Firms To Watch: EU and competition

Stefan Botezatu heads up the practice at act legal Romania (BOTEZATU ESTRADE & ASOCIATII S.P.A.R.L.), which has established strength in advising on energy-related competition matters.
Founded in December 2022, GG Law Office fields a competition team led by founding partner Georgeta Gavriloiu, who has extensive experience in the practice area.

EU and competition in Romania

D&B David si Baias

D&B David si Baias remains one of the go-to practices in Romania for assistance with high-end antitrust investigations and litigation. The team is also frequently seen in the market’s foremost merger control matters, as well as state aid issues. Practice head Sorin David , a specialist in competition, commercial and consumer protection law, has an excellent reputation in the market. His team includes Lucian Bozian, who ‘stands out for his deep expertise, dedication and collaborative spirit’; and manager of the state aid practice Sonia Voinescu.

Praxisleiter:

Sorin David


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Lucian Bozian; Sonia Voinescu


Referenzen

‘When describing the uniqueness of David & Baias, it’s important to highlight what makes this law firm stand out in terms of expertise, team strengths, client relationships and any innovative approaches they’ve introduced to their practice.’

‘David & Baias stands out by combining specialized legal expertise with innovative practices such as transparent billing, cutting-edge technology and a strong commitment to diversity and collaboration. These strengths position them well compared to larger, more traditional firms, making them a compelling option for clients seeking personalised, high-quality legal services.’

‘David & Baias stand out for their client-centric approach, innovative solutions, and attention to detail. Unlike competitors, they prioritise understanding client needs and delivering tailored, creative strategies that consistently exceed expectations. Their versatility across design, marketing, and technical services, paired with strong, long-lasting partnerships, ensures exceptional quality and results. This blend of expertise, collaboration, and a forward-thinking mindset sets them apart in the industry.’

Kernmandanten

Dnata Catering


Fildas-Catena Group


City Grill Group


OMV Petrom


AER


Altex Group


Leroy Merlin Romania


Carrefour Romania


Lidl Romania


TAROM


Hirschmann Automotive TM; Bosch Automotive; Rombat; and Kronospan Trading.


Municipality of Oradea and Bihor County Council


EnergoBit


Highlight-Mandate


Filip & Company

‘An exceptionally good practice’, Filip & Company‘s offering for EU and competition law is one of the staples of the market for major investigations by the Romanian authority, and is regularly sought out by major domestic and multinational companies on day-to-day competition compliance matters. Merger control filings for large-scale M&A deals are also a major component of its workload. Cătălin Suliman leads the team and is one of the foremost experts in competition law within the telecoms sector. Silviu Vasile‘s ‘superior research skills’ are a further boon for clients, and at a more junior level, Roxana Rosca and Ruxandra Tenea are further contacts to note.

Praxisleiter:

Catalin Suliman


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Silviu Vasile; Roxana Rosca; Ruxandra Tenea


Referenzen

‘Unique approach towards understanding and addressing client’s needs, high level of knowledge, adapted and customised advice and solution, always readily available, actively supporting to client’s decision making process. In a nutshell – I sleep at ease at night knowing that I have them on my side and they always help us take the right and correct decisions!’

‘Catalin Suliman – the best commercial and competition lawyer.’

‘The team is exceptionally skilled with great understanding on the market trends and adapting their advice but also delivering valuable trainings for prevention.’

Kernmandanten

Banca Comercială Română S.A.


Edenred Romania


VIG Group (Omniasig, Asirom)


RCS & RDS


CIT One S.A.


Autonom Services SA (formerly BT Operational Leasing SA)


Zentiva (part of Sanofi Aventis Group)


Dante International (eMAG)


Tiriac Leasing


Banca Transilvania


Strauss Romania


One United Properties


Medicover


Dataware Consulting


Highlight-Mandate


GNP Guia Naghi & Partners

GNP Guia Naghi & Partners's EU and competition law offering spans market inquiries, compliance measures, and regulatory frameworks. Clients appreciate the team’s ‘attention to detail, high standards and proactivity’ and it is one of the go-to practices for Romanian Competition Council (RCC) investigations and sector inquiries. Its full service in this field includes significant merger control work. The ‘strategic vision’ of practice co-head Manuela Guia helps her client base of multinationals and leading Romanian businesses in high profile investigations. Fellow practice head Otilia Vilcu is the standout contact at the firm for state aid work. Patricia Avramescu stands out from the group of more junior lawyers that support the practice heads.

Praxisleiter:

Manuela Guia; Otilia Vîlcu


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Patricia Avramescu; Andreea Ivăniș; Tudor Pasat


Referenzen

‘We have collaborated with GNP in competition matters and we could see from the onset their attention to detail, high standards and proactivity in dealing with my company. Their expertise is among the best on the local market and we benefitted from it throughout the trainings they provided. They were open to tailor the information to the niche domain of banking and they performed an excellent job in providing us with insider perspectives and practical, real-world examples that resonated with our team. Their clear and engaging presentation style and the interactive approach made the training informative and accessible.’

