Ploum > Rotterdam, Netherlands > Firm Profile
Ploum Offices

BLAAK 28, 3011 TA ROTTERDAM
PO BOX 711
3000 AS ROTTERDAM
Netherlands
Ploum > The Legal 500 Rankings
Netherlands > Transport Tier 1
Ploum specialises in transport and logistics and advises shipping companies and logistic service providers. The group also has expertise in regulatory, corporate and administrative law, and with a notable focus on international customs and trade law. The multi-disciplinary team regularly advises on contract terms and conditions in logistics and shipping, supply chain management, value added logistics, warehousing, freight forwarding and maritime incidents, as well as handling any contentious issues arising from the same. The practice is led by Jikke Biermasz, who specialises in transport, customs, anti-dumping and trade-regulatory matters; Marijn van Tuijl, who is experienced in supply chain management, logistics and carriage of goods disputes; and Albert Wiggers, who focuses on M&A in the transport sector.Practice head(s):
Jikke Biermasz; Marijn van Tuijl; Albert Wiggers
Testimonials
‘Ploum are a great firm to work with on all projects where we have sought specialist Dutch and EU input on complex international trade matters. Ploum are responsive, engaged and look at commercial challenges from all angles. They have a considerable depth in both legal and practical knowledge of cross border transactions.’
‘The people in this team are very professional and are familiar with the specificities of the industry we are in. This results in a great collaboration and result-oriented way of working.’
‘Jikke Biermasz has a strong knowledge of the industry and technical expertise on Customs matters. with a customer friendly approach she delivers high-quality advisory which enables her customers to get the most-favourable outcomes.’
‘Always easily accessible, flexible, thoughtful, excellent knowledge in all disciplines in the logistics sector and beyond.’
‘Jikke Biermasz is very professional and has a thorough legal knowledge. She is also very practical which is important from a business perspective.’
‘The team has extensive knowledge of Transport and Logistics. Not only the legal aspects, but they are also familiar with the day to day businesses of transport and logistics companies, including all customs formalities.’
‘Jikke Biermasz and Marijn van Tuijl are very dedicated to their practice and have extensive up to date knowledge of all aspects of customs law and transport and logistics related legislation.’
‘Very accessible firm, lawyers available at shortest notice, experts on (maritime) transportation- and commercial law and insurance matters with thorough understanding of the practical side of it.’
Key clients
Wintershall Noordzee
Base Logistics
Peinemann
AIG
DSV
Customs Support Group
Hutchison Ports Europe
HES International
Matrans
Maersk
Portbase
APM Terminals
Marlow Navigation
Sea-Cargo
Nedcargo
KGH Customs
Service Terminal Rotterdam
Netherlands > Environment and planning Tier 2
Under the joint leadership of Maayke Maas-Cooymans, praised as ‘in a class of her own‘, and Alexandra Danopoulos, Ploum‘s ‘expert‘ public and environmental law team has a strong reputation for compliance advice, litigation before the administrative courts, and project development work. Also noted are attorneys Brigitte Ebben and Jouko Barensen, who brings expertise in criminal environmental matters.Practice head(s):
Maayke Maas-Cooymans; Alexandra Danopoulos
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The Ploum team’s knowledge base is rock solid and the way they advise fits the client’s needs: so brief, balanced and to the point. The fact that Ploum has a firm industrial client bases in the Rotterdam region is helpful – they know what’s going on.’
‘In-depth knowledge of permitting, able to benchmark with cases from other companies, clear advice on both legal aspects and the visions and perceptions of different stakeholders.’
‘Well-rounded team that truly supplements each other. Focus on practical solutions that get things going again. High level service for boutique costs.’
‘Ploum’s environment and planning practice is very straightforward and practical in the way they support the client. They have the knowledge and theoretical skills, but are able to make the connection to the client’s daily practice.’
‘Maayke Maas is generally recognized as top of the bill in environmental law. She can be reached easily, and knows the needs of the industry.’
‘Alexandra Danopoulos is straightforward, efficient, and passionate about her job. The way she understands the client’s daily practice makes her unique.’
‘Maayke Maas-Cooymans is in a class of her own. She leads the small expert team at Ploum. She is a unique person who has the ability to give spot-on advice in understandable, crisp language. She always walks the extra mile and never lets the client down.’
‘Alexandra Danopoulos has first-hand experience in infrastructure and dredging, and is able to translate her experience to workable legal solutions. A quick thinker with a good sense of our interests: she can easily accommodate her strategy to evolving situations.’
Key clients
BP Alternative Energy Investmenst Ltd
BP International Limited
Evos Amsterdam East B.V.
Nyrstar Budel B.V.
Vitol Services Ltd
Bot Bouw Initiatief B.V.
Corbion
SCW Systems B.V.
