The life sciences sector is a core area of strength for practice head Ombline Ancelin and the team at Simmons & Simmons. The group frequently advises major pharmaceuticals and medical device companies – in addition to key names in the FMCG, e-commerce, tech and energy sectors – in relation to selective distribution networks, cartel and abuse of dominance investigations, merger control and FDI filings, and competition compliance.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Good international firm, offering a very good distribution, consumer law and competition department. Ombline Ancelin is a very dynamic partner, with a great ability to negotiate with authorities.'
- 'Extreme competence in legal matters, taking into account the relevant economic aspects in an objective, constructive and reassuring manner. Ombline Ancelin stands out for these qualities, and her experience, her rigour and her dynamism.'
- 'A highly structured and stable team. Their knowledge of our business allows them to provide precise and appropriate answers. A strong internal communication culture allows them to draw on the skills of other departments, if necessary.'
- 'Ombline Ancelin and Florent Barbu understand our sector and the specifics of our business. They always seek to understand the business logic behind the project. This allows for a tailored and effective response.'
- 'The team are excellent: very aware of the client's needs and the reality of their business, and therefore pragmatic in their advice.'
- 'Ombline Ancelin: She gives pragmatic, concise advice, presented in a very clear way that saves time. She is very responsive.'
Key clients
- PLUXEE FRANCE (GROUPE SODEXO)
- INSULET FRANCE
- HONEYWELL
- COOPER CONSUMER HEALTH
- WHYLOT
- CSL SEQIRUS
Work highlights
Representing Pluxee France in its defence in all private enforcement claims initiated based on the 2019 decision of the French Competition Authority against the meal voucher issuers, which imposed a total fine of €126m on Pluxee France, jointly with Sodexo.
Advised Honeywell on the French foreign direct investment filing requirements in connection with the divestiture of its Personal Protective Equipment business to Protective Industrial Products, Inc.
Advised Cooper Consumer Health on the numerous distribution issues arising out of its acquisition of the Over the Counter business of Viatris Inc for approximately $2bn.
Practice head
Ombline Ancelin
Other key lawyers
Florent Barbu