‘The GNP team we interacted with is composed by Manuela Guia, Otilia Vilcu and Patricia Avramescu. Manuela, Otilia and Patricia’s expertise in competition law was evident throughout the sessions, as they effortlessly broke down complex legal concepts into practical, actionable insights. From one session to the other, they were open to feedback and willing to further tailor the presentation. Otilia’s clear delivery kept the entire team captivated and the multiple relevant examples she inserted throughout the material made it highly relevant. I am confident that the knowledge gained will enhance our compliance efforts.’

‘This practice stands out due to its holistic approach to client service, combining deep industry expertise with innovative solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs. The team is known for its collaborative culture, which fosters a seamless integration of diverse skills and perspectives, ensuring comprehensive and effective solutions. Compared to other firms, this practice excels in customisation: While many firms offer standard solutions, this practice tailors its services to meet the specific needs of each client.’

Kernmandanten

Mega Image S.R.L.


Cis Gaz S.A.


Toyota Romania S.R.L.


Inchcape Motors S.R.L.


Danone Productie si Distributie de Produse Alimentare S.R.L.


Tinmar Energy S.A.


Agricola International S.A.


HCL Online Advertising S.R.L. (Tazz by Emag)


Energy Financing Team AG


Stryker Romania S.R.L.


Trust Brokers – Broker de Asigurare S.R.L.


BRD – Groupe Societe Generale S.A


Coaliția pentru Economia Digitală


Patronage of Physical and Electronic Archiving Enterprises in Romania


Roche Romania S.R.L.


Novartis Pharma Services Romania S.R.L.


Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & CO KG Viena Sucursala Bucuresti


UCB Pharma Romania S.R.L.


Super Eggs S.R.L.


Toneli Holding S.A.


Soundmasters S.R.L.


Vel Pitar S.A.


Macromex S.R.L.


Mini Farm S.R.L.


Zimrom Shipping S.R.L.


Ia Bilet S.R.L. (online platform owned by NCH Capital)


Nepi Investment Management S.R.L


OLX Online Services S.R.L.


Eurohold Bulgaria A.D.


Highlight-Mandate


  • Assisting Mega Image S.R.L. – Ahold Delhaize Group with the potential acquisition of Profi.
  • Advised Super Eggs S.R.L. on the Romanian Competition Council’s investigation on the eggs market in Romania.
  • Assisted Agricola International Bacau S.A. with the commitments procedure before the Romanian Competition Council concerning the investigation into the poultry meat production market.

Nestor Nestor Diculescu Kingston Petersen

Nestor Nestor Diculescu Kingston Petersen has extensive experience advising companies that operate across sectors being increasingly scrutinised by the RCC and authorities internationally. The team is routinely involved in investigations, as well as the full range of M&A-related competition matters. Practice head Anca Diaconu has ‘in-depth knowledge in the realm of competition law’ and her recent work has included a large share of complex matters in the clean energy space. The ‘organised and very thorough’ Oana Popescu-Mitricoaia is a further key figure, and both Elena Aldescu and Rares Farcas support on the range of matters.

Praxisleiter:

Anca Diaconu


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Oana Popescu-Mitricoaia; Elena Aldescu; Rares Farcas


Referenzen

‘A valuable team, always updated and with solutions in favor of the client.’

‘They offered the best solution; they are honest and provide tailored solutions.’

‘NNDKP’s competition team is currently assisting us in challenging a sanctioning decision of the competition authority and provides day-to-day advice. The team is very knowledgeable and very experienced in providing high-quality competition law advice. They are truly committed to offering the highest level of service, which is reflected in their openness to answer all our questions to help us see the full implications and make the best decisions. The legal support provided by the team has been excellent and is very much appreciated.’

Kernmandanten

PepsiCo


Kedrion SpA


DKV Mobility Services


Guala


Renania Trade


The Romanian Brewers Association


Auchan


Selgros


Grupo Bimbo


Globalworth


Highlight-Mandate


  • Assisted The Romanian Brewers Association with the EU and competition aspects of the implementation of the deposit-return system for primary non-reusable packaging in Romania.
  • Represented Kedrion SpA in the challenge in court of the competition authority’s sanctioning decision concerning certain companies on the immunoglobulin market.
  • Assisted Guala Closures with obtaining merger clearance for the acquisition of sole control over Astir Vitogiannis Bros.

