Managing partner Agnieszka Janicka spearheads the ‘extremely strong international practice’ at Clifford Chance, which boasts an impressive client roster consisting of global corporates, investment funds, banks, and local blue chip companies seeking to invest in Poland, as well as the wider CEE region. Cross-border mandates are a key part of this group’s offering, and it also assists with regulatory matters. Marcin Bartnicki has been developing the department’s technology M&A capabilities and is consequently a key name for technology, e-commerce, and gaming sector clients. Private equity expert Wojciech Polz is another notable name in the department, in addition to counsel Krzysztof Hajdamowicz, who is strong in TMT-related matters, and counsel Karol Kulhawik, who is experienced in implementing corporate governance structures.
Commercial, corporate and M&A in Poland
Clifford Chance
Practice head(s):
Agnieszka Janicka
Other key lawyers:
Marcin Bartnicki; Wojciech Polz; Paweł Puacz; Tomasz Derda; Krzysztof Hajdamowicz; Nick Fletcher; Iwona Terlecka; Karol Kulhawik
Testimonials
‘Extremely strong international practice.’
‘Karol Kulhawik has led a complex multinational M&A transaction with outstanding leadership and professionalism.’
‘CC professionalism and expertise gave us confidence that we were in good hands, and we knew that they were always looking out for our company’s best interests. Overall, we were impressed with CC and feel privileged to have had their expertise on our side throughout the critical process.’
‘We have full confidence in recommending Wojciech Polz and the team to anyone seeking legal assistance in the future.’
‘Wojciech Polz was a critical member of our team and demonstrated exceptional commitment throughout the process. One of the most impressive things about Wojciech was his ability to understand our company’s unique needs and tailor the approach accordingly.’
‘Wojciech Polz went above and beyond to ensure that our interests were well represented during negotiations and took great care to ensure that the terms of the deal aligned with our expectations.’
‘Karol Kulhawik played a crucial role in the initial phase of a transaction in which our company was involved. Karol’s knowledge and expertise proved invaluable in preparing the first drafts of the transaction documentation, which set the foundation for a successful negotiation process.’
‘Thanks to Karol Kulhawik’s extensive experience and attention to detail, the initial document prepared was of exceptional quality, meeting our company’s expectations precisely. This enabled us to establish a negotiation framework that was efficient and effective, and we were able to significantly reduce the time required to finalise the deal.’
Key clients
Waterland Private Equity
Mitsui
RTB House
Giza Polish Ventures
Sibelco
Vitol
R.Power
Norsk Hydro
Airbus Defence and Space
Abris Capital Partners
TotalEnergies
United Petfood Group
Xebia
CTL Logistics
HB Reavis
Cellnex Telecom
Ringier Axel Springer
Work highlights
- Advised Entain Holdings (CEE) Ltd., a strategic platform established by Entain plc, the global sports betting, gaming, and interactive entertainment group in partnership with EMMA Capital, a Czech investment management company, on the launch of a tender offer to acquire 100% of STS Holdings S.A.
- Advised Norsk Hydro and its subsidiary Hydro Aluminium on their attempt to acquire control over Alumetal.
- Advised EcoWipes, a major Polish manufacturer of wet wipes and other personal care products, on the sale of the company to an investor controlled by Cornerstone Investment Management and Kartesia.
DLA Piper Giziński Kycia sp.k.
DLA Piper Giziński Kycia sp.k. boasts ‘exceptional practical and transactional experience’ and advises local and global corporations and companies, financial institutions, issuers, investment funds, and brokerage houses on domestic and cross-border M&A transactions in the technology, media, heavy industry, healthcare, and life sciences sectors. Marta Frąckowiak chairs the team, which saw the elevation of Piotr Miller to the partnership in May 2023, and the promotion of Malwina Bonder and Izabela Gębal to counsel in July 2023. Jakub Domalik-Plakwicz possesses legal and regulatory expertise regarding M&A transactions, while counsel Wojciech Kalinowski leads a team specialising in venture capital mandates.
Practice head(s):
Marta Frąckowiak
Other key lawyers:
Jakub Domalik-Plakwicz; Jakub Marcinkowski; Wojciech Kalinowski; Rafał Kluziak; Piotr Miller; Izabela Gębal; Michał Gintowt; Malwina Bonder; Michał Sowiński
Testimonials
‘I had the pleasure to work with a few individuals executing an international sell-side mandate. Piotr Miller was very communicative and with high soft skills, was easily dealing with the other team and the negotiations went very smoothly. Michał Sowiński was also engaged in the project and was very analytical and diligent, remembering about all important aspects and safeguarding the necessary actions.’
‘Michał Gintowt allowed us to properly understand the key risks and challenges on our transaction and successfully helped us navigate through them. Apart from being a strong legal and business partner, he’s also a well-read individual with whom it is a pleasure to interact and discuss, not only about case-related topics.’
‘The firm is very responsive and thorough. We are a multinational corporation and had many things going on in our transaction which made it somewhat complex. They had many people on the team capable of handling any issues.’
‘A team of professionals with very good knowledge of the law and, most importantly, exceptional practical and transactional experience. Very good internal communication between team members, full availability, work always done on time.’
‘Jakub Domalik-Plakwicz has a strategic approach, extensive transaction experience, understands the strategic aspects of the transaction, pro-business approach, ability to actively participate in effective negotiations of key aspects of the transaction, availability and excellent communication.’
‘Wojciech Kalinowski is one of the best lawyers with whom I had the opportunity to cooperate throughout my professional career; excellent understanding of the client’s needs, proper and balanced approach to risks, efficient processing, full availability, and good communication.’
‘Cooperation with DLA Piper is always a guarantee of high quality and professionalism. This law firm is distinguished by a very individual approach to clients and great dedication of partners.’
‘I had the pleasure of working with two lawyers, Izabela Gębal and Marta Frąckowiak. I was impressed by Izabela’s great involvement during the process of arranging insurance for the client; her commitment went beyond the standards. In addition, I was also captivated by Marta’s dedication as a partner. She was involved in meetings with the client, showing a very high standard of legal advice and great expertise in the discussed area.’
Key clients
Allegro
Arhelan
Avallon MBO Fund II
Genesis Private Equity Fund III
Copernicus
Foreign Expansion Fund Closed-End Investment Fund of Non-Public Assets
General Electric Company
GS Engineering & Construction Corp.
Hubert Burda Media
Hyundai Engineering, Korea Overseas Infrastructure & Urban Development Corporation
Katoen Natie
Life Healthcare Group
MCI.PrivateVentures
Mid Europa Partners
Droma Sunshade-Experts
Polish Enterprise Fund VIII
PORR
Resource Partners
Top System
Żabka Polska
SoftwareONE
Dura 6C
SIBS International
Sygnity
PGS Software
Edison Energia
Generali
RWE
Halma
Wirtualna Polska
ONDE
Work highlights
- Advised the Wirtualna Polska Group on the conclusion of a conditional agreement with, among others, funds managed by PortfoLion Capital Partners to acquire the Szallas Group, which owns major travel platforms for booking accommodation in Hungary, the Czech Republic, Romania, Poland, and Croatia.
- Advising RWE on the acquisition of shares of a company which is a major developer of renewable energy projects in Poland, together with a whole portfolio of PV projects, consisting of approximately 450 different projects in Poland with a total electricity capacity of over 3GW.
- Advised Nethone on the process of acquiring Advent International as a new majority investor and joining the MANGOPAY.com Group.
Greenberg Traurig Nowakowska-Zimoch Wysokinski Sp. k
Greenberg Traurig Nowakowska-Zimoch Wysokiński Sp. k handles the entire plethora of corporate and M&A mandates for clients in Poland and across the CEE region, including the relevant regulatory aspects of transactions, joint ventures, buy-outs, and restructurings. Senior partner Lejb Fogelman and Rafał Baranowski jointly chair the practice, which is also home to US-qualified practitioners Stephen Horvath and Michał Bobrzyński, and UK-qualified expert Maciej Pietrzak. Filip Kijowski is another notable name and he is well versed in advising private equity and corporate clients. In team news, Klaudia Królak joined the team from Linklaters in October 2023 and Agnieszka Stopińska was promoted to counsel at the beginning of 2023. Of counsel Adam Opalski joined Domanski Zakrzewski Palinka in April 2023.
Practice head(s):
Lejb Fogelman; Rafał Baranowski
Other key lawyers:
Stephen Horvath; Łukasz Pawlak; Michał Bobrzyński; Filip Kijowski; Agnieszka Stopińska; Tomasz Denko; Klaudia Królak; Maciej Pietrzak
Testimonials
‘Excellent understanding of the dynamics in the given industry coupled with deep insight into the M&A environment relevant for the transaction, but also in the wider context. Excellent cooperation amongst the team members across specialisations to deliver the service that takes into account all aspects of the project.’
‘Great specialists with problem-solving approach; very good value and capabilities to work under time pressure.’
‘We work closely with Rafał Baranowski, Filip Kijowski and Tomasz Denko; they are high-quality specialists, always prepared and able to solve even the most challenging issue we are facing.’
‘High engagement, full attention and availability of senior level lawyers, and a deep pool of experience across the industries and situations makes Greenberg Traurig a top firm in this area. The firm’s team is highly diverse and combines deep global as well as local knowledge. The corporate M&A team’s spirit is problem solving and high pragmatism in getting to the best outcome for the client.’
‘Michał Bobrzyński is an excellent practitioner in the area of corporate law and M&A. He is always highly engaged, focused on the details while always having the big picture and end game in mind. Highly skilled negotiator in M&A situations.’
‘I am very satisfied with the legal services provided by Greenberg Traurig. They have an excellent team of lawyers who are knowledgeable, experienced, and dedicated. They handled my case with professionalism and care and always kept me informed of the progress and the options.’
‘They were responsive to my questions and concerns and gave me honest and realistic advice. They fought hard for my rights and interests and achieved a favourable outcome for me. I would highly recommend them to anyone who needs legal representation.’
‘Expertise in the relevant legal areas, such as corporate law, intellectual property, contracts, tax, and securities. Experience in working with VC investors, startups and entrepreneurs, understanding their needs, challenges, and goals. Ability to negotiate effectively and creatively, finding win-win solutions for all parties, even in tricky situations.’
Key clients
Agora S.A.
Allianz SE
CVC Capital Partners
Stock Spirits group
Symfonia Sp. z o.o.
Animex
Inpost
KI Chemistry
PIB Group
OTB Ventures
Value4Capital
Goldman Sachs Asset Management
Centerbridge
PAK-Polska Czysta Energia
ZE PAK
Polsat Plus Group
Work highlights
- Advised Agora S.A. on the acquisition of a controlling stake in Eurozet sp. z o.o. from SFS Ventures s.r.o.
- Advised Allianz on the merger of Allianz Group and Aviva Group companies in Poland as a result of the acquisition of Aviva’s operations in Poland and Lithuania by Allianz for over €2.5bn.
- Advised CVC Capital Partners on the sale of 100% of the shares in PKP Energetyka S.A. to PGE Polska Grupa Energetyczna S.A.
Rymarz Zdort Maruta
Rymarz Zdort Maruta was formed following a merger at the beginning of 2023 between Rmyarz Zdort and Maruta Wachta. The strengthened firm excels in public M&A work, and has significant experience supporting both domestic and international clients with complex cross-border M&A transactions, especially in the energy sector. It has notable strengths in advising financial institutions, such as banks, brokerage houses, investment funds, and insurance companies, and the department is also increasingly active in the gaming space. Managing partners Paweł Rymarz and Paweł Zdort spearhead the practice, and Lukasz Gasiński heads up a sub-team dedicated to financial regulatory work. Jakub Zagrajek has a notable M&A practice with a focus on public companies. Jacek Zawadzki also takes an active role in the firm’s most significant mandates.
Practice head(s):
Paweł Rymarz; Paweł Zdort
Other key lawyers:
Lukasz Gasiński; Jakub Zagrajek; Jacek Zawadzki; Malgorzata Derus; Paweł Mazur; Aleksander Jakubisiak
Testimonials
‘The team led by Jakub Zagrajek is super helpful, knowledgeable and experienced when it comes to M&A and capital markets transactions, especially for projects involving listed companies. They work fast, understand the details, know market standards well, and work closely with clients to reflect theirneeds.’
‘Jakub Zagrajek is the only M&A senior lawyer that I know that connects profound legal expertise with business skills and financial knowledge, which gives a lot of comfort when dealing with complex transactional structures, management incentive schemes, JV deals, GP/LP structures. Super friendly and helpful, trustworthy and very experienced.’
‘Jacek Zawadzki and Paweł Zdort provide comprehensive services, an ability to bring solutions, experience, and an ability to solve problem before they are brought to the table.’
‘Quality comparable to best international law firms. Very experienced and knowledgeable team.’
‘Paweł Zdort is one of most experienced PE/M&A lawyers in Poland, and Jacek Zawadzki is very pro-active and involved, independent, and able to handle complex assignments.’
‘A team with outstanding experience, commitment, knowledge, culture, and pleasure of cooperation.’
‘Jakub Zagrajek has a hands-on approach, substantive knowledge in the field of finance, and direct contact. Paweł Mazur is committed, knowledgeable, and thinks logically.’
‘Unique and well-balanced knowledge and experience, not only in law, but also in the field of finance and technology.’
Key clients
Grupa Lotos
PGE Polska Grupa Energetyczna S.A.
Techland S.A.
the Three Seas Initiative Investment Fund S.A. SICAV-RAIF
Unilink Group
Enterprise Investors
Polskie Gornictwo Naftowe i Gazownictwo S.A.
VH Invest AG
Commercial Banks Protection System S.A.
Kajima Partnerships Limited
Griffin Capital Partners
Building Material Distributors, Inc.
Robyg S.A.
Reikon Games
Play Group
Exact Systems
Market Pay Group, AnaCap
British Primary School of Wilanow
British Nursery of Wilanow
Vectra S.A.
Active Ownership Capital
Work highlights
- Supported Grupa LOTOS with the completion of the next phase of the implementation of remedies connected with the acquisition of control by PKN ORLEN over LOTOS Group S.A., which involved transactions with Aramco Overseas Company B.V. and Hungary’s MOL Hungarian Oil and Gas Public Limited Company.
- Advised PGE Polska Grupa Energetyczna S.A. on its acquisition from US-based fund CVC Capital Partners of 100% of the shares in PKP Energetyka S.A.
- Advised Techland S.A., a major Polish video game developer, on the sale of approximately 67% of the shares in the company to Tencent Holdings Limited (Cayman Islands).
White & Case M. Studniarek i Wspólnicy - Kancelaria Prawna sp.k.
