EU and competition

Cerha Hempel

Bringing to bear a ‘profound comprehension of Austrian and EU competition law,’ Cerha Hempel is often instructed on mergers and cartel cases spanning multiple European jurisdictions, assisting on merger control proceedings, and providing advice on FDI regulations and subsidy screenings. The firm acts for clients bringing private enforcement claims for damages as a result of cartel operations and is also noted for its state aid practice. Practice head Bernhard Kofler-Senoner frequently appears before EU bodies on both cartel matters and merger proceedings, including Phase II hearings. Anna Wolf-Posch offers extensive experience in merger control and FDI notifications, which she coordinates in Austria and across the CEE region, while Hans Kristoferitsch is noted for his knowledge of state aid regulations, representing clients in such matters before the ECJ.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

'They take the time not only to deal with the specific legal problems, but also to understand the background and working methods as well as the corporate culture of the clients'
'The team is very responsive and provides comprehensive advice that is targeted to our business needs.'
'Bernhard Kofler-Senoner is very approachable and is able to blend the legal needs and commercial imperatives of clients seamlessly.'
'Their dedication, expertise, and the unique qualities they bring to the table have made a significant impact on our success. They consistently go above and beyond to deliver outstanding results.'
'Bernhard Kofler-Senoner, Stefan Huber and Michael Mayer deserve special recognition. Their experience and knowledge of our industry have been instrumental in achieving our goals. They are not only subject-matter experts but also effective leaders who inspire and motivate the team to excel.'
'I have had the privilege of working with an exceptional team of individuals, and what sets them apart from competitors is truly remarkable. Their dedication, expertise, and the unique qualities they bring to the table have had a significant impact on our success.'
'Anna Wolf-Posch is experienced, friendly and great to work with.'
'Their profound comprehension of Austrian and EU competition law ensures that we receive multifaceted support. They advise on vital competition law matters and ensure strict adherence to the UTP Directive, along with Austrian and EU whistleblowing norms.'

Key clients

STRABAG SE
SUNPOR KUNSTSTOFF GmbH/O N Sunde AS
RHI Magnesita N.V.
Novomatic AG
Doppelmayr Seilbahnen GmbH
Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited
PIERER Mobility AG/KTM AG
Pittel + Brausewetter Gesellschaft m.b.H.
SPAR HOLDING AG and the City of Vienna
Omnes Capital S.A.S.
Republic of Austria

Work highlights

Advised SUNPOR KUNSTSTOFF GmbH and its parent company O N Sunde AS in EU Commission cartel infringement proceedings concerning styrene monomer.
Acted for RHI Magnesita N.V. on its acquisition of certain subsidiaries of Seven Refractories, securing Phase I merger control approval in Austria.
Advised PIERER Mobility AG on its acquisition of the Vöcklabrucker Metallgießerei Dambauer GmbH, including merger control filings in Austria.