RTPR | Radu Taracila Padurari Retevoescu SCA

Regarded by clients as ‘a market trailblazer’, RTPR | Radu Taracila Padurari Retevoescu SCA‘s team for EU and competition law handles the full range of matters, including major antitrust investigations, merger approvals, dawn raids and compliance programs. Companies and financial institutions both international and domestic instruct the group that is jointly led by Valentin Berea and Roxana Ionescu. Berea, a top competition law specialist, excels in investigations and disputes, and Ionescu is the coordinator of the merger control and state aid teams. Andrada Rusan is ‘extremely thorough in her work’ and assists both with investigations and advisory matters.

Praxisleiter:

Valentin Berea; Roxana Ionescu


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Andrada Rusan; Serban Halmagean; Miruna Tocileanu


Referenzen

‘The RTPR competition team is definitely a market trailblazer, as they have the skill and expertise to take on mandates on both day-to-day advice as well as investigations from the initial dawn-raid days all the way to a final ruling in court litigation. This gives a client the confidence of working with a team having in-depth command of all the details of a case, as they both understand the business of the client and the stakes of a given decision, being able to then decide the optimal legal approach, being by no means reluctant to creative solutions.’

‘Valentin Berea and Andrada Rusan were the architects of a very daring pioneering case on abuse of superior bargaining position, which they pursued with tenacity, creativity and exceptional legal skill.’

‘As team, I appreciate the cooperation and respect between them. The dialog with the team is always fruitful and innovative.’

Kernmandanten

Zabka Polska


Groupama Asigurari


Electrica


Zenith Media


Ursus Breweries


Regina Maria


Maspex Romania


Scania AB, Scania CV AB, Scania Deutschland GmbH, Scania Romania


Asirom Vienna Insurance Group


Henkel Romania


British American Tobacco


Highlight-Mandate


  • Represented Groupama in court proceedings concerning the reduction of a fine imposed by the Romanian Competition Council.
  • Represented Zenith Media Communications in a case before the European Court of Justice.
  • Representing Electrica in court proceedings in the first ‘facilitator-victim’ case in the whole EU to date for allegedly facilitating a cartel between its meter suppliers.

Schoenherr si Asociatii SCA

Cross-border competition law matters are a standout strength of Schoenherr si Asociatii SCA‘s Bucharest office. Its practice is sought after to assist clients with investigations brought by the RCC, as well as international authorities. Merger clearance, antitrust and damages litigation, compliance, foreign direct investment and state aid issues are all also within the wheelhouse of the group. Appreciated for her ‘deep understanding of the legal framework’, practice head Georgiana Bădescu handles the full range of contentious and non-contentious EU and competition work. Cristiana Manea and Darius Trusculete are further contacts to note.

Praxisleiter:

Georgiana Bădescu


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Cristiana Manea; Darius Trușculete


Referenzen

‘We have seen Schoenherr Romania in several competition projects lately, all involving local law, mostly referring to merger clearance and compliance matters. They have strong reputation in competition matters. They provide concise advice, are flexible and attentive. What makes them stand out is their client focus and practical and comprehensible advice.’

‘The competition team’s strength lies with Georgiana Badescu, who has a great deal of experience in antitrust matters.’

‘Cristiana Manea is extremely knowledgeable and provides high-quality competition advice. The concise advise and practical view of each project is what we valued most.’

Kernmandanten

Agrofert


DDM Invest


Romcim


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised DDM Holding on merger clearance and FDI screening regarding the acquisition of a non-performing loans (NPL) portfolio with a face value of EUR 1bn from Intrum.
  • Advised Agrofert on merger control proceedings in front of the European Commission and FDI screening regarding its acquisition of sole control in East Grain and coordinated filings in non-EU jurisdictions.
  • Advised Romcim on merger clearance and FDI screening Romcim regarding the acquisition of Tehno World.

Tuca Zbârcea & Asociatii

Working in close collaboration with its broad dispute resolution department, the competition and EU law offering at Tuca Zbârcea & Asociatii acts in a diverse spread of antitrust, merger control and state aid procedures before the Romanian Competition Council, as well as the European Commission. The team also continues to draw new clients for merger control and day-to-day competition law advice. Raluca Vasilache has vast experience in investigations and dawn raids, as well as more routine counsel. She co-leads the group with Andreea Oprișan, who is accomplished in state aid issues as well as multi-jurisdictional merger control.

Referenzen

‘The competition law team of Tuca Zbarcea & Asociatii (especially Andreea Oprisan) is truly outstanding. They have a high degree of understanding of the pharma sector and they collaborate very well with the pharma, biotechnology and medical devices regulatory team of the law firm.’

‘I would like to nominate Andreea Oprisan, partner as an outstanding lawyer in the competition field. Andreea is providing very clear advices. She has a good understanding of our business which is a high plus. Andreea is clearly knowledgeable in competition law with an extensive experience in this sector. She is sees all angles of a problem and has a solution finding approach. Hence, we are very comfortable to have her as our advisor.’

