Commercial, corporate and M&A

Niederer Kraft Frey AG

Noted for its ‘meticulous attention to detail, comprehensive industry knowledge, and proactive approach to legal strategy’, Niederer Kraft Frey AG is highly regarded for its cross-border capabilities and is particularly active in the sectors of pharmaceuticals, technology, and education, regularly being engaged to handle a diverse range of corporate and commercial matters. Three key players lead the firm’s offering: Patrik Peyer, who is well-positioned to advise clients on private equity M&A transactions and corporate law mandates, Philippe Weber, who represents a panoply of clients in relation to cross-border M&A and capital markets transactions, and Karim Piguet, a technology expert who is highly capable in the private equity and venture capital sphere. Philipp Haas boasts a varied practice that spans the sectors of pharmaceuticals, technology, and logistics, while Thomas Brönnimann is a strong choice for strategic and financial buyers and sellers operating in this space. Philip Spoerlé’s capabilities encompass leveraged acquisition financings and public and private M&A, as well as capital markets transactions, and Moritz Maurer is also recommended.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

'One of the most complete and qualified firms in the Swiss market in the areas of M&A (public and private), capital markets and financing.’
‘Philippe Weber is the trusted advisor of many boards and CEOs of listed companies. One of the smartest and most experienced transaction lawyers in the Swiss market. Incredibly versatile with top-notch expertise in M&A, capital markets and financing. Very well connected in the market.'
'Patrik Peyer is one of the leading M&A lawyers with a particular strong track record in private M&A transactions and highly regarded by the PE community. Highly efficient, structured and responsive with excellent deal making skills and a strong team-player and leader. Very well connected in the market.'
‘Meticulous attention to detail. Remarkable ability to anticipate and mitigate potential risks. Negotiation skills and deep understanding of market dynamic. Diversity in the team.’
‘Stand-out Moritz Maurer is my go-to person in Switzerland for M&A. Moritz is proactive and responsive, provides tailored solutions and gives insightful advice, also thinking outside of the box.'
‘What makes the NKF legal team unique is their unparalleled combination of swift response times, high-quality legal support, and personalised advice. Their strengths lie in their meticulous attention to detail, comprehensive industry knowledge, and proactive approach to legal strategy.'
'NKF stands out for its dedication to building strong, collaborative relationships with clients. They are not just legal advisors but true partners in the negotiation process, which is a testament to their commitment to client success.'
'The practice's commitment to diversity is evident in their team composition, which brings a wide range of perspectives and expertise to the table. This diversity not only enriches the practice but also ensures that clients receive well-rounded and inclusive legal solutions.'

Key clients

Vodafone Group PLC
R&S Group
Swiss Steel Group
GSK
GIC
Walgreens Alliance Boots
Microsoft
Gategroup
Nicolas Gonet and Gonet & Cie SA
Partners Group
KKR
EMZ Partners
Evolva Holding SA
MVM Partners
Axpo Group
Demathieu Bard
Rayner Group
Macquarie
Invision
Vantage Education AG
Minka SGS AG
Bain Capital
Stelux Group
Ardian
Nordic Capital
EOS Partners
CKW
abrantix AG
Climate Impulse (Bertrand Piccard)

Work highlights

Acted as Swiss legal advisor to Vodafone Group Plc in the entry into of a binding agreement to sell Vodafone Italy to Swiss listed Swisscom for an enterprise value of EUR8bn.
Acted as Swiss law advisor to US private equity house Silver Lake in its $6.4bn equity investment in Vantage Data Centers.
Advised Clariant AG on its acquisition of Lucas Meyer Cosmetics from International Flavors & Fragrances Inc.