Vitol Holding B.V.
CrossWind C.V.
HG International B.V.
Vitol Tank Terminals B.V.
Eurotank Amsterdam B.V.
Eurotank Terminal B.V.
Westpoort Warmte B.V.
OCI Nitrogen B.V.
OCI N.V.
OCI Terminal Europoort B.V.
Havenbedrijf Rotterdam (Rotterdam Port Authority)
Raad voor Accreditatie (Dutch Accrediation Council)
VTTI Nederland B.V.
VTTI B.V.
BP Raffinaderij Rotterdam B.V.
BP Europa SE – BP Nederland
BP Alternative Energy Investmenst Ltd
BP International Limited
CrossWind C.V.
HG International B.V.
Eurotank Amsterdam B.V.
Eurotank Terminal B.V.
Westpoort Warmte B.V.
OCI Nitrogen B.V.
OCI N.V.
OCI Terminal Europoort B.V.
Havenbedrijf Rotterdam (Rotterdam Port Authority)
Raad voor Accreditatie (Dutch Accrediation Council)
VTTI Nederland B.V.
VTTI B.V.
BP Raffinaderij Rotterdam B.V.
BP Europa SE – BP Nederland
CrossWind C.V.
HG International B.V.
Eurotank Amsterdam B.V.
Eurotank Terminal B.V.
Westpoort Warmte B.V.
BAM Vastgoed B.V.
BAM Wonen B.V.
AM Grondbedrijf B.V.
Eneco B.V.
N.V. Nuon
Vattenfall N.V.
NPO (Netherlands Public Broadcasting Institution)
TSH Management B.V. (The Student Hotel)
Municipality of Maassluis
Municipality of Nissewaard
Municipality of Dongen
Municipality of Capelle aan den IJssel
Rekenkamer van de Gemeente Rotterdam (Court of Auditors of the Municipality of Rotterdam)
M7 Real Estate
ATM B.V.
Unilever Nederland B.V.
Remondis Dusseldorp Gevaarlijk Afval B.V.
Vereniging Nederlandse Petroleum Industrie (VNPI)
Motip Dupli B.V.
Damen Shipyards Group N.V.
Rotterdam Airport B.V.
Eindhoven Airport N.V.
VOTOB (Vereniging van Nederlandse Tankopslagbedrijven)
Noord-Europees Wijnopslag Bedrijf B.V.
Hansteen Netherlands B.V.
Jacobs Douwe Egberts NL B.V.
Biopetrol Rotterdam B.V.
Glencore Agriculture B.V.
Rail Service Center Rotterdam B.V.
Gate Terminal B.V.
Van Oord Nederland B.V.
Work highlights
- Advising and representing Shell Nederland Raffinaderij in a lodged appeal against some of the permit requirements included in the necessary permits to build and operate a new biofuel plant.
- Advising Eneco Wind and Shell Gas & Power Developments on regulatory and environmental aspects of the tender for the offshore wind farm permit Hollandse Kust West.
- Advising various companies and organisations on potential legal action against a policy rule of the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT) that regulates the export of fuels to West Africa.
Netherlands > Industry focus: Food Tier 2
Ploum leverages its Rotterdam base to support clients in compliance issues surrounding the import and manufacture of food and animal feed, including pesticide residues, veterinary import controls, microbiology and contamination issues. Marijn van Tuijl represents clients in contractual and liability disputes concerning the manufacture and international trade of goods. Jikke Biermasz focuses on customs and export control matters, and has strong knowledge of customs, anti-dumping and trade-regulatory laws. Dorine ten Brink draws up and negotiates various commercial contracts involving agency, distribution, purchasing and general conditions. Willem Leppink is the key contact for soft IP mandates and Alexandra Danopoulos specialises in environmental law.Practice head(s):
Marijn van Tuijl
Other key lawyers:
Jikke Biermasz; Willem Leppink; Alexandra Danopoulos; Mirjam Louws
Testimonials
‘We work with Ploum in the fields of IP, trade, contracts, manufacturing and logistics. The firm’s down to earth and hands-on approach makes it unique. Ploum is so important for our business because it is exceptionally skilful in its area of expertise and brings complex problems back to workable solutions for companies like us.’
‘The way Ploum’s IP team restructured our branding teams and the way they are protecting our IP is impressive to say the least. They changed the way our global company is looking at branding and the way we should take care of our brands. Legal matters are handled very professionally. I can say with certainty that Ploum’s IP team became invaluable to our business.’
‘Marijn van Tuijl and Mirjam Louws professionalized the way we are contracting our suppliers and pointed out some risks in the area of liability, food safety and financial matters that we were able to avert with their help.’
‘We reached out to Marijn van Tuijl and his team to guide us through setting up a manufacturing division. We are convinced that Ploum is giving us the best advice we can get in the area of trade and production of food. They are trusted partners for a very important part of our business.’