‘The competition law team of Tuca Zbarcea & Asociatii is truly outstanding. The competition partners Raluca Vasilache and Andreea Oprisan work very well together and represent a golden dream team. Raluca adds to the equation a slightly more experienced insight and a pragmatic overview of things, while Andreea brings a breath of fresh ideas, innovation, and enthusiasm in a very well put together advice and perspective. We highly appreciate working with the Tuca Zbarcea & Asociatii competition team. There are very knowledgeable, prompt, easy to work with and we are confident with their advice.’

Highlight-Mandate


360Competition

Specialist in this area 360Competition has extensive expertise in advising on the full range of EU and competition matters. This encompasses merger control, antitrust proceedings, foreign direct investment, state aid, and unfair competition issues. Clients are drawn from a broad spectrum of sectors and include multinationals, domestic market leaders, and start-ups. Practice head Adrian Şter ‘is known for his deep knowledge of EU competition law’, and Andrei Georgescu has broad experience across antitrust and competition, as well as IP. Raluca Maxim is an additional contact to note.

Praxisleiter:

Adrian Şter


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Andrei Georgescu; Raluca Maxim


Referenzen

‘360Competition are a group of very experienced EU law experts. The exchange with the lawyers is always very intuitive, non-formal and with a high level of expertise in the answers, which allows for a very clear understanding of the way forward. We have relied on the 360Competition to coordinate international projects involving lawyers from other jurisdictions.’

‘Andrei Georgescu is quite an energy expert who comprehends our problems and is extremely independent and fast. He has invaluable industry experience that enhances his clear legal advice.’

‘What sets 360Competition’s EU and competition practice apart is its depth of expertise combined with an innovative, client-first approach. The team specialises in handling highly complex competition law matters, offering a comprehensive understanding of EU regulations and market dynamics.’

Kernmandanten

DP World (Romania)


Bolt


Groupe SNEF


Grampet Group


Bursa Romana de Marfuri (Romanian Commodities Exchange) SA


Akkodis Romania


Datanet Systems


URBB – United Romanian Breweries Bereprod


Muller Dairy Romania


Punctual Comimpex


Highlight-Mandate


  • Assisting DP World Romania with several competition and FDI matters, including the notification of two foreign investments consisting in maritime facilities, carried out in Constanta Harbour, a container port in the Black Sea and a strategic location for both Romania and the EU.
  • Assisting Bolt with all its competition matters, including its expansion into new verticals and their integration into the platform.
  • Representing Bursa Romana de Marfuri in a second preliminary referral to the CJUE involving the application of Art. 102 TFUE to the activity of the incumbent State-owned power exchange in Romania, in the context of the enactment of the Third Energy Package.

Biris Goran SPARL

Several aspects of Biris Goran SPARL‘s competition and antitrust practice distinguish it in the market, including its track record in cartel and price-fixing cases, as well as its strong client relationships in the finance sector. Practice head Gelu Goran has a focus on cartel investigations, leniency, and settlement procedures. Răzvan Bardicea assists across the range of contentious matters, as well as merger control filings and antitrust compliance, and Mioara Grecu is also frequently part of teams of counsel.

Praxisleiter:

Gelu Goran


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Mihai Nușcă; Răzvan Bardicea; Mioara Grecu; Radu Jianu


Referenzen

‘The team is well set-up, having quick response time, feedback received is always well documented and efficient.’

‘Outstanding professionals, feedback tailored to the client’s needs and specifics.’

‘Gelu Goran is an exceptional lawyer with a pragmatic and down-to-earth mindset. He has a remarkable ability to simplify complex matters, making them easy to discuss.’

Kernmandanten

MedEuropa


Travelminit


Prutul


Publicis Group Holding


CTPark


Timac Agro


UniCredit Leasing Corporation


Procter & Gamble


Profi


Luzan Logistic


Highlight-Mandate


  • Assisted MedEuropa with its sale to Affidea, handling all sell side merger control, ancillary restraints, and foreign direct investment matters.
  • Advised Prutul on an investigation commenced in spring 2023 by the Competition Council focused on alleged price fixing.
  • Assisting CTP with the merger filing for its acquisition of an industrial and logistic parks portfolio in Western Romania, Central Romania and in the metropolitan areas of Bucharest and Pitesti (both in Southern Romania), from Globalworth.

Bondoc si Asociatii SCA

Extensive experience in state aid matters underpins the broad antitrust and competition law offering at Bondoc si Asociatii SCA has a broad antitrust offering and extensive experience in advising on state aid matters. The team is well versed in representing clients from a broad range of sectors, but in healthcare and pharmaceuticals it has forged particularly strong connections. Lucian Bondoc co-leads the practice and acts in the full range of work that the team covers. Alongside her, Raluca Nadejde draws on experience in all matters relating to cross-border transactions. Associates Ionut Lechea and Calina Pavel are further contacts to note.