White & Case M. Studniarek i Wspólnicy - Kancelaria Prawna sp.k.‘s offering encompasses support with high-profile Polish and cross-border M&A transactions, as well as inbound and outbound investments. Other areas of expertise for the group include demergers, leveraged buyouts, joint ventures, and equity investments. Sectors of interest for the team include oil and gas, infrastructure, TMT, real estate, and logistics, amongst others. Marcin Studniarek chairs the group with decades of experience advising public and private companies, investors, and financial institutions. Marek Sawicki is active in both inbound and outbound transactions, and of counsel Aneta Maria Hajska is also notable.
Practice head(s):
Marcin Studniarek
Other key lawyers:
Maciej Zalewski; Aneta Maria Hajska; Marek Sawicki; Małgorzata Paśnik; Rafał Kamiński; Klaudia Malczewska
Key clients
STS Holding
Towarzystwo Finansowe Silesia
Citigroup Global Markets Europe
W.A.G payment solutions
Play Group
MidEuropa
Grupa Pracuj
EV Metals Group
Impel
ORLEN Synthos Green Energy
Hanwha Aerospace
Korea Aerospace Industries
ORLEN VC
Catella
Greenman
GLP
Work highlights
- Advised STS Holding and its majority shareholders on the sale of all their shares in the company to Entain Holdings CEE.
- Advised W.A.G payment solutions, a wholly owned subsidiary of Eurowag, on the €306m acquisition of Grupa Inelo from Innova Capital, European Telematics Holding and certain other vendors.
- Advised Citigroup Global Markets Europe, as financial advisor to ORLEN, on ORLEN’s two mergers, first with Grupa Lotos, and second with PGNiG.
A&O Shearman
A&O Shearman has notable expertise in the energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, financial, and TMT sectors, and frequently handles high-value, cross-border M&A transactions. The group underwent expansion in May 2023 with the addition of ‘business-oriented lawyer’ Magdalena Nasiłowska and Piotr Szczeciński from Baker McKenzie Krzyzowski i Wspólnicy Sp.k.; the former bolsters the firm’s corporate offering with significant experience in assisting public and private companies with M&A mandates, joint ventures, and private equity transactions, while the latter has a particular focus on the technology and manufacturing sectors. Nasiłowska now co-leads the practice alongside Jarosław Iwanick and Marta Sendrowicz.
Practice head(s):
Jaroslaw Iwanicki; Marta Sendrowicz; Magdalena Nasiłowska
Other key lawyers:
Maciej Skoczyński; Piotr Szczeciński; Maciej Skoczyński; Maciej Szykut
Testimonials
‘The law firm provides comprehensive advice with a business-oriented approach, aiming to solve the matter in a practical manner.’
‘Magdalena Nasiłowska is a business-oriented lawyer, providing practical solutions.’
‘Piotr Szczeciński is an efficient, business-oriented lawyer.’
Key clients
Saudi Aramco
Cordiant Digital Infrastructure Limited
Innova Capital
Polski Fundusz Rozwoju
DoorDash, Inc.
Brookfield Business Partners
Eden Springs
OX2 AB
OLX Global B.V.
NetEase
QSRP
Aegon
Krafton Inc.
Work highlights
- Advised Aramco on its investment in Poland’s refining, wholesale, and jet fuel marketing segments through a number of acquisitions from Polish oil refiner and fuel retailer PKN Orlen, following its merger with Grupa Lotos.
- Advised Cordiant Digital Infrastructure Limited, a specialist investment company focused on investing in digital infrastructure assets in the United Kingdom, Europe and North America, on its acquisition of Emitel from Astatine Investment Partners.
- Advised OX2 AB on the sale of a wind farm and solar farm in Poland by its affiliate to Ingka Investments, the investment arm of Ingka Group.
Baker McKenzie Krzyzowski i Wspólnicy Sp.k.
At Baker McKenzie Krzyzowski i Wspólnicy Sp.k., the M&A team is highly adept at handling domestic and cross-border transactions, as well as the entire lifecycle of investments, leveraging the benefit of the firm’s wider global network of offices. The practice is jointly led by Weronika Achramowicz, who is lauded as an ‘outstanding attorney‘ and also leads the commercial group; Tomasz Krzyżowski, who specialises in the oil and gas, retail, energy, healthcare, and technology sectors; and Filip Uziębło, who possesses expertise in private equity mandates and restructurings. Łukasz Targoszyński is another notable name within the team, and he co-leads the firm’s food industry initiative. Magdalena Nasiłowska and counsel Piotr Szczeciński joined A&O Shearman in June 2023.
Practice head(s):
Tomasz Krzyżowski; Weronika Achramowicz; Filip Uziębło
Other key lawyers:
Łukasz Targoszyński; Radzym Wójcik; Magdalena Medyńska; Marcin Płonka
Testimonials
‘Baker McKenzie lawyers are not only problem solvers but they are rather trusted advisors. This means that they are proactive, sit at the table when strategic decisions are being made to understand client needs and goals, and they are able to provide clients with clear advice and recommendations.’
‘Tomasz Krzyżowski and his team always keep their promises and if possible, under promise and over deliver.’
‘The BM corporate team led by Weronika Achramowicz is a great combination of business-oriented lawyers and very knowledgeable attorneys. They can assist in all kinds of commercial and corporate matters.’
Key clients
Actona Group A/S
AGORA S.A.
Specialized
Thales SA
Snowflake Inc.
Grupa Wirtualna Polska
Google LLC
Rebel Wolves
ORLEN S.A.
International Schools Partnership Limited
ARP S.A. and Aranda sp. z o.o.
Polindus-Laktopol
SPIE
Schneider Electric
Marketing Investment Group
Kredyt Inkaso
Work highlights
- Assisting S&P Global with a cross-border transaction consisting of the sale of its Engineering Solutions Business in various jurisdictions, including Poland, Germany, France, UK, Switzerland, Singapore, Mexico, Malaysia, Japan, India, China, Brazil, Australia, and Canada.
- Advised Wirtualna Polska Holding S.A. and its subsidiary, Stacja Służew Sp. z o.o., on the direct and indirect purchase of a block of shares and subscription warrants in Audioteka S.A.
- Acted as lead legal advisor to ORLEN S.A. in connection with the $256m acquisition by the ORLEN Group entities of a network of 185 fuel stations in Hungary and Slovakia from MOL Group.
CMS
The corporate and M&A department at CMS is notably strong in public M&A transactions, and clients often turn to the group for assistance with mandates in the energy, chemical, consumer products, TMC, manufacturing, logistics, and banking spaces. Of particular note is its advice to investment and capital venture funds on their transactions. Rafał Zwierz – who is qualified in Poland, the US, and the UK – leads the team. Other key names within the practice include Sławomir Czerwiński and counsel Olga Czyżycka-Szczygieł; the former has experience in assisting private equity houses and corporates with investments, exits, joint ventures, and mergers, and the latter has expertise in corporate issues, including restructurings and reorganisations. March 2024 saw two new arrivals join the team from Deloitte Legal, Ostrowski, Gizicki i Wspólnicy sp.k., namely Ryszard Manteuffel and counsel Robert Semczuk.
Practice head(s):
Rafał Zwierz
Other key lawyers:
Sławomir Czerwiński; Błażej Zagórski; Mateusz Stępień; Olga Czyżycka-Szczygieł; Jarosław Gajda; Marta Osowska-Buba; Antoni Wandzilak; Joanna Białoskórska; Grzegorz Pączek; Robert Semczuk; Ryszard Manteuffel
Testimonials
‘Competence, reactivity, reliability, and efficiency.’
‘The team as CMS is great at collaborating, very prompt with their responses and clear in their understanding.’
‘I worked with Mateusz Stępień and his team. He has a very clear thought process, is a great lawyer and very prompt with his responses.’
‘The M&A team is calm and reliable at all times, fast and furious when needed, always on top of the case and thinking two steps ahead.’
‘Błażej Zagórski and Grzegorz Pączek are my favourite M&A team in Poland. When I hand the work to them, I do not have to check every step; they follow with all the details, keep me well informed, always working on the highest level and with the highest standards.’
‘CMS thoughtfully has selected engaged and knowledgeable attorneys who care for the client.’
Key clients
MOL Hungarian Oil and Gas Plc
Medicover Sp. z o.o.
Green Genius
Sonnedix UK Services Ltd
Partner in Pet Food
Constantia Flexibles
PartyDeco sp. z o.o.
Syntaxis Capital
Mutares
Synergie
MidEuropa
CirCap
GrECo International Holding AG
TotalEnergies Renewables
B&P Engineering sp. z o.o.
Vertex Investment
Prime Label Group
Kansai Helios Coatings
Compagnie d’Affrètement et de Transport
Integer.pl S.A.
Abris Capital Partners
R-GOL Marcin Radziwon
OZE Holding 2
Work highlights
- Advised MOL Hungarian Oil and Gas Public Limited Company on the $610m acquisition of 100% of the shares in LOTOS Paliwa Sp. z o.o., a domestic company which owns 417 petrol stations across Poland.
- Advised R-GOL, a major distributor of specialised equipment for football enthusiasts, professionals and football clubs in Central and Eastern Europe, and its owners, on the sale of the majority stake to Innova Capital.
- Advised MangoPay, a European payments solution provider for marketplaces and platforms backed by PE fund Advent International, on the Polish law related aspects of the acquisition of a majority stake in the AI fraud detection and prevention company Nethone sp. z o.o.
Dentons
Dentons frequently advises multinationals, financial institutions, and private equity houses on the entire spectrum of M&A transactions. The group is also well known for its work in the regulatory space, and sectors of strength include energy, infrastructure and manufacturing, media and technology, real estate, and food. With offices across the CEE region, the team is well placed to utilise the wider firm’s network to handle cross-border work, including inbound investments into Poland. Practice head Piotr Dulewicz also co-leads the firm’s European private equity group with over two decades of transactional expertise. Paweł Grabowski is another key member of the team, and is skilled in share and asset acquisitions.
Practice head(s):
Piotr Dulewicz
Other key lawyers:
Paweł Grabowski; Marceli Kasperkiewicz; Michał Wasiak; Marcin Paliwoda; Bartosz Juszczak
Testimonials
‘Great collaboration, business oriented, experienced lawyers and nice people.’
‘Michał Wasiak is more of a business partner than a simple legal advisor, even if a very good lawyer. Very involved, understands clients’ needs, and creative.’
‘One of the best M&A and corporate teams in town.’
Key clients
Veolia
EPAM Systems
STEAG
Nexity
KKR
Genuine Parts Company
GEODIS
Echo Investment
Syntaxis Capital
Bridgepoint
Bostik
BIZON Group
Valeo
C.H. Robinson
Hexagon
Celanese Corporation
eSky Group
Work highlights
- Advised STEAG on the sale of SFW ENERGIA, a Polish energy provider, to REMONDIS, a major global waste management company.
- Advised Nexity, a major French real estate group, on the sale of its Polish subsidiaries to Develia.
- Advised Bridgepoint on the sale of its portfolio company Dr Gerard to Adam Foods.
Domanski Zakrzewski Palinka
Domanski Zakrzewski Palinka is very familiar with the Polish M&A market, and is additionally skilled in handling cross-border transactions. Its offering encompasses a broad range of work, including leveraged buyouts, management take-overs, joint ventures, and reorganisations and restructuring projects. Managing partner Krzysztof Zakrzewski spearheads the department with the support of ‘go-to’ lawyer Bartosz Marcinkowski and Marek Świątkowski, who acts for both buyers and sellers. Another notable name is Piotr Andrzejczak, who is an M&A specialist in the private market.
Practice head(s):
Krzysztof Zakrzewski
Other key lawyers:
Marek Świątkowski; Piotr Andrzejczak; Robert Niczyporuk; Damian Szczygielski; Bartosz Marcinkowski; Sylwia Kuca; Michał Klimowicz
Testimonials
‘The team has always performed in the way we desired. They are always client oriented.’
‘Damian Szczygielski and Michał Klimowicz provided us with an outstanding service, with highly professional and experienced advice to proceed our M&A project smoothly. Needless to say, they were always reactive throughout the project.’
‘The team is very responsive and efficient. They understand the issues and treat them with pragmatism and efficiency.’
‘They explain very simply the way it works in Poland and are reliable. Very dedicated on its matters. Good understanding of the situation and reliable legal advice.’
‘Business oriented.’
‘One of Poland’s largest and institutionalised law firms with a great organisation. Bartosz Marcinkowski is my go-to person in Poland.’
‘The support is on a high level of knowledge and professionalism and it is very much reliable. What is very specific with DZP against the others is that they are trying to help you to make the right decision.’
‘Very good individual lawyers, with high personal class. They are proactively looking forward to your targets and helping with legal advice to achieve them.’
Key clients
Budmat
International Paper
Procter & Gamble
Canal +
Bauer Media
Getin Holding S.A.
Renomia
Renta
Kliniki Neuroradiochirurgii
SAT
GP Capital
Global Pharma
OU Blite
PamapolandPropinquus
Zing
InfraVia Growth
Fox Recykling
Cuprum Zdrowie
InfiniteData
Podobneo
Efecte Plc
ID Logistics
PGE Polska Grupa Energetyczna
CBC Poland
Astara
BBB
PFR TFI
Oasis Diagnositics
Teltec AG
Amphenol
Work highlights
- Advised Fox Recykling, a collector and seller of secondary waste, on the sale of 76% of its shares to the Spanish group, Saica, a major European producer of recycled paper.
- Advised PGE Polska Grupa Energetyczna S.A. on the sale of TFI Energia to public insurance company Powszechny Zakład Ubezpieczeń.
- Advised ATP, a major Danish pension fund, on the Polish aspects of its investment in the renewable energy business Better Energy.
Gide Loyrette Nouel
The corporate and M&A department at Gide Loyrette Nouel is overseen by Dariusz Tokarczuk and offers clients a multi-disciplinary approach, benefiting from the ability to call upon other practitioners from the firm’s banking and finance, private equity, and venture capital teams, which are led by Paweł Grześkowiak. Key areas of interest for the practice include the creation and liquidation of companies, reorganisations, registration proceedings, and day-to-day advisory work. Marta Karmińska and Dawid Van Kędzierski were promoted to of counsel and counsel, respectively, in April 2023.
Practice head(s):
Dariusz Tokarczuk; Paweł Grześkowiak
Other key lawyers:
Edyta Zalewska; Wojciech Czyżewski; Marta Karmińska; Dawid Van Kędziersk
Testimonials
‘GIDE’s M&A team is a set of dedicated professionals who supported our organisation throughout a complex divestment process. The quality of services rendered exceeded our expectations.’
‘Two things that make GIDE’s team unique are responsiveness and the ability to simplify the most twisted and complicated issues.’
‘From the very beginning of the process we were supported by Wojciech Czyżewski. He has all that can be expected from the top-quality legal professional. Not only did he provide us with state-of-the-art legal services, but he coordinated the work of his colleagues and managed to keep things as simple and apprehensible as possible.’