Key clients
Upfield
Pernod Ricard Chivas Regal
LT Foods Europe
Unilever
United Biscuits/ Verkade
Bidfood
Refresco
AIG
Omega Pharma (Perrigo)
Van Sillevoldt Rijst (VSR Rice)
Vergeer Holland
Doens Food International
Royal Zeelandia Group
Nature’s Pride
Cefetra
Schouten Europe
Jacobs Douwe Egberts
Vernof (Association of Dutch Producers of Edible Oils and Fats)
BayWa Agri Supply & Trade
Cefetra
NZV (Netherlands Subtropical Fruits Association)
Bunge
United Dutch Breweries
QAssurance
Suiker Unie
Work highlights
- Successfully challenged a very high fine imposed by the Netherlands Food and Product Safety Authority (NVWA) in the amount of EUR 3.5 million on behalf of an importer of food and feed commodities.
- Assisted Gorillas in various matters after the conversion of their German topholding into a Dutch company, including advice on Dutch corporate law.
- Representing H. van Wijnen both in administrative proceedings against the Dutch regulator NVWA and in civil litigation against a major German retailer.
Netherlands > Insurance Tier 2
Ploum has cemented a strong reputation for handling health, safety and environmental insurance issues, particularly relating to environmental damages claims surrounding hazardous or toxic contaminants. The team is also strong in construction-related insurance matters, specifically in connection with design and build project insurance. D&O liability is also an area of expertise for the firm, where it represents corporate officers and directors. The firm is also recognised for representing accountants in professional liability claims. The practice is led by Natalie Vloemans, former president of the Dutch Arbitration Association and an experienced insurance practitioner with specific expertise in the petrochemical sector as it relates to environmental damage.Practice head(s):
Natalie Vloemans
Key clients
VolkerWessels
SAAone (Construction consortium of VolkerWessels)
QBE UK
Heijmans
BAAK Blankenburg BV
Boskalis
TBI
Allianz
NKM (Reel)
Waal Bouw
AIG
HDI Global Specialty
AXA France
Xenics
KBC
NPO (Nederlandse Publieke Omroep/Dutch Broadcasting
Union)
Deloitte
Swiss Re
Renewi (ATM)
Chemours
Engie (Equans)
Bergbanket
Media Markt
Klap No Risk B.V.
Work highlights
- Assisting Koole in an insurance claim against several co-insurers following the shutdown of the Odfjell terminal in 2012.
- Advising SAAone in insurance dispites in connection with CAR insurance and Pl Insurance.
- Assisted, at the request of Pl insurer Klap No Risk B.V., an insurance broker facing multiple claims in relation to the coronavirus pandemic.
Netherlands > Energy: transactional Tier 3
The energy group at Ploum has historic strength in the oil and gas sector, and is extending its reach into renewables, including the developing area of hydrogen as well as solar and wind. Maayke Maas-Cooymans specialises in public and environmental law, while experienced corporate and commercial partner Stephan Sluijters leads on transactional mandates, and receives praise from clients as a ‘dealmaker and a real expert‘.Practice head(s):
Stephan Sluijters; Jolande van Loon; Maayke Maas-Cooymans
Other key lawyers:
Geert de Nijs
Testimonials
‘Ploum’s energy transactional practice is characterized by always putting the client’s need first while achieving the best deal possible for them. Particularly noteworthy is the exceptional sector expertise and the commitment to handle even difficult transactions at short notice to the client’s utmost satisfaction.’
‘Great team. They are hands on with a very practical approach and all and all are just very nice to work with.’
‘One-stop shop with all skills and competencies required in the sector available. Great communication and relationship management.’
‘Full service firm with deep energy sector knowledge. Great track record for energy work in the broadest sense. Ploum really handles the full spectrum of energy and corporate related work for both domestic and multinational clients. Go-to-firm with can-do mentality.’
‘Stephan Sluijters has great knowledge of the industry, he is there when you need him and he understands the client’s business interests very well.’
‘The team around Stephan Sluijters is very committed, and engages with clients and counterparts in a professional and friendly manner. Team members are diligent, available and willing to understand the business side, which makes this team a good and pragmatic partner.’
‘Stephan Sluijters is strong in energy-related matters and has a pragmatic approach. Good dealmaker and a real expert. Ready to go the extra mile to get the best result for the client. Very pleasant and to-the-point communication.’
‘Geert de Nijs supports projects in an excellent manner: he is not only strong and creative on the strict legal merits but also has a good eye for dimensions such as the relationship between shareholders and its possible evolution over the years, which is equally invaluable advice.’
Key clients
Eneco N.V.
European Energy A/S
Joulz / Zonel
NoordZeeWind C.V.