Praxisleiter:

Lucian Bondoc; Raluca Nadejde


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Ionuț Lechea; Călina Pavel


Referenzen

‘Strong knowledge of the competition law and local specifics of its implementation. Very diligent approach and attention to client requests.’

Kernmandanten

Corteva Group


Returo Sistem Garanție Returnare


Distrigaz Sud Retele SRL


NOD Network SRL


Merck Sharp & Dohme


Mazars Romania SRL


Pfizer Romania SRL


Sanofi Romania SA


Clubul Fermierilor Romania


Opella Romania SRL


Organon Biosciences SRL


Fresenius Medical Care Romania, Fresenius Medical Care GMBH


Omnigen Romania SRL


Highlight-Mandate


  • Assisting Corteva Crop Protection Romania and Pioneer Romana with an on-going complex infringement investigation launched by the Competition Council with respect to alleged commercial practices involving distributors, which are suspected of amounting to price fixing in relation to farmers.
  • Assisting Returo with numerous competition law aspects deriving from the implementation of the business model, the drafting of competition law internal procedures or antitrust aspects deriving from the negotiation of the agreements with producers of beverages and retailers, required to be concluded by the company for the implementation of the guarantee-return system in Romania.
  • Assisting Pfizer on a wide range of competition law topics including dominance- related aspects, participation in public tenders, change of distribution model from traditional to reduced number of wholesalers, extensive review of commercial offers and discount schemes, review of distribution agreements, analysis of relevant product markets, antitrust assessment of agency-based business models, etc.

DLA Piper Dinu SCA

The life sciences sector and others subject to heavy regulatory scrutiny are the specialism of DLA Piper Dinu SCA's competition practice. Both merger control filings and assistance with industry investigations are covered by the group. Livia Zamfiropol draws on more than two decades of experience in leading the practice, handling antitrust investigations concerning anti-competitive agreements and alleged abuse of dominance. She coordinates the team with Alina Lacatus, who focuses on companies within the life sciences, FMCG and retail arenas. Razvan Pele is the main support contact to note.

Praxisleiter:

Livia Zamfiropol; Alina Lăcătuș


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Razvan Pele


Referenzen

‘Related to our collaboration, I would like to point out the expertise of the team, their flexibility and creativity to identify the best solutions and action ways accordingly with partner objectives. Not the last, it is important to mention the openness, availability and engagement of the team in the partnership.’

‘The team members involved in our collaboration were 100% at our disposal, giving us a strong filling of confidence and I would like to mention here Livia Zamfiropol and Alina Antonie.’

‘The team is very efficient and able to run precise assessments with a view of the implementation of the related outcome.’

Kernmandanten

Takeda Pharmaceuticals International AG


Zabka Polska Sp z o.o.


Tema Energy SA


Romanian Association of the Self-care Industry (RASCI)


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for Takeda Pharmaceuticals International AG on matters including an annulment case pending before the Bucharest Court of Appeals, seeking the annulment of a substantial fine imposed by the Romanian Competition Council for alleged collusive behaviour by various immunoglobulin producers under the umbrella of the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA) in Romania.
  • Acting for Zabka Polska in its entry on the Romanian market.
  • Representing Tema Energy in court proceedings for the annulment of the fine applied by the Romanian Competition Council for an alleged boycott between competitors in the context of a significant data centre public procurement procedure organised by the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Kinstellar

Kinstellar's competition and antitrust group has recently taken a larger share of the market’s investigations work, building on its slate of merger control mandates in Romania. Its client roster is largely international and covers various industries. Practice head Iustinian Captariu and Cătălin Graure are praised for their ‘deep expertise, combined with their meticulous attention to detail’, and after the September 2024 acquisition of Noerr by Kinstellar, the office gained Rusandra Sandu and Iulian Sorescu who have competition and state aid expertise, respectively.

Praxisleiter:

Iustinian Captariu


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Cătălin Graure


Referenzen

‘Kinstellar has provided us with exceptional service, demonstrating remarkable thoroughness and attention to detail in their analysis. Their ability to break down complex legal issues and present clear, actionable advice has been invaluable to our decision-making process in complex and sensitive competition law investigations. What sets them apart is their commitment to provide high standards service and availability to support us. They make us feel like a top priority on top of delivering excellent legal services. We value all the support we received from them throughout the years.’

‘Iustin Captariu and Catalin Graure’s deep expertise, combined with their meticulous attention to detail has resulted in a top-tier analysis that consistently provides us with clear, strategic guidance. Each lawyer is highly responsive and ensures that we receive timely advice. Their dedication, professionalism and collaborative approach have made working with them an absolute pleasure.’