Key clients
PKO VC FIZAN
Resource Partners
Tar Heel Capital
KGHM TFI S. A.
Insight Investment
KGHM Polska Miedź S.A.
MAK Group
Goodspeed sp. z o.o.
V4C
Work highlights
- Advised PKO VC on the sale of its shares in Applica.AI to Snowflake, a cloud data platform with worldwide activities.
- Supported Goodspeed with the process of securing an investor, Polish Enterprise Fund VIII, a private equity fund managed by Enterprise Investors.
- Advised V4C and Genesis on their concerted acquisition of the XBS Group, a supply chain management and logistics enterprise.
Linklaters
Linklaters boasts ‘outstanding expertise’ in M&A, exits, and restructurings, especially those involving an international or cross-border element. Assisting international investors with their inbound Polish investments is also an area of activity for the group. English-qualified M&A lawyer Daniel Cousens sits at the helm of the practice, and is noted for his focus on transactions across the CEE region. Cousens is ably supported by Marcin Schulz, who is strong in corporate regulatory mandates, and Cezary Wiśniewski, who has expertise in assisting multinational companies with their Polish investments.
Practice head(s):
Daniel Cousens; Marcin Schulz
Other key lawyers:
Michał Szperzyński; Cezary Wiśniewski; Christopher Quinn; Szymon Renkiewicz; Krzysztof Górny; Magdalena Szewczyk; Piotr Zbyszyński
Testimonials
‘The people have outstanding expertise, very good attention to detail, pragmatic approach, negotiation and strategic skills. Good availability of the team.’
‘Marcin Schulz has a strategic approach, and is reliable and trustworthy with excellent communication, capturing the big picture and thinking from the perspective of business needs.’
‘Magdalena Szewczyk has excellent knowledge in M&A, is available and caring of clients’ needs, and proactive.’
‘High involvement of the whole Linklaters Polish corporate team. Capability to front all legal aspects of the project and good coordination with other Linklaters teams.’
‘The team is very service-minded, always prepared to assist, good knowledge, competent and answers all questions.’
‘Magdalena Szewczyk is very easy to cooperate with, quick on feedback, competent and service minded.’
‘Service minded and helpful, always offer extra help where they can and act fast. Good communication both in regards of English language and swift responses. We are really dependent on our legal help from Linklaters, and the team we work with lives up to our expectations.’
‘Compared to other Polish companies we work with, Linklaters is by far one of the best.’
Key clients
ArcelorMittal
Astatine Investment Partners
Bain Capital Credit
CRH Materials Poland
Cornerstone Investment Managers
Daikin
Griffin Capital Partners
Iberdrola
IFM
InfraVia Capital Partners
ING Bank Śląski S.A.
Mayr-Melnhof Karton AG
Meridiam
Mirova
Nrep
Oaktree Capital Management
Plexus
Polski Fundusz Rozwoju S.A.
Trzuskawica
Work highlights
- Avised InfraVia Capital Partners on the acquisition of 50% of iliad Group’s interest in Polski Światłowód Otwarty sp. z o.o.
- Advised Cornerstone Investment Management, a major CEE private equity investment management firm, on its acquisition, in cooperation with Kartesia, a European specialist financing provider, of Ecowipes, a major European manufacturer of biodegradable wet wipes.
- Advised ArcelorMittal, a multinational steel manufacturing corporation, on the acquisition of Złomex, a Polish scrap metal recycling business.
Schoenherr Halwa sp.k.
Schoenherr Halwa sp.k. expertly handles domestic and international transactions, and often provides advice to executive and supervisory board members and shareholders. Notable sectors for the group include IT and technology. Paweł Halwa chairs the group with several decades of experience in corporate finance, M&A transactions, and strategic business transactions. Krzysztof Pawlak is another core member of the department and he frequently supports clients with commercial contracts, restructurings, and corporate law mandates. Senior associate Daria Rutecka is particularly skilled in technology-related M&A mandates. Krzysztof Wawrzyniak and Krzysztof Leśniak are also recommended. As part of a concerted growth strategy, the team onboarded a number of dedicated experts in 2024, most notably Paweł Chyb, Katarzyna Solarz-Włodarska and Marcin Czaprowski.
Practice head(s):
Paweł Halwa
Other key lawyers:
Krzysztof Pawlak; Daria Rutecka; Krzysztof Leśniak; Krzysztof Wawrzyniak; Paweł Chyb; Katarzyna Solarz-Włodarska; Marcin Czaprowski
Testimonials
‘Proactive, calm, and professional, Schoenherr provided excellent support and professional guidance during a challenging period and helped us to run the transaction process efficiently and effectively. All challenges were dealt with in a logical way. Work was always done quickly and to a high standard. We got the best possible outcome and I am very grateful.’
‘Paweł Halwa provides sound and commercial advice, putting his clients’ interests first. It was a long process, but Paweł and his team handled it with professionalism, from our initial meeting right through until the deal was closed.’
‘Senior partners’ involvement brings the highest quality to the negotiation table, avoiding any continuity problems, which sometimes happens with changing lead people. Negotiations (even hard ones) have been performed in an amicable atmosphere and parties’ arguments have been handled with class and sophistication.’
‘Paweł Halwa is a very genuine person with a personal approach to every project. We were impressed with the way in which each and every request of ours has been considered and replied to in a constructive manner.’
‘A full comprehensive range of services that include not only legal advice but also an understanding of the business behind it.’
‘The people we work with have a unique approach to solving the problem comprehensively and not just answering the question. They ask questions and dig deeper.’
‘Paweł Halwa is a master negotiator and very personable; the person to have by your side in a transaction.’
‘The firm is able to provide support across a breadth of areas including corporate, banking, employment, regulatory, etc. Important and helpful in the context of an acquisition.’
Key clients
EAG SE
Vaalon Capital
Avallon MBO Fund III
voestAlpine
WNS Global Holdings Ltd.
Warsaw Property Partners
Yanolja Cloud Pte. Ltd.
Work highlights
- Advised WNS Holdings, a global business process management company, on its complete acquisition of a software company.
- Advised voestalpine on the acquisition process of Plastwil sp. z o.o.
- Advised Yanolja, an online travel business headquartered in South Korea, on a significant acquisition in the travel and technology sector.
Soltysinski Kawecki & Szlezak
Soltysinski Kawecki & Szlezak is ‘highly qualified and experienced in M&A transactions and corporate issues’ across a vast range of sectors, including FMCG, automotive, logistics, financial services, renewable energy, chemicals, IT, and media. Managing partner Robert Gawałkiewicz leads the team, which regularly works alongside international law firms. Gawałkiewicz is active in cross-border restructurings and commercial litigation, and he is supported by head of the firm’s automotive group Łukasz Berak, who advises clients on cross-border mergers and complex corporate issues.
Practice head(s):
Robert Gawałkiewicz
Other key lawyers:
Krzysztof Pawlisz; Tomasz Kański; Łukasz Berak; Sławomir Uss; Marcin Olechowski; Witold Kurek; Karol Skibniewski; Michał Dawidowicz
Testimonials
‘SK&S lawyers are highly qualified and experienced in M&A transactions and corporate issues. They are responsive, business-oriented and proactive. SK&S is allowed to give advice under Polish law, but they have a very extensive business network with other legal offices all over the world. Consequently, in case a transaction requires foreign input, they have full capacity to handle that.’
‘I work essentially with Sławomir Uss. I do appreciate his knowledge and experience, business-oriented and proactive approach, engagement and responsiveness.’
‘Łukasz Berak is a very responsive, commercially savvy lawyer with an outstanding eye for detail.’
‘Robert Gawałkiewicz and Michał Dawidowicz stand out, apart from a very high level of legal knowledge, with excellent communication skills.’
‘Łukasz Berak is a world-class negotiator; smart, responsive, to the point. I would always recommend him to my clients.’
‘Karol Skibniewski has been excellent as senior counsel and acts like a partner to us, providing fast yet concise responses to any questions raised.’
‘SK&S is a premium, full-service law firm in Poland that has both clients of its own in the Polish market or in the international market, and also cooperates with international law firms in transactions with a touchpoint in various markets. I can be sure that everybody in the team is excellent if my partner Karol Skibniewski puts together the team.’
‘Karol Skibniewski is my trusted lawyer for any M&A transactions with a Polish angle. His dedication and competence is second-to-none for a local counsel. I trust him and any cooperation has been smooth and efficient.’
Key clients
P4 Sp. z o.o.
iliad Group
NN Group N.V.
Heineken International B.V.
Darling Ingredients Inc.
AB Ignitis Grupe
Ignitis Renewables UAB
Brand New Galaxy
Blackstone
Sunly AS
Ørsted
Club Car
Platinum Equity
Stellantis NV
Mohawk
Unilin Group
CDS Groupe SAS
Infinite Electronics International, Inc.
Rivian Automotive Inc
Indutrade AB
ArabyAds
Maritech UK
DKV Mobility
Viessmann Group GmbH & Co. KG
Komatsu, Ltd.
H&K Manufacturing Unlimited Company
MultimodalHD Eesti OŰ
Arlington Capital Partners
Noho Investment
Work highlights
- Advised Darling Ingredients Inc., a company which turns food waste into sustainable products and produces renewable energy, listed on the New York Stock Exchange, on the acquisition of 100% of the shares in Miropasz Sp. z o.o., a Polish rendering company, for approximately €110m.
- Advised Heineken International B.V. on its approxiamtely PLN1.66bn acquisition of the remaining 35% shareholding in Grupa Żywiec S.A., a major Polish brewery.
- Advised Viessmann Group GmbH & Co. KG, a German-based player in heating, refrigeration, and cooling technology, on combining its Climate Solutions business area with Carrier Global Corporation.
WKB Lawyers
WKB Lawyers‘ multi-disciplinary approach to M&A transactions allows clients to benefit from the firm’s wider teams, including its banking and finance, competition, labour, and energy departments, among others. Jakub Jedrzejak leads the broader group, while Anna Wojciechowska spearheads the corporate law and corporate governance practice. Co-founding partner Andrzej Wierciński is another key name, in addition to senior partner Agnieszka Wiercińska-Krużewska, who has a particular focus on start-ups, and the TMT and IP industries. Anna Wyrzykowska heads up the real estate offering and assists with corporate mandates in that field, while Marta Midloch splits her time between M&A transactions, infrastructure projects, and capital markets work.
Practice head(s):
Jakub Jędrzejak; Anna Wojciechowska
Other key lawyers:
Andrzej Wierciński; Ben Davey; Grzegorz Godlewski; Agnieszka Wiercińska-Krużewska; Anna Wyrzykowska; Marta Midloch
Testimonials
‘Experienced business-oriented lawyers and responsive to client’s needs.’
‘WKB has an excellent team. They have outstanding experience in the real estate and M&A sector. Their partners’ and associates’ availability and competence is excellent. They are quick, and provide valuable, pragmatic advice.’
‘Jakub Jędrzejak was excellent; always available and provided pragmatic advice and easy to use responses to our questions.’
Key clients
Neo Energy Group
Avallon
MB Aerospace
Towarzystwo Ubezpieczeń Europa S.A,
Towarzystwo Ubezpieczeń na Życie Europa S.A.
KGAL ESPF 5 Holding SARL
Polskie ePłatności
CVI Dom Maklerski
ČEZ a.s.
Lisner Holding
GreenVolt Energy
Afcon Renewable Energy
PZU Group
Shareholders of Health Labs Care SA
Schneider Electric
Ministry of State Assets
Work highlights
- Advising Lisner Holding, a member of the German Müller group, on its acquisition of Graal S.A., a major Polish fish processing and canning company, and a number of its subsidiaries.
- Advising ENEA S.A. on the sale ENEA Wytwarzanie sp. z o.o., ENEA Elektrownia Połaniec S.A., and ENEA Trading from ENEA S.A. to the Polish State to create the National Energy Security Agency, a special national agency created by the government to ensure Poland’s safety in relation to energy.
- Advising Accel-KKR on the acquisition of the majority of shares in Symfonia sp. z o.o. and its subsidiary.
Wolf Theiss
Wolf Theiss has undergone significant expansion, with the arrival of a 27-strong team from Wardynski & Partners in the summer of 2023; this includes the new trio of practice heads Izabela Zielińska-Barłożek in Ponzań, and Anna Dąbrowska and Krzysztof Libiszewski in Warsaw. The practice provides advice to domestic and international clients on a wide range of mandates, with its offering spanning public and private M&A transactions, joint ventures, corporate governance and corporate restructurings, and privatisations. The practice’s expertise extends across a variety of sectors, including the automotive industry, FMCG, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and IT, amongst others.
Practice head(s):
Izabela Zielińska-Barłożek; Anna Dąbrowska; Krzysztof Libiszewski
Other key lawyers:
Peter Daszkowski; Dariusz Harbaty; Maciej Olszewski; Jakub Pietrasik; Maciej Szewczyk; Marcin Pietkiewicz
Testimonials
‘I have worked with them on several cross-border transactions and their team was always among the best. Quick, responsive, knowledgeable, and efficient.’
‘I worked with Izabela Zielińska-Barłożek, Anna Dąbrowska and Maciej Szewczyk – all outstanding lawyers who travel the world to reinforce their referral practice and at the same time manage numerous deals. They know what clients expect from them and act accordingly every single time!’
‘This practice stands out due to its exceptional team’s strengths and capabilities, which are highly valued by potential clients. Have a strong focus on innovation in areas such as collaboration and diversity, setting them apart from other firms in the field.’
‘The individuals I collaborate with stand out for their remarkable professionalism, setting them apart from the competition. I highly value their dedication, commitment to excellence, and deep expertise in their respective fields.’
‘The Wolf Theiss M&A team has been very helpful in addressing novel and complicated issues involving Polish law that arose in the course of M&A and financing transactions.’
‘Dariusz Harbaty is exceptional. Responsive, sophisticated, commercial, and practical.’
‘Wolf Theiss provides us with professional legal services on the matters of M&A and other legal issues. The team of Wolf Theiss is always sincere and tries to support our company with deep and experienced legal practices. We are happy with the firm’s attitude and legal services.’
‘Izabela Zielińska-Barłożek, Maciej Szewczyk and Marcin Pietkiewicz are reliable and professional lawyers in the field of M&A. We feel very comfortable to work with them thanks to their sincerity and professional knowledge. We wish to recommend other corporations to receive legal services from the said lawyers.’
Key clients
BHM Group
ALSO
The Halifax Group
DC Bank
Erwin Hymer Group
The Baupost Group
Goldfinch Partners
Sigma Plastics Group
Fidia Farmaceutici
Vienna Insurance Group
Shareholders of Rusak Business Services
GK PGE SA
American Airlines Inc.
Bird & Bird Szepietowski i wspólnicy sp. k.