BayWa r.e. / GroenLeven
Vattenfall
COVA
Deltalinqs
COVA – The Netherlands Petroleum Stockpiling Agency
BP
VNPI / VOPAK
Vattenfall
CrossWind – Joint Venture of Shell and Eneco
ABN AMRO Sustainable Impact Fund
Joulz
Social Investment Managers and Advisors, LLC (SIMA) and Angaza (Angaza)
Work highlights
- Advised BayWa r.e. / GroenLeven on the development and sale of various solar parks to various investors as well as other projects.
- Advised Shell on its acquisition of MS Tolls from Trevipay.
- Advised ABN AMRO Energy Transition Fund on its divestment of MP Solar.
Netherlands > Intellectual property: trade marks, copyrights and design rights Tier 3
Ploum‘s IP team represents clients in the automotive, technology, luxury goods, outdoor, food and beverage, and tobacco industries in a range of mandates. Department head Willem Leppink collaborates with Sabin Tigu on anti-counterfeiting and anti-parallel trade matters. The pair are noted by several clients for their leadership skills and pan-European trade mark law knowledge. Dennis Zieren focuses on copyright work and is key advisor for Dutch public and commercial broadcasting companies.Practice head(s):
Willem Leppink; Sabin Tigu
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Ploum has an excellent local network and therefore excellent market knowledge. Very professional handling of cases, excellent responsiveness and thorough knowledge of IP.’
‘For years, our key contacts have been renowned senior partner Willem Leppink and Sabin Tigu. We greatly appreciate this collaboration, especially their enormous commitment, their will to always achieve more than the competitors, their enormous experience and the passion with which they practice their profession. We are always impressed by how quickly they are able to present convincing solutions even in the most difficult matters.’
‘I have worked with Ploum and also referred a number of my clients to them. I always receive great feedback. They deliver great client service. Their advice is clear and to the point. They consider the bigger picture and the commercial context and not simply the letter of the law.’
‘Willem Leppink is an outstanding partner. He is considered, thorough and diligent in providing expert advice that really seeks to achieve the client’s goals. Sabin Tigu is great to work with. He has a great manner with clients and has an in-depth knowledge of trade mark law.’
‘Ploum’s team is our No. 1 partner for all soft IP-issues in the Netherlands. They are very knowledgeable, and they always deliver promptly.’
‘Willem and Sabin have a great team of young lawyers that all have the same solution driven, pragmatic approach. With this team we can have an efficient way of dealing with online and domain name issues.’
‘Willem and Sabin both are very trustworthy, approachable and hands-on lawyers. To the point and willing to think with the business rather than only from a legal point of view.’
‘You can absolutely trust Willem Leppink’s advice. He has a high-level perception of EU-trademark law.’
Key clients
Ahoy
Andy Warhol Foundation for the visual arts
Arli Group
Batenburg
Beachbody
Ladder
Openfit
Benbits
Bidfood
Control Union
Coty
Customs Support
Dataflex International
Donna Karan
Duru Bulgur
Ford Motor Company
Groenleven
Harley-Davidson
Heineken
Hemsson
Honda
Jacobs Douwe Egberts
Japan Tobacco
Kelvion
Koninklijke Verkade
Koole
Libéma,
LRC
Mastronardi
Medical Pet Shirts
Museum Boijmans van Beuningen
Nature’s pride
The Nomad Company B.V.
Pjur Group Luxembourg S.A.
Prescan
PUIG
Richemont SL
Rivian
Robeco
Renewi
Samsung
Satelliet Meubelen B.V.
Snap Inc.
Tenzinger
TUI
Under Armour
UNIT4
Upfield
Vattenval
Wella
Western Digital
Work highlights
- Coordinating Western Digital’s pan-EU battle against counterfeits and parallel trade in its products on all European online market places.
- Representing Coty against Easycosmetic in a trade mark matter involving packaging boxes before the Supreme Court.
- Representing Robeco against Milieudefensie (an environmental action group) before the Dutch Advertising Standards Committee, regarding sustainability claims related to investments in palm oil.
Netherlands > Data privacy and data protection Tier 4
Rotterdam-based firm Ploum‘s data privacy and protection practice is led by Dennis Zieren and Dorine ten Brink, two experienced IT and privacy practitioners. Senior associate Nina Witt specialises in healthcare sector privacy matters, including advising on data processing activities, compliance and data processing agreements, as well as data breaches and data protection impact assessments.Practice head(s):
Dennis Zieren, Dorine ten Brink
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The proactive approach and the fact that they always put our interests first has been a great pleasure for us.’
‘Excellent team. Wonderful service and advice. Easy to work with and hands-on. Very client focused.’