‘They have extended knowledge not only of the local market and legal environment but thanks to their presence in different countries of the region they have broader view of the questions raised to them and know how to present the case for clients from other countries – which aspects should be highlighted to them (which might be obvious to local clients). They are responsive, adapt to clients’ needs regarding the timing and the budget. They offer not only strictly legal advice but are able to combine it with the specificities of the market and more commercial approach.’

Kernmandanten

Alpha Leasing


Maïsadour Semences


Lesaffre


Trivium Packaging


Maersk Romania


Perrigo


Big Mega Renewable Energy


W. P. Carey


BRD – Groupe Société Générale


BRD Asset Management


PDQ Corporation


Perficient


Yanolja Cloud


I Squared Capital


Canadian Nuclear Partners


Miele Appliances


Mastercard


France Valley Europe


Indotek


Highlight-Mandate


Popovici Nitu Stoica & Asociatii

Popovici Nitu Stoica & Asociatii continues to be a strong choice for clients needing assistance with contentious competition law matters. The team has recently acted in sector investigations as well as investigations into abuse of dominant position. Clients include several multinationals in addition to market leading domestic companies. Mihaela Ion leads the practice group and is well regarded in the Romanian market for antitrust work. Clients praise her teamwork with Laura Ambrozie, and Vanessa Nistor is a further practitioner of note.

Praxisleiter:

Mihaela Ion


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Laura Ambrozie; Vanessa Nistor


Referenzen

‘Very experienced team, getting the best possible results for clients.’

‘The quick reaction and the communication with the dedicated lawyers Mihaela Ion and Laura Ambrozie.’

‘A very friendly and open manner to communicate, including with the business people.’

Kernmandanten

Hewlett Packard INC Romania


PPC (former ENEL)


Dekagro


Morphosis/Mark Twain


Warehouses de Pauw Romania


Ameropa Holding


Kontron Services (former S&T Romania)


Albalact, Covalact & Dorna Lactate


Highlight-Mandate


Reff & Associates SCA

Reff & Associates SCA, part of the Deloitte network, fields a ‘highly qualified and business-oriented team of experienced professionals’ in EU and competition law. Antitrust and cartel investigations are handled by the group, and state aid issues are a further area of strength. The ‘impressive’ negotiation abilities of practice head Florentina Munteanu are a boon to clients, and her team includes Andrea Grigoras, an expert in antitrust matters and compliance with competition regulations, and Mihnea Radu, who assists  analysing cartels, abuse of dominance, and other anticompetitive practices.

Praxisleiter:

Florentina Munteanu


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Andrea Grigoras; Mihnea Radu


Referenzen

‘I endorse Reff for their exceptional expertise and client-focused approach. They provide strategic, personalized advice, blending the agility of a boutique firm with the resources of a larger practice—truly setting them apart in the industry.’

‘The individuals I’ve worked with stand out for their deep expertise, professionalism and dedication. They consistently go above and beyond, offering clear, strategic advice tailored to my needs. People like Florentina Munteanu have been invaluable, not just for their legal knowledge, but for their responsiveness and attention to detail.’

‘The team stands out for its professionalism, promptness, proactive attitude.’

Kernmandanten

Fildas Trading


Orkla Foods, part of the Norwegian Orkla Group


DM Drogerie Markt


Logicom Distribution


ROCA INDUSTRY


Expo Market Doraly S.R.L.


Vectr Farm Braila S.R.L.


Smart Soft Power S.R.L.


BADER HOLDING GLOBAL GMBH


Highlight-Mandate


  • Assisting Intesa Sanpaolo Bank Romania in two investigations by the Competition Council: Robor rate and FICO Score.
  • Assisting Fildas Trading with a range of competition law matters deriving from distribution agreements.
  • Assisting ROCA Industry with the merger filing necessary for the acquisition of 70% of share capital of Workshop Doors S.R.L.

Wolf Theiss

The broad competition and antitrust practice at Wolf Theiss in Bucharest is admired for its ‘innovative approach’ and ‘deep expertise’. Practice head Anca Jurcovan is praised by clients for ‘consistently delivering precise, tailored advice’, and her team is well versed in acting for international and domestic companies in investigations brought by the RCC. Merger control matters are also a key component of the group’s workload. Claudia Andreescu, a dedicated competition law professional, supports on the range of matters, and both Maria Popescu and Andrei Turcu are key contacts.