Bird & Bird Szepietowski i wspólnicy sp. k. is highly adept at supporting clients across the TMT, energy, healthcare, renewable energy, transport, business services, and IT industries with their acquisitions, sales, joint ventures, and corporate restructurings on both a domestic and international level. Rafał Dziedzic co-heads the team with Ludomir Biedecki; the former specialises in M&A transactions and corporate law work, and the latter’s practice encompasses financings and business restructurings.
Practice head(s):
Rafał Dziedzic; Ludomir Biedecki
Other key lawyers:
Artur Stosio; Mariya Borsuk; Wojciech Nowosad
Testimonials
‘A professional, committed and always available team, well informed about the latest legal issues and upcoming changes in legislation, open and creative when solving legal problems, and very thorough when explaining legal complexities.’
‘Rafał Dziedzic and Artur Stosio have the highest level of professionalism, vast experience in the field of issues in which they offer support, out-of-the-box solutions always focused on the good of the client, and full availability and readiness to help at any time.’
‘The commercial, corporate and M&A practice of Bird & Bird Poland stands out by its quality of work (which is high), speed of work (which is good), and intelligence in dialogue with us as a client.’
‘A good and solid team that we like to work with.’
‘Ludomir Biedecki is involved when he needs to be, but letting his associates lead when they can. Open to feedback and agile in pivoting when needed.’
‘Wojciech Nowosad is competent, independent, hard working.’
‘Doing deals in Poland can be burdensome. Bird & Bird has been a solid advisor, very pragmatic under the circumstances, with competences in all relevant fields.’
‘Rafał Dziedzic provided great advice. He is very composed, analytical and articulate. He has a very good knowledge of market standards.’
Key clients
ORLEN S.A.
ENERGA S.A.
DANONE
Nutricia Polska
Guesty Inc.
Artivion Inc.
Canadian Solar Netherlands Cooperatief
OBTON A/S
Dayco, LLC.
Vendeavour a.s.
Aloxe Holding B.V.
Cedrob S.A.
Customs Support Group B.V.
Work highlights
- Advised Nutricia Polska sp. z o.o., a part of Danone group, on the purchase of an enteral nutrition business through the acquisition of shares in Promedica sp. z o.o.
- Advised Energa S.A. on the acquisition by Energa Wytwarzanie S.A. of a wind farm and four PV installations from Greenvolt Power.
- Advised CUSTOMS SUPPORT GROUP B.V. on its direct investment on the Polish market and expansion in the UK, which involved assisting with the acquisition of all shares in Rusak Business Services sp. z o.o. and RUSAK UK.
EY Law
Managing partner Zuzanna Zakrzewska co-leads the corporate and M&A, employment, and banking and finance departments at EY Law, and provides transactional support to both domestic and foreign companies, especially those from the financial sector. Licensed restructuring advisor Magdalena Kasiarz also jointly chairs the corporate practice. In team news, Andrzej Laprus was promoted to counsel, and Marek Sawicki left in June 2023, as did Zbigniew Pindel to Deloitte Legal, Ostrowski, Gizicki i Wspólnicy sp.k..
Practice head(s):
Zuzanna Zakrzewska; Magdalena Kasiarz
Other key lawyers:
Jakub Organ; Piotr Gogol; Zbigniew Pindel; Andrzej Laprus; Piotr Podsiadło; Igor Schwenk
Testimonials
‘Andrzej Laprus is confident and can address clients’ expectations smoothly.’
‘Very supportive, very responsive and dedicated.’
‘Excellent communication and coordination. Best support in negotiations of contracts. Quick and effective solutions.’
Key clients
Arriva PLC
Liugong
Polski Holding Hotelowy sp. z o.o.
BorgWarner
The SPAR Ltd.
Vestel Group
Honeywell
Cisco
Raytheon
3M
Mapei
JMP Medical sp. z o.o.
XTB S.A.
Afry Group
Kiloutou Polska
Abris Capital Partners
Energizer Holdings
Sieć Badawcza Łukasiewicz Instytutu Lotnictwa
Keyser & Mackay
EpicentrK Llc
IAI S.A.
Work highlights
- Advised Arriva, a multinational public transport company, on its distressed M&A deal, including the sale of its bus business in Poland to Mutares.
- Advised Liugong Dressta Machinery, a Chinese machine producer, on the sale of its business in Poland to Huta Stalowa Wola S.A.
GESSEL Attorneys at Law
GESSEL Attorneys at Law is well versed in M&A mandates and provides private equity and venture capital funds with support across the entire lifecycle of transactions, from due diligence and document drafting, to negotiations and representation in proceedings before the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection. Managing partner Marcin Macieszczak spearheads the practice and is highly adept at advising on capital transactions in the public and private arenas, in addition to structuring and executing leveraged buyout transactions.
Practice head(s):
Marcin Macieszczak
Other key lawyers:
Maciej Kożuchowski; Małgorzata Badowska; Michał Bochowicz; Karol Sokół; Krzysztof Jasiński
Key clients
Enterprise Investors
Inplus sp. z.o.o.
Suwary S.A
Wentworth Tech sp. z.o.o.
Savtec sp. z.o.o.
Lentex SA
Medicalgorithmics S.A.
Sunroof
VirtusLab
Sescom
BNP Parisbas Bank Polska
Avallon MBO
Telko OY
ORLEN Sythnos Green Energy sp. z.o.o.
MS Galleon GmbH
Work highlights
- Advised Polish Enterprise Fund VIII, one of the funds managed by Enterprise Investors, on investment in a 40% stake of BISAR S.A.
- Advised Inplus sp. z o.o. on a purchase from the previous shareholders of a 100% stake in Smart Factor sp. z o.o.
- Advised the Management Board of Suwary S.A. and its former shareholders, Wentworth Tech sp. z o.o. and Savtec sp. z o.o., on a PLN100m sale of 65% of Suwary S.A.’s shares to Przetwórstwo Tworzyw Sztucznych Plast-Box S.A.
Hogan Lovells (Warszawa) LLP
Hogan Lovells (Warszawa) LLP utilises its global network to provide clients with a seamless cross-border offering. Sectors of note for the team include the IT and technology, automotive, finance and insurance, pharmaceutical, and real estate industries. Managing partner Beata Balas-Noszczyk plays an active role in the M&A team, which is led by counsel Tomasz Żak, who has further expertise in reorganisations and corporate governance matters. Counsel Tomasz Grygorczuk leads the commercial offering. Marek Wroniak retired in January 2023.
Practice head(s):
Beata Balas-Noszczyk; Tomasz Żak; Tomasz Grygorczuk
Other key lawyers:
Piotr Kwasiborski; Tomasz Pietrzak
Testimonials
‘Very professional and pragmatic. Very dedicated to the subject matter.’
‘High professionalism, high expertise and always prudent.’
‘The teams have shown excellent aptitude at dealing with the complex construction they were being faced with. We have specifically appreciated the dedication of the team, constant availability of key staff members, and excellent capacity at dealing with specific issues encountered in the countries involved with our deal.’
‘Outstanding command of all legal and fiscal technical parameters of the transaction.’
‘Partners’ and associates’ capacity to think out of the box and come up with innovative recommendations.’
Key clients
Nationale Nederlanden
Daimler Group
Oriens private equity fund
Intel
HR Group
International Finance Corporation
mFinanse S.A. and mBank S.A.
Interpublic Group
IBM
Viatris
Arcus Infrastructure Partners
Nutreco
Nissan
New Look Retailers
Novelpay
Revvity
MoneyGram
Honeywell
ERGO Group
ABC Technologies
BBI Development S.A.
Vestas Development
DTEK Renovables
Weener Plastics Group
Creative Associates International
Astaris
Negomarkets
J&J Worldwide Services
Labcorp
Panattoni Group
Saur Polska
ABC Automotive
ID Logistics Group
Neogen Corporation
Nova Ventures
D.A.S. Towarzystwo Ubezpieczeń Ochrony Prawnej S.A.
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
Polish Development Fund
Work highlights
- Advising ID Logistics France SAS on the purchase of Spedimex sp. z o. o.
- Advising Nissan Automotive Europe SAS on the Polish legal and tax aspects of a project concerning the Polish branch of Nissan’s Hungarian commercial entity, Nissan Sales Central & Eastern Europe Kereskedelmi.
- Advising Oriens PE Fund on the acquisition of 100% of the shares in Transystem S.A.
Kochanski & Partners
Kochanski & Partners has two distinct teams, the first focusing on transactional matters under the leadership of Paweł Cholewiński; it regularly undertakes M&A transactions, especially in the real estate sector. The second group, which is spearheaded by Rafał Rapala, is focused on corporate mandates and advises clients on reorganisations and shareholder agreements. The firm also benefits from a strong energy department, and is consequently active in energy-related M&A transactions.
Practice head(s):
Paweł Cholewiński; Rafał Rapala
Other key lawyers:
Pawel Mardas; Karol Połosak; Aneta Serowik
Testimonials
‘The firm’s corporate practice has in-depth knowledge on the market standards of M&A transactions.’
‘Rafał Rapala is a very good M&A lawyer, is always in command of the transaction and can provide legal solutions to problems as they arise. It is very good to work with him and his team.’
‘Very responsive, proactive, commercially minded and entrepreneurial. Also an inclusive and friendly bunch. Would recommend highly.’
‘Paweł Cholewiński is excellent.’
Key clients
State Street Corporation
State Street Bank
State Street Global Advisors
Polish Airlines LOT
INDUS Holding AG
Farmak Group
Blachotrapez
Revolt Energy
Symfonia
Diebold Nixdorf
Huuuge Games
Ferro Corp.
Norblin Group
Ringer Axel Springer
Black & Veatch
Echo Polska Properties
Redefine
Dom Development
YIT Development
Deutsche Hypo
AccorInvest Group S.A.
Universal Fibers Inc.
Investica
Knight Frank
Murapol
Skanska Property Poland
Skanska Residential
Griffin Capital Partners
Savills
Plastipack
Oxenwood Real Estate (UK)
Coca-Cola HBC
Air Products
Beneteau Group
Reckitt Benckiser
Johnson Matthey PLC
Newcold
Tritax
PBG Group
Skalar Office Center
Havi Logistics
Personnel Service
Inter Cars S.A.
Gaz-System S.A.
The Seelig Group
Pacific Media Group
Pagra
Voodoo
Panattoni Europe
Inovo Venture Partners
Chrysler Poland and FCA Group Poland
Work highlights
- Advising a US private equity fund and its operational business on an investment in the field of frozen foods logistics.
- Advising Universal Fibers, Inc. and its subsidiaries on the Polish law aspects of a $250m facility agreement, with TCW Asset Management Company LLC acting as administrative agent and security agent of the lenders.
- Advising a client on the acquisition of the Brown Brothers Harriman & Co.’s Investor Services business, including its custody, accounting, fund administration, global markets, and technology services.
Penteris
Penteris is recommended by one client for ‘all things commercial, corporate and M&A’, and is especially notable in advising clients on both the buy and sell-side on joint ventures, acquisitions, reverse buyouts, and partial takeovers, as well as share transfers, dispositions, and governance matters. Managing partner and ‘remarkable lawyer‘ Agnieszka Pytlas is a core senior contact in the team, as are Wojciech Fabrycki and Tomasz Kudelski. The department has a focus on the real estate, retail, energy, electronics, new technology, and industrial sectors.
Practice head(s):
Agnieszka Pytlas; Wojciech Fabrycki; Tomasz Kudelski
Other key lawyers:
Jeremiasz Kuśmierz; Irmina Kondraciuk; Justyna Jóźwiak; Aleksandra Rogalska; Andrzej Tokaj
Testimonials
‘Penteris legal and business services are the best in the business. They get it done when they say they’ll get it done, and they know how to service the needs of my business. They know the market in which my industry operates, they know the law and they provide great business advice. My best recommendation is the fact that I have been working with the people at Penteris for about 25 years and will continue to do so.’
‘Andrzej Tokaj is exceptional; a confident legal professional and brilliant businessman. Whatever the challenge, whatever the complexity, my business is safe in Andrzej’s hands. He has it all covered: corporate, M&A, real estate, and litigation.’
‘Agnieszka Pytlas is a remarkable lawyer. Brilliant in organising local or international legal teams and coordinating complicated corporate work.’
Key clients
Urvis Bike
Sofigate Group Oy
Lutheran World Federation
YARA Marine Technologies
Alumetal
Meta
Immofinanz AG
K2
dsm-firmenich
Plukon Food Group
Henri Lloyd
Parfums Christian Dior
Magnit Global Poland
DeepL
Work highlights
- Advising Alumetal on the sale of all its shares to Norwegian group Norsk Hydro ASA for more than PLN1bn.
- Supported IMMOFINANZ with its €342m purchase of a cross-border retail portfolio in the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary.
- Advising Meta on all day-to-day corporate matters with regards to its Polish operations.
PwC Legal Zelaznicki sp.k.
PwC Legal Zelaznicki sp.k. frequently assists domestic, foreign, and multinational corporations, as well as Polish state-owned companies, with cross-border M&A transactions, corporate projects, and reorganisations. Sectors of note for the group are broad ranging and encompass the automotive, construction, financial services, healthcare, and energy industries, among others. The practice is led by managing partner Cezary Żelaźnicki, who is capably assisted by deputy heads Beata Kiedrowicz and Wojciech Trzciński.
Practice head(s):
Cezary Żelaźnicki; Beata Kiedrowicz; Wojciech Trzciński
Other key lawyers:
Artur Gątowski; Mariusz Kamiński; Robert Choromański; Jacek Pawłowski
Key clients
Unilab LP
AC Marca Group
General Electric Group
Grupa Żywiec S.A.
VarrocCorp Holding B.V.
Drosed Holding S.A.
Blumenbecker Engineering Polska sp. z o.o.
Sennheiser Global Operations GmbH
Work highlights
- Advised Medvic S.A.R.L., a member of Unilab Group, on the acquisition of a 75% stake in Health Labs Care S.A., a major distributor of dietary supplements, cosmetics and special-purpose food on the Polish market.
- Assisted a company from AC Marca Group with the acquisition of the dermo-cosmetic business of Pharmena S.A., which includes such brands as Dermena, Novaja, and Thermi.
- Advising General Electric Group on its day-to-day operations.
Wardynski & Partners
Wardynski & Partners offers clients a multi-disciplinary approach by utilising the firm’s strong IP, technology, employment, and antitrust departments. Michał Wons sits at the helm of the M&A team, while also co-heading the estate group, and Kinga Ziemnicka leads the corporate and corporate accounting group. They are ably supported by Jakub Lerner, who is qualified in the UK, the US, and Poland, and Adam Pawlisz, who has expertise in advising Scandinavian, American, British, and German investors.
Practice head(s):
Jakub Lerner; Adam Pawlisz; Michał Wons; Kinga Ziemnicka
Other key lawyers:
Łukasz Śliwiński
Testimonials
‘I have been very impressed by the work Kinga Ziemnicka has done over the years for our mutual clients. She does a great job bringing in other team members as needed and always follows through.’