‘Dennis Zieren gives you everything needed to be in an optimal position. A go-to person for data privacy and data protection-related matters. Fast, hands-on and client focused. Easy to work with.’
‘Specific knowledge of the business and my company as well as in-depth knowledge on privacy and data protection.’
‘Committed and expert lawyers. Lots of knowledge in-house. Pleasant people to work with, always an opportunity to spar. Think along with the organisation.’
‘Extensive knowledge in specific areas of law. The lawyers listen carefully to what you want and are very involved. They are always easily accessible to answer questions.’
‘The internal fast-tracking and the cooperation of teams within Ploum’s organisation significantly accelerated the project.’
Key clients
BovenMaas Prenataal B.V.
Centrient Pharmaceuticals Netherlands B.V.
Codeless Technology B.V.
Coöperatie Univé Het Groene Hart U.A.
Service App B.V.
Heineken Nederland B.V.
Koole Terminals B.V.
Nemo Healthcare B.V.
ONE-Dyas B.V.
Portbase B.V.
Stephens & Associates, Ltd.
Stichting Kunsthal Rotterdam
Stichting NBD Biblion
Tamoil Nederland B.V.
Unilever N.V.
Unit4 N.V.
Vrumona B.V.
Young Perfect B.V. (Eatertainment)
Work highlights
- Advised Heineken Nederland on several privacy matters regarding the processing of personal data relating to marketing activities and events.
- Advising Stitching Krunsthal Rotterdam on data processing activities and carried out a data protection impact assessment.
- Advised BovenMas Prenataal on several privacy matters concerning sharing medical information with other healthcare specialists.
Netherlands > Dispute resolution: Commercial litigation Tier 4
The dispute resolution team at Ploum focuses on commercial and corporate litigation as well as insurance, construction and real estate disputes. Key contact for insurance companies Maurice Verhoeven handles professional, D&O liability and shareholders disputes, and Natalie Vloemans represents clients in the petrochemicals and construction industries in insurance claims. Head of the competition law practice Michel Jacobs deals with cartel cases, while Dorine ten Brink is involved in civil proceedings involving IT issues.Practice head(s):
Maurice Verhoeven
Other key lawyers:
Natalie Vloemans; Michel Jacobs; Dorine ten Brink; Vincent Terlouw; Thomas Munnik; Nicole de Boer; Matthijs Gardien; Suzanne Poutsma
Testimonials
‘Ploum is always very responsive to questions and requests for assistance. They offer a pro-active approach to the issue at hand.’
‘Michel Jacobs shows all qualities which clients of big law firms are asking for.’
‘Matthijs Gardien is young and energetic. He responds very quickly to questions and communicates very well.’
‘Thomas Munnik and Maurice Verhoeven are always available and on top of things.’
‘Matthijs Gardien has a no nonsense and problem-solving attitude. He makes sure all ways to resolve a dispute are being discussed. If litigation is necessary, he is a seasoned professional who takes the initiative and gets the best result possible for his clients. He is also pleasant to work with.’
‘High quality lawyers, very good collaboration and communication.’
‘Suzanne Poutsma, attorney-at-law and part of Michel Jacobs’ team, shows high ability in litigation in complex matters with foreign jurisdictions. Very smart, very fast and friendly.’
‘Dorine ten Brink and Suzanne Poutsma stand out.’
Key clients
Deloitte Accountants B.V.
AIG Europe Limited, Netherlands
HDI Global Speciality
Chemours
L.J. Boer Beheer B.V.
SAAone B.V.
Koninklijke Volker Wessels Stevin N.V.
Koole Tankstorage Botlek B.V.
Odfjell Terminals B.V.
Peterson Control Union
Klap No Risk B.V.
QBE UK
Bergbanket B.V.
Liander N.V.
Xenics
ATM B.V.
Renewi Nederland B.V.
Stichting Loterij Incasso
TUI Nederland N.V.
Liesker Procesfinanciering B.V.
Work highlights
- Defending Klap No Risk against a claim for damages by event organisers for allegedly not having taken care for an insurance policy for certain events that have been cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Representing L.J. Boer Beheer B.V.in inquiry proceedings before the Enterprise Chamber of the Court of Appeal in Amsterdam.
- Representing Chemours and DuPont in litigation against four municipalities that claim compensation for C8 (PFOA) and GenX related contamination.
Netherlands > Commercial, corporate and M&a Tier 5
Based in Rotterdam, the corporate practice at Ploum has strong expertise in the energy sector, with other key sectors of focus including transport and logistics, insurance, software and media. Albert Wiggers, who assists clients in setting up businesses in the Netherlands, in addition to acquisitions and contractual matters, jointly leads the team alongside Tom Ensink. Other key contacts include ‘deal savvy’ Stephan Sluijters and Jeroen Terstegge, who is ‘always on the ball’.Practice head(s):
Albert Wiggers; Tom Ensink
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Strong team with an outstanding track record, client driven and very easy to work with. Truly first-class.’
