GYO


Vivense


Votorantim


Work highlights


  • Successfully defended Votorantim, a cement and concrete company in the Anatolian Cement Investigation of the Turkish Competition Board, where the investigation was concluded without fines or other sanctions.
  • Defended Vivense, a furniture company in the labour market investigation.
  • Represented Torunlar Enerji, a subsidiary of Torunlar GYO, a real estate investment trust, in terms of the merger control filing before the Turkish Competition Authority with respect to its acquisition of joint control over AKCEZ

Gün + Partners

The competition group at Gün + Partners advises a client base of corporates at the national and international levels spanning sectors ranging from pharmaceuticals, biotech and insurance to renewables, beverages, retail and aerospace. The practice is headed by Özge Atılgan Karakulak and Begüm Yavuzdoğan Okumus, who bring experience to representing clients before the Competition Authority in response to investigations and filings.

Practice head(s):

Özge Atılgan Karakulak; Begüm Yavuzdoğan Okumuş


Testimonials

‘Begüm Yavuzdoğan Okumuş is a practical and business-oriented person. She does not complicate things and provides solutions which can be put in practice.’

Key clients

Align Technology


BMS


Beckman


Novo Nordisk


MSD


D Marin


GS YUASA


Biogen


Johnson & Johnson


AON


Takeda


Hergüner Bilgen Üçer Attorney Partnership

The competition law group at Hergüner Bilgen Üçer Attorney Partnership leverages the experience of its team to advise a roster of domestic and multinational businesses, spanning industries ranging from retail, software, beverages and tech to medical devices, insurance, banking and finance. The practice’s full service covers the design of preventative compliance programs, investigations, merger clearance filings, advice on vertical distribution chains and competition litigation. The team’s leadership includes Kayra Üçer, who brings expertise representing clients before the administrative courts; and senior associate and litigator Hazar Başar.

Practice head(s):

Kayra Üçer; Hazar Başar


Key clients

Tadım Gıda Maddeleri San. Ve Tic. A.Ş.


Mavi Giyim San. Ve Tic. A.Ş.


Johnson & Johnson


Nagarro SE


Martı Tech


Akkök Holding


Fiba


Baymak Makine San. Ve Tic. A.Ş.


Work highlights


  • Assists Johnson & Johnson’s Turkish subsidiaries in both the pharmaceutical and consumer healthcare sectors handling all competition law issues arising from their day-to-day business.
  • Assisted Fiba Holding, a conglomerate controlled by Özyeğin Family, with respect to a merger control filing and individual exemption application related to a bank assurance agreement.
  • Assisted Nagarro SE with regard to its entrance into the Turkish market by acquiring 100% of the shares of MBIS.

Moroglu Arseven

Moroglu Arseven utilises a multi-disciplinary approach, pairing its competition practice with is commercial offering to advise domestic multinational corporates on merger control filings, investigations, litigation, and with the design of compliance programs. The firm’s client roster spans such sectors as tobacco, entertainment, consumer goods, building materials, IT and asset management. The team is headed experienced compliance specialists by Seyfi Moroğlu and Burcu Tuzcu Ersin, with key support from senior associate Umay Rona Süerdem.

Practice head(s):

Seyfi Moroğlu; Burcu Tuzcu Ersin


Other key lawyers:

Umay Rona Suerdem


Testimonials

‘Professionals are there whenever needed. They are agile and proactive. ’

‘Umay Rona Suerdem is very diligent and agile.’

SRP-Legal

SRP-Legal specialises in providing comprehensive competition consultancy services to domestic and multinational financial institutions, insurers and corporates across such sectors as manufacturing, e-commerce, IT, energy, building materials, consumer goods. The team’s full service extends to litigation, M&A, investigations by the Competition Authority and compliance projects. The practice is headed by firm founder and managing partner Cigdem Ayozger Ongun, who brings expertise to the IT, telecoms and data protection areas. Key support is provided by senior associate Deniz Erkan. CEO and partner Ayhan Kilinc joined from ASC Law Office in September 2023.

Practice head(s):

Cigdem Ayozger Ongun


Other key lawyers:

Deniz Erkan


Testimonials

‘Working with a business discipline that leaves no room for doubt, SRP team offers comprehensive consultancy services.’

‘SRP-Legal team provided us with a great service. They were responsive and knowledgeable. We are happy to be working with this team.’

‘The SRP-Legal team includes experts with professional having many years of experience and a deep understanding of legal practices.’

‘SRP Legal is a team of experts who successfully overcome extremely difficult and complex projects. Their enthusiasm, hard-work, responsiveness, and business friendly approach without compromising ethical values are admirable to our company.’

Key clients

Has Gida A.S.


Work highlights


  • Filed an application on behalf of Has Gida A.S., the Turkish Competition Authority to initiate an investigation against Unilever Sanayi ve Ticaret Turk A.S., resulting in an imposed fine of over TRY 752m and the requirement to implement structural measures.

TURUNÇ

The team at TURUNÇ assists domestic and multinational corporates, across such sectors as tech, chemicals, software, transport and retail, with competition law preventative management and merger clearances related to multi jurisdictional M&A. The practice is headed by Esin Çamlıbel in Izmir, who brings expertise to handling investigations, M&A and venture capital and private equity investments; and founding partner and cross-border transactional specialist Noyan Turunç in Izmir and Istanbul, who handles complex distribution, franchise and customer contracts. Managing associate Gizem Günel provides key support at the Izmir office.

Practice head(s):

Esin Çamlıbel; Noyan Turunç


Other key lawyers:

Gizem Günel


Testimonials

‘Transparency, trustworthiness, proactive approach, commercial awareness and international know-how. No other firm in Turkey comes close to TURUNÇ’s international experience.’

‘Noyan Turunç delivers legal and commercial advice at once. Esin Çamlıbel has extensive knowledge of competition rules and practices.’

‘Turunç’s competition team are pragmatic problem solvers. Their team is extremely knowledgeable, dedicated and meticulous, all while being very practical and easygoing. Their pragmatism combined with their expertise and depth of know-how is unique.’

‘TURUNÇ has a team of exceptional experts in competition law. Their approach stands out, as they do not provide reactive legal guidance but instead life-saving preventative competition law services. Their track record is impeccable and the commercial benefit to clients is priceless.’

‘Noyan Turunç offers exceptional value to client needs with his commercial savviness and robust legal knowledge. Esin Çamlıbel plays a leading role when it comes to competition-related matters; and she is thorough, technical, communicative and comforting. Her academic background distinguishes her from her rivals.’

‘Esin Camlibel is very knowledgeable. She’s very responsive and hands-on. Her advice is thorough, timely and always clear.’

‘First rate. No different from top US firms. Extremely well-versed in cross-border transactions.’

‘Noyan Turunc: His advice is always solution-oriented and pragmatic. His leadership is what also sets him apart. He manages his team extremely efficiently. Esin Camlibel always gives accurate advice and knows competition board practices very well.’

Key clients

Kamil Koç


Boğaziçi Ventures


Akzo Nobel


SC Johnson


Vinci Venture Capital


Joygame


BigChefs


Vektör Tanıtım


Itochu


Venta Projects


Arya Women Venture Capital


Work highlights


  • Provided merger clearance advice for Kamil Koç on its acquisition of Ses Turizm and Gülen Turizm, two intercity bus operators.
  • Providing comprehensive competition law counsel to SC Johnson for over 18 years, including on consumer protection, distribution agreements and fair advertising matters.
  • Advised BigChefs on the competition law aspects of its international franchise agreements.