‘Very good and responsive team with a hands-on mentality. Are used to international standards of contracts.’
‘Jakub Lerner is a great negotiator, delivers practical advice and coordinates the entire team. Very quick turnaround times when needed.’
Key clients
Barnes Group Inc.
Alten Group
Ørsted A/S
Ørsted Polska sp. z o.o.
LyondellBasell Industries N.V.
Specialioji Uždarojo Tipo Nekilnojamojo Turto Investicinė Bendrovė AB TEWOX
Semperit Group
Sewertronics S.L.
Macadam Europe N.V.
Bergs Timber AB
Wysoka Grzęda sp. z o.o.
Tertinall Investments S.A.
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.
Natsu Foods GmbH & CO. KG
Hampiðjan hf.
Cainiao Network
Bucher Group
Nouryon Chemicals International B.V.
CAREL INDUSTRIES S.p.A.
Spider Investments Luxembourg S.à r.l.
Kulczyk Investments S.A.
Bauer Media Group
JassBoard sp. z o.o.
Work highlights
- Advised Barnes Group Inc. on the Polish aspects of its $740m acquisition of MB Aerospace.
- Advised Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. on the acquisition of 100% of the shares in Curiosity Diagnostics sp. z o.o. from Scope Fluidics SA for a total consideration of up to $170m, consisting of an upfront payment and future milestone payments.
- Advised Alten Group, a French listed company and a major player in engineering and IT services, on the acquisition of Solwit S.A.
CRIDO
The corporate and M&A team at CRIDO supports Polish and foreign entities, and boasts international connections with law firms, tax advisors, and corporate finance boutiques, allowing the team to support clients on an international level. Company and corporate law expert Mateusz Baran heads up the corporate team, while Przemysław Furmaga takes a leading role in M&A mandates. Furmaga is also skilled in buyouts and corporate disputes. Mateusz Stańczyk is the name ro note for M&A tax law mandates.
Practice head(s):
Mateusz Baran; Przemysław Furmaga
Other key lawyers:
Mateusz Stańczyk; Katarzyna Żółcińska; Andrzej Dunikowski; Barbara Kwaśnicka; Aleksandra Czarnecka
Testimonials
‘I think that their knowledge of the industry and professional approach is very important. I know they are there for me and ready to support. They are always prepared and able to provide various options to resolve any given topic.’
‘Their knowledge and understanding of the topic made us feel comfortable and secure that our business in Poland will be compliant in all aspects. They are always available and engaged, very efficient in delivering what is required. Summary messages make the process very transparent. Everybody understands what needs to be done.’
‘Katarzyna Żółcińska has great legal competence, is reactive, proposes business solutions, and has very good communication skills.’
‘Knowledgeable, responsive, assertive, proactive and solution oriented. Ability to think outside-the-box and flexible as to the needs of the clients. Pragmatic and goal-oriented approach.’
‘Mateusz Baran has remarkable legal expertise and adeptness at navigating complex legal matters under Polish laws. He is proactive with high commitment to provide tailored legal solutions.’
‘Katarzyna Żółcińska is an insightful and experienced practitioner with strong technical knowledge of Polish laws. She is proactive, responsive and business oriented.’
‘Agile and very commercially oriented. Very flexible in meeting our demands on a very time sensitive matter. Small and very dedicated team.’
‘I am working primarily with Aleksandra Czarnecka and it is a pleasure for me to work with her. She is a very good negotiator and she had the right solution for every problem. She is an expert in the profession.’
Key clients
iSpot
Kiwa
IKEA
Wielton
RelyOn Nutec
Amplifon
Dr Irena Eris
Saker
Jacquet Metals
Ostrovit
Avenger Flight Group
Lewandpol
MCI Capital
Work highlights
- Advised iSpot Poland on the acquisition of competitor Cortland.
- Advised Wielton on launching a new division named Aberg, incorporating new companies and negotiating transaction documents with new business partners.
- Advised Saker on starting a joint venture with its business partners and opening a recycling plant.
Deloitte Legal, Ostrowski, Gizicki i Wspólnicy sp.k.
Deloitte Legal, Ostrowski, Gizicki i Wspólnicy sp.k.‘s corporate and M&A department works closely with the firm’s tax and financing groups to provide clients with an all-encompassing offering. The team is adept at supporting private entrepreneurs and business owners with succession planning and reorganisations. Amongst the senior members of the group, Jacek Korzeniewski and Tomasz Ciećwierz are key players in the M&A space, while Mariusz Śron and Robert Uhl are especially skilled in corporate law mandates.
Practice head(s):
Tomasz Ciećwierz; Jacek Korzeniewski; Mariusz Śron; Robert Uhl
Other key lawyers:
Karol Ciszak; Monika Skocz; Jakub Łabuz
Testimonials
‘Prompt response to individual requests and a constructive effort to find solutions to problems. Excellent knowledge of the law and its application, which helps a lot in the decision-making process.’
‘Jakub Łabuz is simply one of the best lawyers we have ever had the opportunity to work with. He is very dedicated and helpful in dealing with complex legal situations.’
‘The firm has an outstanding team with a long bench of experienced senior lawyers that makes Deloitte Legal capable of very broad assistance within the field.’
‘Flexibility in terms of accommodating the client’s needs is one of their key differentiators on the market. The client may always count on them, both in terms of devoting sufficient capacities, as well as delivering appropriate added value.’
‘Jacek Korzeniewski is the one whose excellence in corporate and commercial matters is obvious. What helps Jacek to bring extraordinary value is the fact of being simply a good human being. While being not an obvious factor at the first sight, this allows him to help two parties of any transaction Jacek is involved in to get closer together in business terms.’
Key clients
Marketing Investment Group S.A.
LKN Wealth Capital Investors sp. z o.o.
Rohlig Suus Logistics S.A.
Karl Storz Polska sp. z o.o.
NCBR Investment Fund ASI S.A.
McWin Partners
Scope Fluidics S.A.
ZPUE S.A., Koronea sp. z o.o.
Polmos Bielsko-Biala S.A.
Pelion S.A.,
Professor Adam Dzik
Dr Piotr Trypens
Korporacja Inwestycyjna Polskiej Farmacja sp. z o. o
The Green Organic Dutchman Holdings Ltd.
European Imaging Group Limited
Shareholders of FireTMS.com spółka z ograniczoną odpowiedzialnością
Airex AG
Agrarada sp. z o.o.
Work highlights
- Advised Scope Fluidics on the sale of Curiosity Diagnostics sp. z o.o.
- Advised Marketing Investment Group S.A., a JD Sports Fashion Plc group company, on the acquisition of a chain of 22 stores in Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- Advised private investment firm McWin Partners on the acquisition of BK SEE Poland S.A., which operates 20 Burger King restaurants in Poland.
DWF Poland Jamka Sp.k
Managing partner Michał Pawłowski, Filip Urbaniak, and Rafał Wozniak are the key senior names in DWF Poland Jamka Sp.k‘s corporate and M&A department, which is adept at advising industrial clients, financial institutions, and financial investors on public and private transactions. Its offering extends to transactions regarding the issuing, transfer, purchase, and sale of securities, as well as the purchase and sale of operating entities.
Practice head(s):
Michał Pawłowski; Filip Urbaniak; Rafał Woźniak
Other key lawyers:
Adrian Jonca; Anna Wietrzyńska-Ciołkowska; Izabela Szczygielska; Lech Najbauer; Krzysztof Kropidłowski
Testimonials
‘From our perspective, DWF’s team is built correctly; whenever we ask them about something, we will quickly get feedback. There are quite a lot of lawyers specialised in particular cases.’
‘We often require a wide range of legal services for our projects and DWF is able to successfully address and resolve our legal needs. On top of that, DWF responsiveness is timely and excellent, which inspires us with a high level of confidence.’
‘It has been a pleasure to work with them throughout this last year of collaboration, the service has been excellent. In addition, their experience and expertise have been key to the successful closing of our transaction.’
Key clients
Teufelberger GmbH
Fortaco Group
Dobra Energia dla Olsztyna
Meridiam
KPMG
PKP PLK S.A.
Augusta Energy sp. z o.o.
Sun Power Energy sp. z o.o.
Wordline
TEMARED sp. z o.o.
PAD RES DEVELOPMENT sp. z o.o.
ONDE S.A.
NEBO Solar sp. z o.o.
Enter Air S.A.
Work highlights
- Advised the sole shareholder of Unitrailer Holding on the sale of the company to Vaalon Capital.
- Advised Teufelberger on a joint acquisition, with a co-investor, of 100% of the shares in Marflex – M.J. Maillis Poland and the subsequent demerger of the company.
- Advised Augusta Energy sp. z o.o. on the sale of a portfolio of renewable energy projects.
Eversheds Sutherland Poland
The M&A team at Eversheds Sutherland Poland is skilled at handling mid-market corporate transactions, and frequently undertakes reorganisations while encouraging awareness of ESG strategies. Ewa Szlachetka spearheads the group and boasts expertise in the acquisition of public companies and restructuring of capital groups, as well as private equity and venture capital transactions. Szlachetka is ably supported by of counsel Krzysztof Feluch.
Practice head(s):
Ewa Szlachetka
Other key lawyers:
Krzysztof Feluch; Grzegorz Barszcz; Maciej Tuszyński
Testimonials
‘Services offered by Eversheds Sutherland Poland are unique thanks to the human factor. The team is open to new solutions, and flexible in approach to client needs.’
‘Punctuality of service. Excellent telephone and email contact. I had the pleasure of working with Krzysztof Feluch, who was responsible for a very important area within the M&A process.’
Key clients
Advantage Smollan GmbH
Airbridge Equity Partners
Bang & Bonsomer Group Ab
Experian
Green Genius
Modus Group
Parker Hannifin
Perma-Fix Environmental, Inc.
Perwyn/SilverTree Equity
Ricoh
SFC Solutions Częstochowa Sp. z o.o.
ZignSec AB
Work highlights
- Advised a Polish family house, Ewmaj Jędrzejczyk I Spółka, on a transaction aimed at the sale of supermarkets.
- Avised Costa Coffee Group on the sale of its Polish and Latvian subsidiaries to Lagardère.
- Advised H2 Equity Partners on the sale of European provider of ophthalmic services Optegra Eye Health Care to Mid Europa Partners.
GSW Legal Grabarek, Szalc i Wspólnicy Sp.k.
Rafał Szalc heads up GSW Legal Grabarek, Szalc i Wspólnicy Sp.k.‘s corporate team, and he jointly chairs the M&A group alongside Maria Janicka. On the corporate side, the team is adept at handling conflicts and negotiating contracts. On the M&A side, transactional work includes both domestic and cross-border mandates, as well as exits and market entry work. Former co-head Tomasz Grabarek joined BDDG Bartosiewicz, Di Dea, Grabarek radcowie prawni sp. p in June 2023.
Practice head(s):
Rafał Szalc; Maria Janicka
Other key lawyers:
Marzena Obiedzińska-Wójcik
Testimonials
‘I think that it is a dynamic, constantly developing law firm that adapts to the needs of clients and the dynamics of changes in the legal services market. Ongoing consulting in the field of our company’s business activities is at a very high level.The lawyers are very approachable, relatable and, most importantly, very professional.’
‘Rafał Szalc deserves special attention. We cooperate with him most often. He is easily accessible, conscientious and reliable. I appreciate very much his excellent knowledge of issues related to commercial company law, capital markets, and mergers and acquisitions. He is very accurate, precise and does not miss any details. I think he is an excellent, brilliant, agile lawyer.’
‘The GSW team covers a wide range of legal issues. They respond very quickly and professionally to the topics raised. Moreover, they approach the discussed issues comprehensively and do not limit themselves to just completing the task.’
‘Rafał Szalc is a lawyer who understands the client’s perspective exceptionally well and supports investment processes effectively. He mitigates all risks and handles matters very efficiently. Even in challenging situations, he proposes solutions that streamline the investment process.’
‘Marzena Obiedzińska-Wójcik supports corporate matters and contracts with counterparts, demonstrating significant efficiency and an unconventional approach to proposed solutions. Her characteristic feature is openness to finding solutions and quick action.’
‘GSW is a team of experts in commercial and capital law. They are very communicative and always find a fresh and creative solution.’
‘Rafał Szalc is an exceptional specialist in capital and corporate law. I can only think highly of him. His commitment to every case is at a very high level and thanks to his experience he can handle any problem or situation.’
‘Maria Janicka is a great expert in commercial law. She has extensive experience in corporate services and M&A projects. Her great advantage is her excellent sense of business, thanks to which her advice always considers the business perspective.’
Key clients
4Mobility S.A.
American School of Warsaw
Central European Engine Services sp. z o.o.
Changemaker Educations Ab
Digital Care Capital Group
Eidotech sp. z o.o.
Elemental Holding S.A.
Elkom Trade
Futbol24.Com
Lincoln Storm Group
LOT Aircraft Maintenance Services sp. z o.o.
ITBoom sp. z o.o.
Mazovia Capital
Soflab Technology sp. z o.o.
Start Parking
Ecom Media sp. z o.o.
Connected Life sp. z o.o.
Capital Partners
Powiśle BJK Spółka z ograniczoną odpowiedzialnością
Pointpack S.A.
Termisil Glass sp. z o. o.
iMad sp. z o.o.
Neweco spzo spk
Work highlights
- Advised Pointpack S.A. on the acquisition of 51% of the shares in P2A BOX sp. z o. o. and asssisted with negotiations of the terms and conditions of further investment in this target company.
- Advised Capital Partners Funds, as well as the founders and majority shareholders of Orbitvu Sp. z o.o. on the acquisition of the majority stake in Orbitvu Sp. z o.o. by Abris Capital Partners.
- Advised shareholders of PGA Accounting sp. z o.o. on the acquisition of the entire stake in PGA Accounting sp. z o.o. by ASB Poland of ASB Group.
JDP Drapala & Partners
JDP Drapala & Partners is often engaged by foreign firms to act as local counsel on high-value cross-border transactions, and the firm has a strong focus on German-speaking countries as well as clients entering the Polish market. The commercial, corporate, and M&A group has an increasing focus on the technology sector. The practice is chaired by Marcin Chomiuk, who has significant experience acting on both the buy and sell side of M&A transactions.
Practice head(s):
Marcin Chomiuk
Other key lawyers:
Magdalena Bartnik; Marcin Lewiński; Adrian Andrychowski; Maciej Chrzan
Testimonials
‘I have been working with JDP on a major M&A project for several months. JDP is able to help us comprehensively, not only in terms of legal advice, but also tax and insurance.’
‘It has highly qualified specialists in various fields, so it can advise comprehensively and be the only provider to work on a project, which allows for greater efficiency, safety, and coherence in many areas.’