‘Jeroen Terstegge is brilliant lawyer, very supportive, providing clear guidance, practical and commercial application of the advice. Always on the ball and very easy to deal with.’
‘Stephan Sluijters is deal savvy. Smart lawyer, very professional and willing to go the extra mile.’
‘Good lawyers, to the point and on top of their game.’
‘All are responsive and flexible.’
Key clients
Shell
Gorillas
Upfield
Unilever
International Data Corporation
Fagron
SLR Consulting
European Energy
Eneco
BayWa re
ABN AMRO Sustainable Impact Fund
BP
Groenleven
ACE Pharmaceuticals
Hutchison Whampoa
Atlas Copco
Ecclesia Holding
Netherlands > Employment Tier 5
Rotterdam-based Ploum has a strong focus on employment matters affecting clients in heavy industry, in addition to advising on issues in other sectors. Founding and managing partner Rutger Ploum leads the practice along with Simon Tan. Both are experienced practitioners in employment law, including dispute resolution and non-contentious advisory matters.Practice head(s):
Rutger Ploum; Simon Tan
Other key lawyers:
Michelle Westhoeve; Kim Prooij
Testimonials
‘Excellent support in the specific circumstances of closing a business and developing a suitable social plan. Excellent support at the negotiation table and in preparation for the case.’
‘Experience in similar situations, good listening skills, able to respond promptly.’
‘Very good and committed lawyers.’
‘Very good advice and answers at short notice.’
‘Rutger Ploum is not only an expert but has excellent qualities in his relationships with the client and the other parties. He always reacts fast and involves colleagues if necessary. He’s a good lawyer to work with.’
‘Michelle Westhoeve and Kim Prooji are experts in this area of law – very productive, accurate and nice people to work with.’
‘Simon Tan is an excellent lawyer and trusted adviser. He is our go-to lawyer for all labour law-related matters. He has seen it all and is always there when you need him. He is able to provide to-the-point and excellent advice, and is very experienced, knowledgeable, efficient, calm and a safe pair of hands. Simon never loses sight of the bigger picture, while keeping an eye on the important details. He is easily able to cope with all circumstances.’
‘Strong team with outstanding track record, client driven and very easy to work with.’
Key clients
Unilever
Aluchemie
APM Terminals
One-Dyas
Arbo Unie
Atlas Copco
Allianz
Essent
Nutreco
Nature’s Pride
KPMG Meijburg
Marlow
NIBC Bank
Bastion Hotels
Ecorys
Kunsthal Rotterdam
ODS
Performation HOTflo
ChyronHego
Scarabee
Work highlights
- Advising on a day-to-day basis on a wide array of employment issues, including privacy and co-determination matters, for Unilever.
- Advising Aluchemieon on a wide array of issues, including the intended shutdown of the Aluchemie plant, which involves negotiating a social plan with the trade unions, assisting in the works council advisory process, drafting documents and providing day-to-day advice regarding this project.
- Advising APM Terminals on various high-profile employment and co-determination issues, including the works council advisory process regarding the sale of APM Terminals Rotterdam B.V. to Hutchison Ports.
Netherlands > Construction
Ploum > Firm Profile
The firm: Founded in 1995 as one of the first break-away firms in the Netherlands, Ploum is not an average law firm. Its clients will confirm that it is significantly different. The firms strives to support businesses in achieving their objectives. Combining know-how and practical experience to its clients’ advantage is its talent.
The firm focuses on business clients, including national and international organisations in all shapes and sizes – from small businesses to local government bodies, from listed companies to national government. The 85-plus lawyers and notaries at Ploum understand what business is about and know what is important. The firm focuses on what matters to business and helping clients achieve their goals swiftly and smoothly. Solving real puzzles is what drives Ploum. Within the traditional world of the legal professions, the firm sets itself apart by analysing issues with a fresh and open mind and providing solutions, not advice. Its reasonable rates, in addition to this pragmatic way of working, mean clients find Ploum a perfect alternative to bigger firms.
Areas of practice: Ploum has all the relevant legal knowledge and experience to be able to advise organizations.
Banking and finance: the team advises on complex financing arrangements as well as on mainstream financing arrangements, both on behalf of issuers and debtors. In addition, Ploum advises on financial services and regulatory matters.
Corporate and M&A: Ploum has an experienced M&A team consisting of seven partners (including notaries) and a pool of experienced associates. We assist buyers and sellers on a daily basis, in deals in a wide variety of sectors, and advise on the whole M&A process. We also regularly act for private equity funds and other investors.