Praxisleiter:

Anca Jurcovan


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Claudia Andreescu; Maria Popescu


Referenzen

‘This practice is distinguished by its holistic approach to complex legal matters, particularly in the realm of EU and competition law. Clients would find the team’s strength in navigating intricate issues, such as windfall taxes in the energy sector, particularly valuable. Led by exceptional the team delves into not just legal analysis but also the broader business implications, ensuring solutions are tailored to the client’s unique context. Their ability to foster seamless communication and collaboration enhances their effectiveness, addressing sophisticated legal challenges with finesse.’

‘Overall, the practice’s innovative approach, combined with its deep expertise and adaptability, sets it apart from competitors in the legal landscape.’

‘Our key contact at the firm is Anca Jurcovan, whose proactive and trustful approach has been invaluable in managing complex cases. She is among the sharpest and most efficient lawyers we’ve worked with, consistently delivering precise, tailored advice in EU and competition law. What sets them apart is their seamless collaboration with our internal teams and other professionals, which enhances the success of our legal initiatives. Her open communication ensures we’re informed at every step, and their responsiveness and personalised approach give us confidence that our concerns are always handled with care and precision.’

Kernmandanten

Vel Pitar (part of Grupo Bimbo)


KKR


Association for Privately Administered Pensions in Romania (APAPR)


Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association


Lucsor Impex


Expleo Group


FCC Environment


Lingemann Beschaffungssysteme


DTEK Renewables


Vodafone


Dukes Education


Highlight-Mandate


  • Assisting DTEK Renewables International with specific merger control and FDI aspects of their expansion on the Romanian market.
  • Assisting FCC Environment Romania SRL with the Romanian Competition Council investigation regarding its alleged abuse of dominance on the market for industrial waste landfilling in the western and southwestern part of Romania.
  • Representing Lingemann Beschaffungssysteme in a court litigation after the finalisation of the investigation of the Romanian Competition Council.

bpv Grigorescu Stefanica

bpv Grigorescu Stefanica 's competition and antitrust practice excels in assisting its clients with the prevention of anti-competitive practices, and is also a reliable choice of counsel for the competition law aspects of M&A. Catalin Grigorescu co-leads the team with January 2024 partner promotion Cristina De Jonge, and the development in the team was further showcased with Denisa Kopandi‘s promotion to senior associate in March 2024.

Praxisleiter:

Cătălin Grigorescu; Cristina de Jonge


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Iulia Dragomir; Denisa Kopandi; Anamaria Rotariu-Staicu


Referenzen

‘The firm has clear in-depth expertise in Romanian competition law. They were responsive, provided detailed legal analysis but also pragmatic advice that enabled our client to informed business decisions related to the transaction.’

Kernmandanten

Ziegler Group


Infineon


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  • Advised Ziegler Group on obtaining merger control and foreign direct investment clearance on acquisition of HS Timber Productions Sebes SRL.
  • Advised Infineon on updating the dawn raids procedure in consideration of the current Romanian and EU competition regulators’ powers of inspection and related case law developments.
  • Assisted Beiersdorf with competition compliance training.

CMS

As part of a strong offering across the CEE region, CMS's Bucharest office houses a competition law team that acts on high-profile merger clearance work. Competition compliance matters are also a strength. The practice is jointly led by Horea Popescu, who has experience in regulatory compliance, investigations and dawn-raids, and regulatory law expert Cristina PopescuClaudia Nagy and Laura Capata are other key names to note.

Praxisleiter:

Horea Popescu; Cristina Popescu


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Claudia Nagy; Laura Capata


Kernmandanten

L & C Properties (part of M Core)


OTP Group


Cicor Group


Integral Venture Partners


Alcedo


Entek


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Dentons

Frequently drawing in complex merger control matters from its broader transactional teams, the competition and antitrust group at Dentons in Bucharest ‘takes a pragmatic approach to addressing complex issues around transaction structures’. Raul Mihu leads the team and focuses on FDI clearance, consumer protection, and merger control. Litigation expert Alexandra Radulescu is also a key figure, with Argentina Rafail and Iulia Titirisca supporting.

Praxisleiter:

Raul Mihu


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Alexandra Radulescu; Argentina Rafail; Iulia Titirisca


Referenzen

‘The team takes a pragmatic approach to addressing complex issues around transaction structures, offering either detailed analysis or straightforward advice when needed. They are highly dependable, have good problem-solving skills and I would not hesitate to recommend the firm.’

‘Raul Mihu is a great specialist, commercial and client-oriented. He is responsive and efficient.’

Kernmandanten

Polenergia


Battery Ventures XIV (AIV I Cayman), L.P.


Metro


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Musat & Asociatii

As part of its full-service business law offering, Musat & Asociatii has a competition and antitrust group that frequently assists with those aspects of significant M&A and joint ventures in the Romanian market. The team is also able to take on investigations and other contentious matters in the field, with practice head Paul Buta receiving client recommendation for his ‘outstanding litigation skills’. Manuela Lupeanu focuses on competition law and is also a client favourite.