‘Marcin Lewiński has taken on the difficult role of leader/coordinator of the M&A process, and he performs it very well. He is responsive, specific, looks at the problem broadly, and is flexible. In addition, he is very communicative and uses his experience gained at a Big4 law firm, which makes him have a slightly different way of working.’
‘Marcin Lewiński is very knowledgeable in his field and he is dynamic and communicative. He listens to the client’s needs and tries to implement them, being an ambassador for the client throughout the work, for which I am very grateful to him.’
‘Great collaboration, business focus and flexibility. Wide portfolio of experts.’
‘Marcin Chomiuk has extraordinary knowledge and experience in German law, connecting experience from litigation, M&A, and financing.’
Key clients
ALD Automotive
EQT
Apleona Group
FreeNow
MyTaxi
Terminal, Inc.
Adezz Group & Pro
Laumann Group
Unibep
Scope Fluidics
Schwarzmüller
Tier/Nextbike
Sanhua Holding Group Co., Ltd.
Work highlights
- Advised ALD, a subsidiary of Société Générale, on the Polish part of the acquisition of LeasePlan Group for €4.9bn.
- Advised EQT Mid Market Europe and EQT Mid Market Asia III funds on the Polish part of the sale of BBS Automation to MDAX-listed Dürr Group.
- Advised Laumann Group on the acquisition of a majority stake in Ponzio Polska sp. z o.o.
Noerr
Noerr‘s client base spans both local and international companies, and the practice assists them with their market entry, strategic and greenfield investments, and M&A transactions, as well as advising them on complex restructuring processes, joint ventures, and business expansions. Karol Kicun is the new practice head following his arrival in February 2023 from MJH Moskwa, Jarmul, Haładyj i Wspólnicy sp.k., and he brings with him notable expertise in cross-border and multi-jurisdictional transactions, and a client base of notable investment and PE funds. Renata Patoka joined the firm in January 2023 from SSW. Krzysztof Banaszek is singled out by one client as a 'prominent name to remember'.
Practice head(s):
Karol Kicun
Other key lawyers:
Renata Patoka; Krzysztof Banaszek
Testimonials
‘Noerr was able to assist us with a highly difficult acquisition project with a combination of complex documents within extremely ambitious deadlines. They were available and reliable in their legal capacities. We were impressed by the way they provided their services.’
‘Professional approach, quick and flexible support in the area needed. Noerr quickly provided highly skilled experts. I also enjoyed the friendly contact with partners and associates.’
‘Krzysztof Banaszek excelled in very high qualification, background knowledge, experience from previous projects, ability and willingness to share and use his experience for the project we worked on. Furthermore, I want to mention his language skills, being able to provide legal documents in the same, highest quality in German as well as in English.’
‘Krzysztof Banaszek has a great business mindset and judgement, outstanding technical skills and very strong communication skills. He is focused, always available and works well under pressure. A great professional.’
‘Noerr Warsaw’s corporate and M&A team handles a large volume of high-profile, international deals across a variety of industries. The team has a strong track record in international and domestic corporate transactions and supports all types of corporate businesses.’
‘A prominent name to remember is Krzysztof Banaszek. Krzysztof is extremely knowledgeable, detail-oriented and genuinely an excellent lawyer. He mainly handles international M&A deals and has a great understanding of his clients’ business needs across multiple sectors.’
‘In my view, the firm provides legal services on a top international level. The team that we had an opportunity to work with delivered high-quality services, was focused and easily available and worked with highest standards. The projects we worked on were cross-border and with high levels of complexity. The services were provided in accordance with highest international standards.’
‘Karol Kicun is a business-oriented and committed specialist with strong, local expertise. He is very proactive and always tries to find a suitable solution. Very pleasant to work with.’
Key clients
TAG Immobilien AG
Aurelius
Inflexion
Inter-Cars S.A.
Wirtualna Polska Holding
Polish Development Fund Group
Industrial Development Agency JSC
Work highlights
- Advised ILS, a subsidiary of Inter Cars S.A., on the creation of a joint venture with Danx, a logistics company.
- Advised a company which specialises in the production and supply of adhesives on the acquisition of a manufacturer of a range of chemical and technical products.
- Advised a global private equity firm on the acquisition of a business listed on the London Stock Exchange.
Norton Rose Fulbright
Norton Rose Fulbright‘s client roster spans a range of industries, from financial services, healthcare, infrastructure, and transport, to FMCG and e-commerce. Its offering includes advice on M&A transactions and due diligence reviews, and it benefits from the expertise of the firm’s competition, labour, dispute resolution, and insurance departments. Agnieszka Braciszewska sits at the helm of the practice. In team news, Maciej Dubiel was promoted to senior associate in April 2023.
Practice head(s):
Agnieszka Braciszewska
Other key lawyers:
Piotr Strawa; Aneta Janecka; Maciej Dubiel; Jan Nowjalis
Testimonials
‘Good focus and pragmatic approach.’
‘High level of customer service by Piotr Strawa.’
Key clients
Abris Capital Partners
Acrisure
Aegon Growth Capital
Allianz Capital Partners GmbH, London Branch
Aquila Capital Management GmbH
Aquiline Capital Partners
Arise AB
AXA XL
BlackRock
Bioventus
BP International
CAE
Cognizant Technology Solutions
Conning Holdings
Derossi Invest GmbH
DOT2DOT
Enel Green Power S.p.A.
Energizer
Igneo Infrastructure Partners
Lantmännen ek för
Lear Corporation
Lumine Group
Niam Infrastructure
Ortolan Capital GmbH
PGE Polska Grupa Energetyczna
Pinterest Inc.
Renesola
Rockwell Automation
SEG Electronics GmbH
Societe Generale Equipment Leasing
Sompo International
SUSI Partners
TAURON Polska Energia S.A.
Velvet Care sp. z o.o.
Zhangjiakou Financial Holding Group
Work highlights
- Advising Acrisure on the acquisition of Unilink, a Polish insurance multi-agent also operating in Bulgaria, Romania and Moldova.
- Advising Lumine Group on the acquisition of Titanium Software Holdings, Inc. and all of its subsidiaries.
- Advised Cognizant Technology Solutions Corporation on the acquisition of Mobica Holdings Limited.
Radzikowski, Szubielska i Wspólnicy sp. j.
Managing partner Wlodzimierz Radzikowski and founding partner Gabriel Wujek lead the corporate, commercial and M&A department at Radzikowski, Szubielska i Wspólnicy sp. j., and recent sectors of activity for the group include oil and gas, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, automobiles, and real estate. Its offering extends across complex M&A transactions involving corporate and financial restructurings, as well as disputes. Leveraged buyouts, joint ventures, demergers, and divestitures also form a key part of the group’s work.
Practice head(s):
Wlodzimierz Radzikowski; Gabriel Wujek
Other key lawyers:
Martyna Kamińska-Tabaka; Dariusz Michalski; Agnieszka Piasecka; Joanna Jabłońska; Aleksandra Mikołajczyk-Bonarek
SMM Legal
Energy, manufacturing, technology, and the public sectors form key areas of focus for the corporate and M&A department at SMM Legal. Its offering encompasses M&A transactions, restructurings, private placements, and corporate maintenance. Managing partner Maciej Mataczyński sits as head of the practice and is active in the firm’s major M&A mandates, as are Tomasz Jaranowski and Mateusz Stańczyk. Managing partner Aleksander Czech is another name to note.
Practice head(s):
Maciej Mataczyński; Aleksander Czech
Other key lawyers:
Marcin Czarnecki; Tomasz Jaranowski; Magdalena Cisowska; Miłosz Malaga; Mateusz Stańczyk; Kinga Dziennik
Testimonials
‘SMM Legal’s team is outstandingly professional and dedicated. You won’t regret if you choose them to defend or lobby your interests.’
‘All members of SMM Legal are true professionals, however, I would like to especially point out Mateusz Stańczyk. Working with him is pure pleasure. He is really thinking outside the box, finding creative solutions, and he has profound experience in what he does.’
‘SMM Legal is very responsive and they put the client’s needs first to get the best outcome for the client. They understand the client’s business and think quite economically, which is highly appreciated by clients.’
Key clients
ORLEN S.A.
Giełda Papierów Wartościowych w Warszawie S.A.
National Centre For Research and Development
Grupa LOTOS S.A.
Rotometal DBN sp. z o.o.
Rafineria Gdańska sp. z o.o.
GL Optic Polska sp. z o.o.
Coventry University
evoila GmbH
Międzynarodowe Targi Poznańskie sp. z o.o. z siedzibą w Poznaniu
Polish Biomethane Organization
Work highlights
- Advising ORLEN S.A on the takeover process of Grupa LOTOS S.A.
- Advising ORLEN S.A. on the takeover process of Polskie Górnictwo Naftowe i Gazownictwo S.A.
- Advised Coventry University on the establishment of a research institute in Poland using private law measures.
SSW
SSW advises both sellers and buyers on all the stages of a diverse range of transactions, including buyout transactions, direct investments, and joint venture projects. Its client roster includes private equity funds, sectoral investors, and private individuals. Mateusz Rogoziński and Leszek Cyganiewicz are the key contacts. Michał Badowski and Renata Patoka left to join Tomczykowski Tomczykowska Sp. z o.o. and Noerr, respectively, in June and January 2023.
Other key lawyers:
Mateusz Rogoziński; Leszek Cyganiewicz
Testimonials
‘Mateusz Rogoziński has proven himself on the deal as a knowledgeable M&A professional and skilled negotiator. He has a pragmatic approach, focused on problem solving and deal making. Mateusz is responsive, eager to find customised solutions and provides business-driven advice.’
‘SSW has supported us on a couple of occasions so far. What we value in them is that they offer a full range of services under one roof. They are well organised, react quickly and ensure good quality.’
‘We were advised on the M&A transaction by the team of Mateusz Rogoziński from the SSW law firm. The team has shown very good management skills as well as the ability to work under high pressure while maintaining a clear mind. They demonstrate a strong commitment and wide range of experience in this type of process.’
Key clients
Rpower
Remondis
Kruk
Unibep
Pollen Street Capital
Innova Capital
Bencis Capital
Boryszew
Spire Capital
Afinum PE
Kospel
Rohlig Suus
LERG
Zeus Packaging
G2A
Masterchem
Kom-Eko
WDB
Spedimex
Lenovo
Work highlights
- Advised Remondis on the acquisition of 16 heat and energy generating plants (SFW group).
- Advised PGNiG on a merger with PKN Orlen.
- Advised the owners of Spedimex on the sale of 100% of its shares to the French group ID Logistics.
Taylor Wessing Poland
In addition to advising clients on public M&A, capital markets, and regulatory issues, the team at Taylor Wessing Poland handles related competition and compliance matters. The group is skilled at supporting clients with mandates relevant to the entire company lifecycle, from formation and early-stage joint venture funding, to investment deals and exits. Olav Nemling and Andrzej Mikosz jointly head the practice, which saw the promotion of Marta Janowska to senior associate in May 2023.
Practice head(s):
Olav Nemling; Andrzej Mikosz
Other key lawyers:
Jakub Pitera; Marta Janowska; Katarzyna Matusiak; Patrycja Sojka
Testimonials
‘Detailed knowledge of Polish corporate culture and regulations, well translated for international investors.’
‘All the TW Poland people we have interacted with have been highly professional and knowledgeable. In particular, Olav Nemling.’
Key clients
PZU S.A.
TFI PZU S.A.
MLP Group S.A.
BioMaxima S.A.
Work highlights
- Advised Towarzystwo Funduszy Inwestycyjnych PZU S.A. on the merger of the acquiring company, with Towarzystwo Funduszy Inwestycyjnych Energia S.A.
- Advised MLP Group S.A. on the establishment of a new bond issuance programme under which the company will be able to issue bonds in EUR and PLN, in more than one series, for a total amount of up to €100m.
- Advised a global technology equity venture capital firm on its investment in a Polish software company.
act BSWW legal & tax
act BSWW legal & tax supports Polish and foreign companies, as well as investment entities, with a range of commercial and corporate law matters, covering the acquisition and disposal of shares and assets, mergers and diversions of companies, drafting and review of commercial agreements, and negotiation of joint ventures. The practice is led by a trio of managing partners: Marek Wojnar, Jacek Bieniak, and Piotr Wojnar.
Practice head(s):
Jacek Bieniak; Piotr Wojnar; Marek Wojnar
Other key lawyers:
Marta Kosiedowska; Janusz Szeliński; Mateusz Prokopiuk; Marlena Witkowska
Testimonials
‘Exceptionally good accessibility and very knowledgeable.’
‘In view of our long-lasting and very successful cooperation with the act BSWW firm, I recommend them as a professional and reliable business partner who provides our company with superior quality legal services that meet our expectations.’
‘Our cooperation with act BSWW is comprehensive and BSWW has been our leading and first choice legal advisor in Poland. We value the responsiveness and swiftness demonstrated by BSWW’s team. They are always on time and they propose legal solutions focused on the client’s problem.’
Key clients
Uno Capital Sp. z o.o.
Vesper Capital sp. z o.o.
Elektrotim S.A.
Moneguard 9 Sp. z o.o.
Comp Centrum Innowacji sp. z o.o.
Sices Polska Sp z.o.o
Work highlights
- Advised the Uno Capital fund and Marian Owerko, president of Bakalland sp. z o.o., on the shareholders’ agreement regulating an investment into Bakkalland, corporate governance principles and the merger between Bakalland sp. z o.o. and Purella sp. z o.o.
- Advised Vesper Capital sp. z o.o. on the acquisition of shares in ED Invest S.A.
- Advised Elektrotim S.A. on the sale of its subsidiary, Procom System S.A.
Andersen in Poland
At the beginning of 2023, Andersen in Poland underwent a merger with FKA, boosting its corporate, commercial and transactional capabilities. The practice’s offering extends across a range of mandates, including transformations and mergers, company reorganisations, corporate governance, and shareholder disputes. The practice is spearheaded by a trio comprising Tadeusz Komosa and managing partner Marcin Matyka, both of whom are based in Warsaw, and Piotr Krupa in Katowice.
Practice head(s):
Marcin Matyka; Piotr Krupa; Tadeusz Komosa
Other key lawyers:
Aneta Górecka; Bartłomiej Wietrzychowski; Angelina Długosz-Armańska; Leszek Rydzewski; Milena Wieczorek-Waszewska, Katarzyna de Rosset; Paulina Smulska
Testimonials
‘Dynamic, highly responsive team always ready to propose and find alternative solutions.’
‘Marcin Matyka and his team know very well their legal and business environment. They deal smoothly with the other law firms. Always finding solutions.’
‘Great agility in negotiation. Excellent command of English. A firm capable of handling all legal and tax issues.’
Key clients
Unimot
Marcin Żukowski
Shareholders of Ponzio Polska
iSpot Poland
Service Innovation Group
Makrowet
Delpharm
Nexteer Automotive Poland
Work highlights
- Advised Unimot Group on the acquisition of the fuel storage and bitumen disinvestment businesses from Grupa Lotos and PKN Orlen.