Real estate: our lawyers and civil-law notaries are specialized in all matters relating to real estate. We advise on any property-related project, and will be able to identify the various legal points of attention. Our sole aim in this respect is to find a feasible solution for each organization – efficiently and with an eye on the costs.
Construction: the Construction lawyers working at Ploum add significant value to the projects on which we advise. We advise in complex and high-value infrastructure projects and across all major sectors such as oil and gas, renewable energy, transport and industrial real estate. Our team of Construction lawyers works for – amongst others – national and international contractors, project developers, consultants, government authorities, engineers, architects and other public- and private-sector clients.
Employment: our specialists will advise on every imaginable aspect of individual and collective employment-law matters. Examples include collective labour agreements, appointment or dismissal of directors under the articles of association, strikes or amendments to pension schemes. Our lawyers can also help in the event of reorganisation, restructuring, mergers, takeovers, outsourcing or insourcing.
Administrative, environment and planning: at Ploum, our specialists in general administrative law will be happy to advise and assist in objection and appeal proceedings relating to administrative law and covering a wide variety of matters, including the granting of subsidies, enforcement, public access to government information, government liability and, of course, environmental law. In addition to our hands-on approach, we are especially aware of the political and administrative context in matters pertaining to administrative law.
Fraud and white-collar crime: do you require advice and legal assistance for your company, management or staff in criminal proceedings relating to the environment, industrial and work place accidents, road and water transport, fraud, duties to report, internal investigations and compliance? At Ploum, our team of white-collar crime lawyers has in-depth experience in advising and assisting companies in sectors such as construction, chemistry, petrochemistry, industrial manufacture, IT and transport.
Intellectual property: at Ploum, our specialists can advise and assist in protecting your intellectual property rights. For example, we can file your trademarks and designs with the official authorities worldwide and we can also investigate a trademark’s national and international availability.
Insurance and liability: at Ploum we have in-depth knowledge of insurance practice and we provide advice and assistance on all aspects of insurance: from financial supervision to developing insurance products and from contractual spreading of liability risks to settling claims. Our clients in this field include insurance companies, intermediaries, insured companies, government authorities and experts.
Restructuring and insolvency: if your company or organisation is facing considerable financial problems, either existing or imminent, you – as a director, supervisory director, shareholder or bank – have urgent need of an advisor that focuses on providing some breathing space. At Ploum, our specialists will provide you with fast and effective assistance. We will draw up an action plan – in consultation with you – for one or more of the following, depending on the situation your company is facing.
Transport: as a “Rotterdam law firm” Ploum is of course very active in the Transport & Logistics sector. This sector is one of the most important drivers of the Dutch economy. The companies in this sector are facing major challenges. Laws and regulations are becoming increasingly strict, for example in the areas of the environment, security and privacy. Important social developments such as the Brexit, digitisation and the energy transition will have a major impact on this sector. In Rotterdam, the Second Maasvlakte offers opportunities, but also poses challenges for businesses, while congestion continues to keep the port in its grip. Ploum’s specialists are at your service in difficult times as well as in periods of growth. We act for transhipment companies, transport companies, logistic service providers, storage companies, (customs) forwarders, shipping companies, shipyards, producers and distributors of means of transport, logistic temporary employment agencies, and other service providers in the sector.
Privacy: since its establishment in 1995, our firm has an established name in the field of IT and privacy law. We keep track of all relevant developments and will be happy to provide you with a concrete and appropriate advice. Apart from the GDPR, other rules and frameworks are also important, such as national implementation laws (in the Netherlands: UAVG), the Dutch Telecommunications Act and laws and several legislation and guidelines in the field of healthcare, IT law, intellectual property law or employment law. Ploum has a relatively large privacy team that deals with privacy law on a daily basis, whereby each lawyer has his or her own (additional) specialisation. For example, we have specific knowledge of privacy in the healthcare sector and in the workplace. We all have a passion for the IT and privacy practice and combine this with our specific expertise. Where necessary, we also consult with our colleagues from the corporate law section and/or the bankruptcy law section. Because we have all this expertise in-house, we can switch quickly and provide you with sound – and pragmatic – advice.
Energy: our Team Energy can advise you on how to interpret legislation and regulations and on the options they offer you. As specialists in all the relevant legal areas, we all work closely together and we have the necessary knowledge of the energy market to place at the disposal of big energy companies and new businesses alike. We can advise and assist you in the event of mergers and acquisitions, buying and selling onshore and offshore wind farms, and all kinds of storage projects. We act as permanent notary to grid companies, and we supervise network registrations too. In addition, we can handle transfers of ownership for you, as well as transfers of real rights in connection with installations such as CHPs and transformer stations, cables and wiring. And we also support adjoining sectors such as water and infrastructure, and the waste sector in particular. We supervise M&A transactions and advise on regulations and environmental law. We are an active member of the Netherlands Energy Law Association (NeVER), and our lawyers regularly attend events focusing on the latest developments on the energy market.
