Commercial, corporate and M&A

Houthoff

The practice at Houthoff ‘brings a global experience to M&A transactions’ and handles the gamut of corporate and private equity work for its noteworthy portfolio of clients. Bram Caudri helms the group and has particular proficiencies representing strategic parties and private equity investors in cross-border transactions. Michiel Pannekoek leads across many of the team’s most pre-eminent cases, harnessing experience in business as well as private equity transactions. Handling large-scale transactions for publicly listed companies is an area of focus of Alexander Kaarls, while Philip van der Eijk can handle carve-out matters of considerable value. Margriet Kros departed in December 2023.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘The team of Houthoff has been a valuable M&A partner in several acquisitions, divestments and refinancing exercises. They are fast, have a good overview of all the different interests and provide excellent work.’
‘We've especially worked with Bram Caudri and Djotika Bissesseur. They stand out as they have full knowledge of all different interests involved, also when complexity is high due to simultaneous projects going on. They are able to discuss complex situations in a clear manner, while working diligently when it comes to the details.'
‘While a Netherlands-based firm, Houthoff brings a global experience to M&A transactions for ECI, with staff having done deals around the world. This experience allows Houthoff to provide legal advice to US companies with broader implications and needs.’
‘Alexander Kaarls is a pragmatic and savvy advisor and negotiator, knowing where to "dig in" and where to "move on" to help us get deals done. He also has experience working for a US firm previously, which is a major asset. Also, Josephine de Bok on his team is an excellent fast-rising lawyer with a similar skill set and a trusted advisor.’
‘Philip van der Eijk is a very hands-on M&A lawyer that is likeable, flexible and listens to his clients. Would highly recommend him.’
‘Houthoff has a solid M&A practice. The firm covers all aspects effectively and in a hands-on, no-nonsense manner.’
‘Bram Caudri runs a team that one enjoys working with. Hands-on, no-nonsense attitude that puts emphasis on that what matters. Josephine de Bok is the one to watch.’
'Bram Caudri is my go-to contact: consistently on top of things, pleasant and confident personality, always available, good contact with the client. He and his team are a safe pair of hands for all matters.'

Key clients

Sopra Steria Group
ORTEC International
Waterland Private Equity
CrestviewPartners
Atlas Holdings
Torqx Capital Partners
H2 Equity Partners
Bridgepoint
Meltwater
Ardonagh Europe
Söderberg & Partners
AddSecure
Sasol & Topsoe
SPS International
ECI Software Solutions
Argos Wityu
Baosso Global
IK Investment Partners
Exact Software Group
Norsk Hydro ASA
Lumileds
Castik
CSC Global

Work highlights

Advised SPS Commerce on its €68m takeover of the business of AEX-listed TIE Kinetix N.V.
Advised the client on its transition to a new ownership structure, with the sale of Fortenova Group MidCo B.V. to Iter BidCo B.V.
Advised in the sale of a synthetic turf business to affiliates of Leonard Green & Partners (LGP).