Praxisleiter:

Paul Buta


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Manuela Lupeanu


Referenzen

‘Their team is comprised of capable, highly experienced and sophisticated members, very committed and with very good response times. The team is highly knowledgeable and has a thorough understanding of both the legal and business aspects of cases, being able to very clearly explain complex business aspects so that they can be easily understood by the court of law. Our experience working with Manuela Lupeanu and Paul Buta is very good. Both are very professional, very proficient in their level of expertise, highly committed, with very good commercial awareness.’

‘Manuela Lupeanu has a very deep understanding of competition law, is very thorough and she is also very hard-working. Her commitment is unique. She is a real asset for the firm.’

‘Paul Buta has outstanding litigation skills.’

Kernmandanten

NAXXAR RENEWABLE ENERGY


Cluj Avram Iancu International Airport


Electrolux


Eli Lilly


Geely Holding Group, Geely Automobile Holdings Limited


Friesland Campina


Sig Sauer


Servier Pharma


Damen Shipyards Group


Rewe


Electromagnetica


Ecro


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  • Assisted Naxxar Renewable Energy with the development and sale of a 685.6 MW wind project consisting of +110 Wind turbine Generators (WTG), clustered under 7 (seven) SPV to Polenergia.
  • Assisted Geely Holding Group and Geely Automobile Holdings with the Romanian legal aspects of a binding 50/50 joint venture agreement with Renault Group to launch a new powertrain technology company.
  • Assisted Electrolux through its local subsidiary, with analysis of Electrolux Romania’s distribution relations and day-to-day competition law-related activities.

Stratulat Albulescu Attorneys at Law

Stratulat Albulescu Attorneys at Law‘s competition team is adept in a number of matters, ranging from competition compliance, support in investigations, and antitrust litigation, to M&A and joint venture clearance, state aid, and FDI issues. Ana Maria Kusak leads the team and her practice is focused in this area. She is supported on the full range of matters by Alexandru Lazar.


Praxisleiter:

Ana Maria Kusak


Referenzen

‘The team is fast and to the point with great knowledge.’

‘They did a great job with excellent support.’

‘ Ana Kusak a very well trained lawyer who responds promptly to requests, fast feedback of high professional training.’

Kernmandanten

HERVIS SPORTS AND FASHION S.R.L.


TEXMO BLANK BETEILIGUNGS GMBH


EXCLUSIVE NETWORKS TECHNOLOGY ROMANIA SRL


Zamfirescu Racoti Vasile & Partners

As one of the country’s top dispute resolution destinations, Zamfirescu Racoti Vasile & Partners excels on that front when it comes to competition and antitrust issues, acting in a variety of challenges and actions before the RCC. Elena Iacob, who leads the team, receives recognition for her ‘analytical skills and attention to detail’, and Ioana Racoti adds seniority. Violeta Saranciuc supports on the range of contentious matters.

Praxisleiter:

Elena Iacob


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Ioana Racoti; Violeta Saranciuc


Referenzen

‘Zamfirescu Racoți Vasile & Partners stand out for their deep expertise in competition law, especially within the energy sector. The team’s knowledge of both Romanian and European energy legislation is unmatched, making them the go-to advisors for our Association. Their ability to navigate complex legal landscapes and coordinate with multiple authorities, including the Competition Council, National Authority for Regulation in Energy, and the European Commission, has been critical in our projects. They bring a practical approach, focusing on delivering results efficiently, and their responsiveness is top-notch, ensuring that our needs are always met promptly.’

‘Ioana Racoti and Elena Iacob are exceptional. Ioana’s strategic insight and deep understanding of the energy sector have been invaluable, particularly in matters involving competition law. Elena’s analytical skills and attention to detail ensure that every legal angle is thoroughly covered. Both have a strong client-centric approach, consistently providing practical and effective solutions tailored to our needs. Their dedication and ability to anticipate challenges make them standout advisors. We have always felt confident relying on their expertise, and their professionalism is reflected in the successful outcomes of our projects.’

‘ZRVP is our law firm for two decades already, so the main strength is common understanding of topics and dedication they show in any day to day or new situation.’

Kernmandanten

Advised TTS (Transport Trade Services)


TTS (Transport Rade Services)


Romaqua Group SA


Romanian Association of Banks


Elpreco


Menzies Aviation Romania


Association Of Business Services Leaders In Romania


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised TTS on the notification to the Competition Council of an acquisition of a port operation company active Constanta Port.
  • Advising Menzies Aviation Romania on all competition law matters in Romania.
  • Representing the Romanian Forestry Association in a challenge against a decision of the Romanian Competition Council whereby is was fined for an alleged infringement consisting in a decision by an association of undertakings.