Van Bael & Bellis pairs ‘technical excellence with strong commercial insight’ and is a regular port of call for clients in the technology and food sectors. A ’dedicated and client-oriented’ advisor, Michel Bonne heads the practice. Bonne and Hannelore Matthys act for multinational clients across the food, technology, and life sciences segments on high-value M&A, joint ventures, and takeover bids. Caroline Daout and Virginie Lescot act for major multinational energy, infrastructure, and industrial companies on M&A, restructuring, and post-M&A disputes.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Very hands-on. They understand the customer's needs and have a pragmatic approach.'
- 'The team has an excellent professional knowledge at every level. Very smooth and direct communication, accessible at all times.'
- 'The team was very quick, yet diligent and proactive. Extraordinary project management and stewardship.'
- 'The team combines technical excellence with strong commercial insight and hands-on partner involvement. They are pragmatic, responsive, and solution-oriented, providing clear guidance even in complex situations.'
- 'Michel Bonne is a dedicated and client-oriented legal advisor. His creative and out-of-the-box thinking allows him to devise innovative solutions tailored to each client's unique situation.'
- 'Caroline Daout is always very reactive and knows how to maintain an efficient team.'
Key clients
- Argos Withyu
- Bidfood
- Campofrio
- Exact Group
- FrieslandCampina
- Gedeon Richter
- GETEC
- Griffith Foods
- Indigo Group
- InVivo Group (Moulins Soufflet)
- Jan De Nul
- Parcom
Work highlights
Advising FrieslandCampina on a landmark cross-border merger with Milcobel, creating a leading international dairy cooperative with over €14bn in pro forma revenue.
Advising Indigo Group on its acquisition of an underground parking facility in Leuven, Belgium.
Advised Shipit on the competitive auction process organised by HES International for the acquisition of a 70% stake in Somef, a key inland terminal operator in Wallonia.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Michel Bonne
Other key lawyers
Caroline Daout; Hannelore Matthys; Virginie Lescot