- Advised shareholders of Ponzio Polska, a major producer of aluminium structures and facades in Poland, on the sale of its business to a German purchaser from Veka Group.
- Advised an international producer from the automotive sector on a real estate transaction.
Baker Tilly Legal Poland
In September 2023, Baker Tilly Legal Poland merged with private client boutique PATH Law, adding two key senior practitioners to its ranks: Sergiusz Kielian and Dominika Mizielińska. Managing partner and restructuring expert Grzegorz Gajda is also a notable team member. The firm has seen an increase in its asset and share deals since the merger. Its client roster includes established corporate companies as well as high-net-worth business owners, and the group advises on both the buy and sell side of transactions.
Practice head(s):
Grzegorz Gajda; Sergiusz Kielian; Dominika Mizielińska
Testimonials
‘BT has a very wide range of competences that can cover all aspects of legal and HR areas. In addition, they are in close cooperation with very good tax advisors and audit companies.’
‘We know that, even in crisis situations, they will guide us through difficult conversations about problematic situations, focusing on the substance of solving the problem, presenting a new solution or a different approach.’
‘Exceptional engagement, partner availability and supported with very high-quality associates. The team is exceptionally effective in delivering high-quality legal product.’
Bakowski Law Firm
Since Bakowski Law Firm‘s establishment, it has focused on representing companies in possession of Polish and foreign capital who are operating on the Polish market; its offering encompasses advice to these clients on M&A transactions, commercial and corporate mandates, foreign direct investments, and regulatory issues. The senior practitioners in the group are the ‘amazing‘ Aldona Hapyn and Igor Bąkowski.
Practice head(s):
Aldona Hapyn; Igor Bąkowski
Testimonials
‘Igor Bąkowski is always readily available to discuss matters and is clear in answering questions.’
‘Bakowski Law Firm has been with us for so many years so they are almost like our staff. Everyone from the firm is just amazing, committed and focused on our company interests.’
‘Aldona Hapyn is amazing!’
‘Aldona Hapyn is very intelligent and understands our domain well.’
‘Very professional and diligent. Good understanding of not only the local law but also of the broader perspective; in particular, the differences between common law practices and continental law practices.’
‘Calm and well-balanced approach. Very thoughtful and careful before giving a legal opinion, making sure that all the intricacies of the law are taken into consideration. Listen to the business guidelines coming from the clients, adjusting the legal strategy accordingly.’
‘Very experienced and responsive team for M&A transactions and commercial assistance. Good working methodology, helpful step-by-step guidance, and explanation about what matters in the transaction and how to protect our company. Negotiated hard and supported our side very well.’
‘Igor Bąkowski and Aldona Hapyn are very experienced in M&A transactions and handling the due diligence and negotiation process. They worked hard to meet tight deadlines and prepared and negotiated detailed and professional transaction documentation. The team is very good at explaining complex legal matters in a business way and in reaching the client’s business needs.’
Key clients
Honeywell
iMILE
US Tech Solutions
Awra Group
Core3
Calmsie Sp. z o.o.
Qantifier Sp. z o.o.
Lamex
SPDC-ProWay
SPDC Holding
SPDC International
PCR Industri
Horyzont Media
Eskulap medical clinics
Habitat for Humanity
SkillsPoland sp. z o.o.
Well and Done
Polish Recycling Association
Zurad sp. z o.o.
PIT-Radwar S.A.
EDC Holdings Ltd
Slovenské elektrárne a.s.
Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc.
Belgacom International Carrier Services
CK Source Sp. z o.o.
deVere Group
BC Partners
Przyjaciele Kawy Sp. z o.o.
Nakamachi
ELI Inc.
Holistic Physio Sp. z o.o.
Prema S.A.
Prema-Inwest S.A.
Bywater Properties
SledovaniTV
Mozaic Group of Poland LLC
Tech-food S.A.
TNK Poland Sp. z o.o.
TRT – Trade Sp. z o.o.
TRT-Trade
Uab Bod Group
Unicoms
Kosmetyka Naturalna Sp. z o.o.
RMI Sp. z o.o.
Stalko
Work highlights
- Assisted Honeywell with expanding its building technology solutions projects in Poland.
- Advised SPDC Holding and SPDC International, major companies in the innovative recycling space, on several M&A transactions and investment agreements connected with expansion on the Polish market.
- Advised PIT-RADWAR, a major developer and producer of telecoms equipment and innovative solutions for the military, on the restructuring of its portfolio companies and negotiation of numerous national and international commercial contracts.
Krassowski
Krassowski has a particular focus on M&A transactions in the healthcare, energy, FMCG, IT, and telecoms sectors, and its client roster includes private equity funds, multinational corporations, entrepreneurs, and investors. Founding partner Bartosz Krassowski spearheads the practice with decades of experience in M&A and private equity transactions, and Natalia Grzędzińska and Krzysztof Makosz are also senior contacts in the team who are especially skilled in contract and company law.
Practice head(s):
Bartosz Krassowski; Natalia Grzędzińska; Krzysztof Makosz
Other key lawyers:
Natalia Wielgat; Karolina Kalinowska
Testimonials
‘Wide knowledge and practical negotiation abilities linked with M&A and antitrust law.’
‘High culture linked with interpersonal skills. Open-minded approach and focus on solving problems.’
Key clients
Systemics-PAB sp. o. o.
Bielenda Kosmetyki Naturalne S.A.
Diagnostyka S.A.
Innova Capital Sp. z o. o.
Luxmed Sp. z o.o.
Maczfit Sp. z o. o.
Melvit S.A.
Evoltec
EFFI Investments sp. z o.o.
Greenvolt Power Group sp. z o.o.
FertiMedica Centrum Płodności sp. z o.o. sp. k.
MDD Sp. z o.o.
Nile Invest sp. z o. o.
PZU Zdrowie S.A.
Hartenberg Capital s.r.o
Connectis sp. z o. o.
Work highlights
- Advised Systemics-PAB sp. z o.o. and its founders on the sale of a major part of the shares in Systemics-PAB sp. z o.o. to French investor Apave International SAS.
LegalKraft
LegalKraft has a broad offering that encompasses domestic and cross-border M&A transactions, acquisition of assets and spin-offs, joint ventures, and reorganisations. Of particular note is the firm’s ambition to focus on cross-border mandates spanning the Baltic sea, especially the Nordic and Baltic countries. Founding partner Artur Swirtun has expertise in technology and digital businesses. In September 2023, Daniel Jastrun, Bartosz Kurzec, Karolina Henriksson and Mykola Zembra departed to found Just_Law.
Practice head(s):
Artur Swirtun
Other key lawyers:
Kacper Dzik
Testimonials
‘Very adept at their everyday advice, instantly replying to all sorts of requests and helping to seamlessly navigate through the complex business environment. They have foreign language (not only English) speaking lawyers which is also very helpful in our everyday tasks.’
‘LegalKraft is a boutique company with a close-knit team who greatly cooperate together. All of the lawyers I had the pleasure to work with were experts with a high quality of personal skills and best market practice knowledge.’
‘Artur Swirtun is a senior-level lawyer with long-term business expertise.’
Key clients
Barilla
LTG Cargo
Max Poland
PEAB AB
The Polish -Scandinavian Chamber of Commerce
NGL Legal
NGL Legal is a go-to practice for SMEs situated locally and internationally, as well as state-owned companies, and the team advises on public and private transactions, as well as offering day-to-day corporate support. Practice head Krzysztof Wiater ‘has vast knowledge’ regarding high-value M&A transactions and restructurings, especially in the energy and insurance sectors.
Practice head(s):
Krzysztof Wiater
Other key lawyers:
Dominika Mazur; Aleksandra Król
Testimonials
‘Aleksandra Król has a bright future ahead of her; she has great legal knowledge, poise and confidence in negotiations and is a strong relationship builder.’
‘Krzysztof Wiater has vast knowledge and his relationships and insight into the legal environment are exceptional and a real value add.’
‘Individual approach and direct communication.’
Key clients
Polski Koncern Naftowy Orlen S.A.
Powszechny Zakład Ubezpieczeń S.A.
TAURON Polska Energia S.A.
Da Grasso shareholders
PGE Energia Odnawialna S.A.
EDP Comercial S.A
Enea S.A.
Grow Energy Management LDA
Sun Contracting AG
Raytheon Company
Work highlights
- Advising the shareholders of Da Grasso sp. z o.o. on the sale of their shares in the company.
- Advising Orlen S.A. on the acquisition of business from the joint venture between Orlen S.A. and LyondellBasell Industries Holdings, relating to the production, sale, and marketing of low-density polyethylene.
- Advising Raytheon Company, a major US military supplier, on offset matters connected with acquiring Phase I and Phase II mid-range air and missile defence systems, including LTAMDS radar.
Prof. Marek Wierzbowski and Partners Advocates and Legal Counsel
Prof. Marek Wierzbowski and Partners Advocates and Legal Counsel is adept at advising major Polish companies on day-to-day corporate matters, in addition to handling commercial mandates and large transactions. The practice’s client roster includes buyers and sellers, and the restructuring of state-owned companies is another core area of strength for the group. Marek Wierzbowski spearheads the team with ‘unique, in-depth knowledge and great experience in commercial, corporate and M&A law’.
Practice head(s):
Marek Wierzbowski
Other key lawyers:
Sławomir Jakszuk; Mariusz Rypina; Stanisław Radowicki; Klaudia Bezezińska-Jaromin
Testimonials
‘Professionalism and factual approach of the team.’
‘Excellent knowledge of the industry and the subject, and good involvement in the project.’
‘Complexity of services at their highest level, comprehensive experience, professionalism and engagement. Great and deep knowledge of commercial, corporate and M&A, availability and quick response to our demands and questions, always detailed explanations of legal issues.’
‘Marek Wierzbowski has unique, in-depth knowledge and great experience in commercial, corporate and M&A law. He is a real expert.’
‘Sławomir Jakszuk has deep knowledge and great experience in commercial, corporate and M&A law. He has excellent knowledge not only of legal regulations but also of practices, as well as good contact with the client and strong interpersonal skills. He is fast working, professional, committed and effective.’
Key clients
PKP PLK S.A.
PGNiG S.A.
John Cockerill Defence Poland Sp. Z o.o.
Nordcap.pl Sp. z o.o.
MAXI PIZZA S.A.
STALEXPORT AUTOSTRADY S.A.
Orlen S.A.
Boryszew S.A.
Żegluga Polska S.A.
PFRN Fundusz Sektora Mieszkań dla Rozwoju FIZ AN
Betfan
Akademia Śląska
Uczelnia Lingwistyczno-Techniczna
ITCraftship
Uniwersytet Gdanski
Krakowska Akademia im. Andrzeja Fryczza Modrzewskiego
Nasz Lekarz Przychodnie Medyczne
PIT – RADWAR S.A.
Dino Polska S.A.
Trakcja S.A.
Grupa Kęty S.A.
Gaz-System S.A.
Lubelska Szkoła Wyższa w Rykach
STS S.A.
Grupa Azoty S.A.
Grupa Azoty Zakłady Azotowe „Puławy” S.A.
Work highlights
- Adivsed PKP PLK S.A. on the purchase of the shares and bonds of a listed company.
- Advised PIT-RADWAR S.A. on the acquisition of a company which produces communication systems.
- Advising Nordcap.pl Sp. z o.o. on ongoing corporate matters.
RKKW – Kwasnicki, Wrobel & Partners
RKKW – Kwasnicki, Wrobel & Partners‘ ‘lawyers have a great deal of theoretical and practical knowledge’, and they provide domestic and international clients with advice on shareholder agreements, M&A transactions on both the buy and sell side, and investment mandates. Founding partners Radosław Kwaśnicki and Krzysztof Wróbel are key senior members of the team, in addition to managing partner Jarosław Szewczyk.
Practice head(s):
Jarosław Szewczyk; Krzysztof Wróbel
Other key lawyers:
Jarosław Szewczyk; Karol Szymański; Radosław Kwaśnicki; Piotr Letolc; Marcin Jasiński
Testimonials
‘The team is one of the best in Poland with their ability to always look at the best solutions, taking into consideration market realities.’
‘Jarosław Szewczyk was very quick in understanding the client’s business needs and adapting to the new shape of the project. Good clarification skills in the phase of negotiations.’
‘The team was very professional. They provide all possible scenarios with proper risk assessment.’
Key clients
Polski Fundusz Rozwoju S.A.
Polskie Koleje Linowe S.A.
Centralny Port Komunikacyjny sp. z o.o.
Giełda Papierów Wartościowych w Warszawie S.A.
Orlen S.A.
Energa S.A.
Grupa Oryx sp. z o.o.
Benefit Systems International S.A.
Benefit Systems S.A.
Sygnity S.A.
Murapol S.A.
Powszechny Zakład Ubezpieczeń S.A.
Mago S.A.
Omikron Capital sp. z o.o.
Menlo Electric S.A.
EleDriveCo sp. z o.o.
Bank Polska Kasa Opieki S.A.
Pentacomp Systemy Informatyczne S.A.
Drutex S.A.
Harvent Capital sp. z o.o.
Atest
Harvent Capital sp. z o.o.
Omikron Capital sp. z o.o.
ASM Group S.A.
Drutex S.A.
Genuin sp. z o.o.
Work highlights
- Advised Centralny Port Komunikacyjny sp. z o.o. on negotiations with Towarzystwo Finansowe „SILESIA” sp. z o.o. concerning the acquisition of a controlling stake of 38% in the listed company Torpol S.A.
- Advised Atende S.A., a major IT capital group in Poland, on negotiating the terms of its equity investment in Cryptomage S.A., based in Wrocław.
- Assisted Lafarge Cement S.A. with negotiations with HM Invest S.A. and Bartosz Dąbrowski concerning the acquisition of all the shares in HM Factory sp. z o.o.
B2R Law Jankowski Stroinski Zieba
B2R Law Jankowski Stroinski Zieba‘s corporate and M&A team is well versed in handling a range of transactions, including venture capital, private equity, and public-listed M&A mandates, which often involve cross-border elements. The firm is also skilled in advising clients on entering the Polish market. Rafał Stroiński spearheads the practice.
Practice head(s):
Rafał Stroiński
Other key lawyers:
Agnieszka Hajos–Iwańska
Testimonials
‘Very knowledgeable team.’
‘Rafał Stroiński has enormous experience in negotiations and difficult and complicated deals. Available 24/7 which is quite unique.’
‘Good knowledge.’
Key clients
DocPlanner
Auxilius Pharma
Dentametr
B+N Referencia Zrt.
Saas Labs US Inc.
The Village Network Sp. z o.o.