Food: the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (hereinafter ‘NVWA’) supervises companies that manufacture, import, and market products. It seems obvious that the products that are being sold should be safe to use. In practice, however, this often proves to be a difficult issue. When is a product considered unsafe? Who decides this and what happens if NVWA’s assessment of the matter differs from that of the company itself? Internationally, our practice is part of the Food Lawyers Network and the Greenlane network of firms specialised in international trade and customs law. This allows us to assist our clients quickly and effectively when needed, both in other EU member states and beyond.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Administrative, environmental law and spatial planning | Maayke Maas-Cooymans | m.maas@ploum.nl | +31 6 5130 5726 |
Asset finance | Stan Commissaris | s.commissaris@ploum.nl | +31 6 2269 3313 |
Asset finance | Jolande van Loon | j.vanloon@ploum.nl | +31 6 2248 1815 |
Banking & finance | Tom Ensink | t.ensink@ploum.nl | +31 6 2269 3378 |
Commercial contracts | Dorine ten Brink | d.tenbrink@ploum.nl | +31 6 2269 3380 |
Commercial contracts | Dennis Zieren | d.zieren@ploum.nl | +31 6 2269 3357 |
Commercial litigation and arbitration | Dorine ten Brink | d.tenbrink@ploum.nl | +31 6 2269 3380 |
Commercial litigation and arbitration | Maurice Verhoeven | m.verhoeven@ploum.nl | +31 6 2036 4060 |
Real estate | Stan Commissaris | s.commissaris@ploum.nl | +31 6 2269 3313 |
Real estate | Anton van den Heuvel | a.vandenheuvel@ploum.nl | +31 6 5118 9793 |
Construction | Jacob Henriquez | j.henriquez@ploum.nl | +31 6 1210 1368 |
Competition and EU | Michel Jacobs | m.jacobs@ploum.nl | +31 6 2248 1779 |
Corporate and M&A | Tom Ensink | t.ensink@ploum.nl | +31 6 2269 3378 |
Corporate and M&A | Nick Hessels | n.hessels@ploum.nl | +31 6 2269 3330 |
Corporate and M&A | Stephan Sluijters | s.sluijters@ploum.nl | +31 6 5108 0247 |
Corporate and M&A | Albert Wiggers | a.wiggers@ploum.nl | +31 6 2074 1081 |
Fraud and white-collar crime | Jouko Barensen | j.barensen@ploum.nl | +31 6 1098 1063 |
Corporate recovery | Vincent Terlouw | v.terlouw@ploum.nl | +31 6 5112 0296 |
Energy | Stephan Sluijters | s.sluijters@ploum.nl | +31 6 5108 0247 |
Energy | Jolande van Loon | j.vanloon@ploum.nl | +31 6 2248 1815 |
Energy | Maayke Maas-Cooymans | m.maas@ploum.nl | +31 6 5130 5726 |
Employment and co-determination | Rutger Ploum | r.ploum@ploum.nl | +31 6 2269 3315 |
Estate planning | Jolande van Loon | j.vanloon@ploum.nl | +31 6 2248 1815 |
Care | Dennis Zieren | d.zieren@ploum.nl | +31 6 2269 3357 |
Care | Michel Jacobs | m.jacobs@ploum.nl | +31 6 2248 1779 |
Care | Stan Commissaris | s.commissaris@ploum.nl | +31 6 2269 3313 |
IT and privacy | Dorine ten Brink | d.tenbrink@ploum.nl | +31 6 2269 3380 |
IT and privacy | Dennis Zieren | d.zieren@ploum.nl | +31 6 2269 3357 |
Insurance | Natalie Vloemans | n.vloemans@ploum.nl | +31 6 3023 0260 |
Insurance | Maurice Verhoeven | m.verhoeven@ploum.nl | +31 6 2036 4060 |
Intellectual property and marketing | Willem Leppink | w.leppink@ploum.nl | +31 6 2021 0504 |
Joint ventures | Nick Hessels | n.hessels@ploum.nl | +31 6 2269 3330 |
Procurement | Dennis Zieren | d.zieren@ploum.nl | +31 6 2269 3357 |
Transport | Marijn van Tuijl | m.vantuijl@ploum.nl | +31 6 5179 2238 |
Transport | Albert Wiggers | a.wiggers@ploum.nl | +31 6 2074 1081 |
Transport | Jikke Biermasz | j.biermasz@ploum.nl | +31 6 5200 5916 |
Food | Marijn van Tuijl | m.vantuijl@ploum.nl | +31 6 5179 2238 |
Meet The Team(s)
Lawyer Profiles
- Transport
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Environment and planning
- Industry focus: Food
- Insurance