Business Angels
Kennet Partners and Digital+ Partners
Paine Schwartz Partners
Ambulero Inc
Meta Ventures
Gabi
Retail Robotics
Acquinex
Work highlights
- Advised the minority shareholders of Audioteka S.A., representing approximately 40% of the company’s share capital, on the sale of shares to Wirtualna Polska Holding S.A., a company listed on the main market of the Warsaw Stock Exchange.
- Advised Vinci S.A. on the investment of the HiTech ASI fund managed by the client into OASIS Diagnostics S.A. for nearly PLN14m.
- Advised Polish unicorn DocPlanner on its acquisition of MyDr.
CK LEGAL Chabasiewicz Kowalska i Wspólnicy
CK LEGAL Chabasiewicz Kowalska i Wspólnicy‘s practice combines ‘international competences’ with ‘great M&A expertise’; the group focuses on corporate law, M&A transactions, and international reorganisations, and it is especially skilled at advising start-ups, as well as private equity and venture capital funds. Founding partner Agata Kowalska and managing partners Magdalena Golonka and Antoni Liśkiewicz are the key senior members of the practice.
Practice head(s):
Agata Kowalska; Magdalena Golonka; Antoni Liśkiewicz
Other key lawyers:
Wojciech Chabasiewicz; Edyta Bębenek
Testimonials
‘The team’s strength is the understanding of business needs and being open to searching for solutions outside of the box. Members of the team have differentiated and broad competencies that allow them to address a wide spectrum of cases. As their client, I have an impression that the team works in a supportive environment which results in cooperation with the same employees throughout the years.’
‘I would like to mention Agata Kowalska and Antoni Liśkiewicz as the individuals that stand out. Their competencies, understanding of business needs and knowledge are especially broad. While working with them, I have a feeling that my case is in the right hands.’
‘Chabasiewicz, Kowalska I Partnerzy Radcowie Prawni’s team consist of multidisciplinary experts. They can easily solve complex problems. They are very accessible and agile. They have an international approach and understand the business.’
Key clients
Exact Systems sp. z o.o.
Genesis Capital Equity
Wimba Poland sp. z o.o.
Secfense sp. z o.o.
Strix Poland sp. z o.o.
Codete Global sp. z o.o.
BV sp. z o.o.
Ryvu Therapeutics S.A.
Exfluency GmbH
HCM Deck sp. z o.o.
Summa Linguae Technologies S.A.
Work highlights
- Assisted private equity firm Genesis Capital Equity with the agreement to buy Poland’s XBS Group.
- Advised Polish company Ryvu Therapeutics on the cooperation agreement and investment agreement with German company BioNTech, at a value of €876m.
- Assisted investment fund Deutsche Telekom hubraum with an investment agreement into start-up company inStreamly.
Grant Thornton Legal Maślanko Kancelaria Prawna Spółka komandytowa
Grant Thornton Legal Maślanko Kancelaria Prawna Spółka komandytowa boasts a team of legal practitioners, tax advisors, certified auditors, and business consultants. Its offering encompasses assistance with the sale and purchase of shares, stocks, enterprises, and real estate assets, and the team is also skilled in the creation of joint ventures. Key senior practitioners include Karol Guździoł in Warsaw, and Maja Jabłońska, Magdalena Frukacz and Justyna Nykiel in Poznań.
Practice head(s):
Karol Guździoł; Maja Jabłońska; Magdalena Frukacz; Justyna Nykiel
Other key lawyers:
Karolina Idziak; Adrianna Roloff; Michał Zaborowski; Karolina Kulińska-Polak
Testimonials
‘They were able to fully understand our commercial goals – I appreciate that they have a business-minded approach. All of the work was performed on time. We felt like we did not have to worry for a single thing during our cooperation as the advisors had every detail of our process under control.’
‘Karolina Idziak provided the solutions very quickly. She was always very accessible and if something had to be done the same day, she simply did it. Personally, I think the most important quality that makes her stand out is her communication skills.’
‘Extensive experience and a comprehensive approach. The team also stands out for its high commitment and appropriate approach to a given industry.’
Key clients
Holding 1 Spółka akcyjna Sp.k.
IK Sp. z o.o.
Ltimindtree Ltd.
Edding International GmbH
Eltel Networks Poland S.A.
Eltel Networks Energetyka S.A.
Work highlights
- Advised Holding 1 Spółka akcyjna Sp.k. on the acquisition of 100% of the shares in the share capital of Renault Retail Group Sp. z o.o.
- Advised IK Sp. z o.o. on the sale of 100% of the shares in the share capital of Interkadra Sp. z o.o. and Grupa IK Sp. z o.o. to Synergie International Employment Solutions SL.
LSW Bieńkowski, Laskowski, Leśnodorski, Melzacki and Partners sp.k.
LSW Bieńkowski, Laskowski, Leśnodorski, Melzacki and Partners sp.k. is frequently instructed by a variety of funds, including private equity, venture capital, investment, infrastructure, and sovereign wealth funds. Venture capital expert Krzysztof Laskowski oversees the department, which has undergone recent expansion, with Piotr Szelenbaum joining the team in May 2023 from B2R Law Jankowski Stroinski Zieba, followed by Aleksandra Polak and Piotr Leonarski in June 2023.
Practice head(s):
Krzysztof Laskowski
Other key lawyers:
Piotr Szelenbaum; Michał Klimowicz; Jerzy Łopatyński; Aleksandra Polak; Joanna Markowicz-Maciocha; Piotr Leonarski
Testimonials
‘One of Poland’s pre-eminent legal experts in corporate, capital markets and M&A, with a particular focus on transactions. They have advised on some of the largest and most recognised transactions involving Poland.’
‘Outstanding performance and out-of-the box legal solutions, always available to help.’
‘Very responsive and competent practitioners who were very nice and cooperative to work with.’
Key clients
Warner Music Poland
Gemini Polska
Founders Of Loando Companies
Purella, Michał Czerwiński
Talkin Things
4growth VC
4est
Apk Production
Endorfina Events
Montis Capital
Instytut Monitorowania Mediów Spółka Akcyjna
Johnson Matthey Plc
EG A/S
Keyloop
Francisco Partners
DocPlanner
Westcoast
Semihalf
NOVONIX Limited
Brookfield Infrastructure
Equiem Holdings Pty Ltd
CI Games
Arteria SA
Work highlights
- Advised global infrastructure fund Brookfield Infrastructure on the acquisition of European data centre operator Data4 which encompasses four data centre projects in Poland.
- Advised Purella on its merger with Bakalland.
Olesinski & Wspolnicy
Olesinski & Wspolnicy‘s corporate expertise spans share and asset deal transactions and mergers and demergers, as well as transformations, business structurings, joint ventures, and incentives programmes. Founder and managing partner Rafał Olesiński has a strong tax background and splits his time between the firm’s Warsaw and Wrocław offices; Olesiński jointly leads the team alongside capital markets chair Michał Bogacz and head of the corporate group Magdalena Tyrakowska-Szymczak, both of whom are based in Wrocław.
Practice head(s):
Rafał Olesiński; Michał Bogacz; Magdalena Tyrakowska-Szymczak
Other key lawyers:
Samanta Osowska; Małgorzata Łamek-Bogacz; Magdalena Kordas
Testimonials
‘The Olesinski i Wspolnicy team is distinguished by the fact that it usually tries to propose several options for solving a given issue, helps to analyse the problems and possible scenarios, so that a good choice can be made on how to proceed. The team takes into account a broader perspective, taking into account the provisions of various fields of law.’
‘Excellent understanding of client needs, which is used to provide tailored services. Focus on long-term customer success and not short-term financial gains for them. Broad profile with lots of Poland-specific experience so they are able to cover all of our needs.’
‘Olesinski i Wspolnicy’s team possess deep knowledge and expertise in commercial law and corporate law. This includes staying up-to-date with changes in legislation, case law, and legal trends. Diverse experience, including both junior associates and seasoned partners, can provide a wide range of perspectives and solutions to clients’ legal issues. Very effective communication, both written and verbal.’
‘Magdalena Kordas provides crucial support in solving more complex issues thanks to her vast experience.’
‘Comprehensive, wide approach but detail oriented, proactive and fast responsiveness with excellent knowledge of industry standards and best practice. High level of tax effects.’
‘OW provides a reliable service, even at short deadlines, from a very broad field of expertise encompassing practically all the company’s needs.’
‘Quality of service, approachability, and English acumen make OW a highly valuable partner.’
‘Olesinski i Wspolnicy is a multi-disciplinary law firm, offering lawyers availability in various legal matters. From a client perspective, there seems to be seamless cooperation between various disciplines.’
Key clients
Archicom S.A.
ATM Grupa S.A.
Booksy International sp. z o.o.
bValue Bridge sp. z o.o. ASI sp.k.
CCC S.A.
DataWalk S.A.
DEVELIA S.A.
Modivo S.A.
Gigaset Communications sp. z o.o.
Horex.pl sp. z o.o.
iFirma S.A.
Impel S.A.
Innoenergy Central Europe sp. z o.o.
IZOBLOK S.A.
Kolej Gondolowa Jaworzyna Krynicka S.A.
Libet S.A.
Lokum Deweloper S.A.
Lubawa S.A.
Mechanistry sp. z o.o.
MKK3 sp. z o.o.
Picadilla Games Adziński, Porzucek, Czerenkiewicz spółka komandytowa
Polskie Koleje Linowe S.A.
Selena FM S.A.
Selena S.A.
Silver Hexarion Holdings Limited
Syrius Investments S.a.r.l.
Tarczyński S.A.
Ten Square Games S.A.
The Heart S.A.
Vive Textile Recycling
XTPL S.A.
Zago Capital I sp. z o.o.
ZREW Transformatory S.A.
Stileo sp. z o.o.
Libertist Yachts sp. z o.o
Silekol sp. z o.o.
GEA Tuchenhagen Polska sp. z o.o.
Alides Polska sp. z o.o.
Stocznia Cesarska Management sp. z o.o.
Stocznia Cesarska Development sp. z o.o.
Gdansk Development Holding
Smulders Group NV
Smulders Projects Poland spółka z ograniczoną odpowiedzialnością
Teleste Oyj
Exlabesa Extrusion Opole sp. z o.o.
INTERSPORT Polska S.A.
VOSS Automotive Polska sp. z o.o.
Publishers Revenue Optimization sp. z o.o.
Stölzle Lausitz GmbH
optAd360 sp. z o.o.
Projektmanagement sp. z o.o.
Umicore NV
Umicore AG & Co. KG
Umicore Autocat Poland sp. z o.o.
PayEye Sp. z o.o.
STAKO sp. z o.o.
Stokado sp. z o.o.
SFC Solutions Częstochowa sp. z o.o.
Tasomix sp. z o.o.
Work highlights
- Advised Tasomix, part of the ForFarmers Group, on the acquisition of the feed business of Piast Pasze Group, which specialises in the production of livestock feed.
- Advised Stokado on a recapitalisation of the company and the entry of a private investor into the company at the level of 51%, executed in three phases of financing.
- Advised Umicore Poland on the increase of its share capital, which is part of the financing of new local investments by a company’s Belgian shareholder.
Sadkowski I Wspólnicy
Sadkowski I Wspólnicy‘s practice has a strong focus on commercial and company law, and frequently undertakes domestic and cross-border M&A transactions, divisions, and transformations. The team is also active in assisting clients with corporate governance and day-to-day advisory matters. Mariusz Kowolik boasts M&A and restructuring expertise, and managing associate Rafał Małolepszy focuses on commercial law mandates.
Practice head(s):
Mariusz Kowolik; Rafał Małolepszy
Other key lawyers:
Patrycja Wieczorek
Testimonials
‘When the law firm undertakes to conduct a given case, it immediately starts working, without delay. The topic under consideration is each time subjected to a very thorough analysis, and specialists from other teams of the Sadkowski i Wspólnicy firm are included in the analysis of the topic, if necessary, to consider every aspect.’
‘Specialists from various teams of Sadkowski i Wspolnicy cooperate and communicate very well, which makes their cooperation very effective. Joint discussions with specialists from other teams even have the character of a brainstorming session.’
‘The activities of the law firm’s team members are aimed at actually acting in the best possible way for the good of the client. The organisation of activities of the team and the office is impeccable and even perfect. The helpfulness of people from the team and the entire Sadkowski i Wspolnicy firm is exceptional.’
Key clients
Unimot S.A.
SOLVACHEM Sp. z o.o.
UNIMOT Energia i Gaz Sp. z o.o.
Mercur Group sp. z o.o.
Collegium Humanum
DES Sofa Line Sp. z o.o.
Direct Group Sp. z o.o.
CMB Sp. z o.o.
ELKOM-GAZ Z. Sobieralski sp. k.
IPAK sp. z o.o.
Valueimpex sp. z o.o.
ULISSES Sp. z o.o. S.K.A.
Stoelzle Częstochowa sp. z o.o.
Emerson Group
TUR-TRANS-GAPSA sp. z o.o.
AMP Polska Sp. z o.o.
Work highlights
- Advising Unimot S.A. on the transfer of an organised part of the company’s enterprise to its subsidiary, which is a limited liability company.
- Advising Unimot Group on the acquisition of a majority stake in a company operating in the energy resources field.
- Advising Unimot Group on the acquisition of 90% of the shares in Olavion.
Squire Patton Boggs Krześniak sp.k.
Squire Patton Boggs Krześniak sp.k.‘s Polish team forms part of a global M&A and corporate offering, and the team frequently advises clients on domestic and cross-border M&A transactions, encompassing both public and private mandates. Marcin Wnukowski spearheads the practice with notable experience in the life sciences and pharmaceutical sectors.
Practice head(s):
Marcin Wnukowski
Other key lawyers:
Paweł Magierowski; Patrycja Pacholczak
Testimonials
‘Very fast and professional reaction to our requests. The rules of collaboration are very clear and transparent in all aspects.’
‘Marcin Wnukowski, who is serving us very well, understands our business needs. Collaboration with him is always on the top-quality level. Very fast reaction to our requests with clear explanation of different alternatives. We are treated as a special and important client.’
‘Very knowledgeable, very practical approach, easy to understand communication in particular among commercial teams, and good timing and sense of urgency.’
Key clients
Ligentia
Bausch Health Companies
Kongsberg Automotive
Acciona Energy
Coinfirm
OEC Group
MPF Foundation
Bimba y Lola
Valvoline
Work highlights
- Advised Ligentia, a UK-based freight forwarding and logistics provider, on the acquisition of a 100% stake in Ligentia Poland, a Polish freight forwarding and logistics services provider, and its subsidiaries.
- Advising Coinfirm, a major player in blockchain analytics and regtech for digital currencies and blockchain-based financial ecosystems, on establishing and expanding its presence and business activities in Poland.
- Advising ACCIONA Energy, a Spanish company developing renewable energy projects, on acquiring a portfolio of four wind farm projects located in Poland from its developer.