MAI

Dümmen merges with Agribio Group

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 15:37:00 +0200

Germany │ Netherlands The German breeder and young plant producer Dümmen has successfully merged with Netherlands-based vegetative breeder and propagator Agribio Group to form DNA Green Group, with an annual turnover of US$228 million and 6,000 employees worldwide. The merger is in response to the rapidly changing business environment in the global floricultural industry. The Dümmen family, management and Agribio Group sponsor H2 Equity Partners are the new company’s shareholders.

Founded in the late 1960s, Dümmen has grown to be one of the leading young plant producers and breeders of bedding plants and poinsettias in the world. Its key markets are Europe and North America, with production facilities in Germany, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Ethiopia and Italy.

Agribio Group is active in 56 countries and trades over one billion cuttings per year. The group includes top breeding companies such as Fides, Ecke, Japan Agribio, Barberet & Blanc, Bartels Stek and Lex+.

This deal is another prime example of M&A International Inc.’s services, with Holland Corporate Finance in the Netherlands and Angermann M&A International GmbH in Germany working closely to provide the best possible M&A advice to Dümmen in this complex cross-border transaction.

Tobias Dümmen, CEO of Dümmen and the new Dümmen division of the combined company said: “Dümmen has a longstanding relationship with Holland Corporate Finance from earlier transactions in the floricultural sector that they advised on. We involved Holland Corporate Finance and Angermann in our family discussions and decided to look for a partner that would help us play a leading role in the ongoing market consolidation and also make a generation change possible. After thorough preparation, discussions started with Agribio Group. The resulting merger creates substantial synergies and enables our family’s continued commitment to the floriculture sector.”

M&A International Inc. Energy Infrastructure – Construction & Engineering Services (CES): M&A Opportunities in a Rapidly Changing Global Energy Economy

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 16:06:00 +0200

5 April 2013. In this industry M&A overview, M&A International’s CES specialists expect stronger and more consistent M&A activity in the energy infrastructure space, accompanied by rising valuations.

The world is divided on energy policy, primarily due to sharp disagreements between countries and regions (and within countries and regions) on what the energy economy of the future should look like. The shale gas revolution has had a major impact on the world energy economy and taken many policymakers and business leaders by complete surprise. In 2010, many believed that the world had passed “peak oil” and that, moving forward, we would be exploring ways to manage a scarcity of energy resources, while quickly investing in alternative energy to replace fossil fuels.

Today, carbon trading schemes and alternative energy investments are no longer attracting significant unsubsidized capital, and that investment shift, along with general uncertainty about the global economy, has created choppy deal activity in most of the world, as documented in this report.

M&A International’s specialists suggest stronger and more consistent M&A activity in the energy infrastructure space, accompanied by rising valuations. Oil and gas is being discovered in unexpected locations around the world, and investors have begun to consider a future of energy abundance. Looking ahead, oil and gas production will sharply increase, driven by aggregate global energy demand. An unprecedented amount of capital will be deployed to bring the mobility fuels, electricity and industrial feedstocks to market that are produced with the abundant new supplies of hydrocarbon commodities. Deal activity within the landscape is ramping up as strategic players look to invest excess funds in inorganic growth. Construction and engineering services (CES) companies are likely to consolidate their market positions to challenge the competition and grow through vertical integration.

This report gives an overview and analysis of M&A activity in the sector, M&A trends and opportunities by region and looks at key near-term M&A drivers.

M&A International Inc., with its extensive experience in the CES sector, can help investors on how to make the most of the current trends covered in this report.

Download the report below.

Consult the list of M&A International Inc.'s CES Industry Specialists here.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 600 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed 1,300 transactions totaling more than US$75 billion in transaction value in the past five years.

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Sulzer acquires Krøger A/S

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 10:48:00 +0100

Denmark │ Switzerland

Sulzer AG has acquired the Danish business Krøger A/S, a leading manufacturer of manual and pneumatic caulking guns for any application. The acquisition expands the product portfolio of the business unit Sulzer Mixpac and strengthens its position as a global market leader providing system solutions for mixing and dispensing applications. The Sulzer global operational setup and distribution network will give Krøger access to new geographical areas and market segments.

Over the last 50 years, Krøger has developed a leading range of high quality manual, pneumatic and battery driven 1- and 2-component dispensers for numerous industry and construction applications with the well-known brand name MK. A joint development with Sulzer for a spray-coating dispenser, opening new growth potential in corrosion protection, has proved to be successful.

The integration of the acquired business into Sulzer will begin immediately. All employees will be retained, assuring ongoing customer dedication and quality commitment.

M&A International Inc.’s members in Denmark (Audon Partners) and Switzerland (Binder Corporate Finance) collaborated closely to advise Sulzer throughout the acquisition process.

Spring is in the air at M&A International Inc. The new season sees acknowledgement of outstanding cooperation between its members, further development of its media expertise and expansion of its global footprint

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 17:11:00 +0100

Brussels, 26 March 2013. Over 160 M&A International Inc. merger and acquisition professionals attended the 60^th M&A International Inc. Conference and the 13^th M&A Mid-Market Forum in Brussels.

The 13^th M&A Mid-Market Forum (MMF) began at NYSE Euronext on Thursday 21 March with the Brussels Bell Ceremony announcing the opening of the markets. The Forum, organized by M&A International Inc. (MAI), the world’s leading M&A alliance, attracted over 160 M&A advisors from more than 40 countries who met with 60-plus clients of the host member Petercam S.A. and other supporting members. The MMF is part of the M&A International Spring Conference and is specifically designed to network with peers to build relationships, progress M&A strategy, and discuss and generate business opportunities through a series of pre-arranged private meetings. Over 600 one-to-one meetings were held between strategic minds from the corporate world and M&A professionals from around the globe based on specific geographical and sector interests.

M&A International Inc. Annual Awards

The success of the alliance depends greatly on the continued collaboration between its members. M&A International Inc. presented three awards acknowledging outstanding cooperation during the Friday dinner of the 2013 Spring Conference held at Le Concert Noble in Brussels.

The winners of this year’s M&A International Inc. Annual Awards are:

Member of the Year: Cavendish Corporate Finance (United Kingdom)
Deal of the Year: Centrovet sells a 51% equity interest to Virbac, advised by Landmark Capital S.A. (South America) and Aelios Finance (France)
Industry Group Leader of the Year: Ruud van Hoek, Head of the Food & Beverage Group, Holland Corporate Finance (the Netherlands)

The M&A International Inc. Media Group

The Spring Conference proved the perfect time to launch our new Media Group chaired by Reed Philips of our New York-based member, DeSilva+Phillips LLC.

"Today's media industry is transforming and the number of cross-border transactions is growing dramatically as a result of the increasingly global nature of the industry. Traditional media companies are consolidating on a global scale and new ventures are focusing on global audiences.

Our Media Group includes a diverse group of professionals who have deep industry insights across multiple sectors. With decades of experience in both operational roles and investment banking, our team has developed in-depth local market knowledge and can work together seamlessly to complete complex transactions. We have unparalleled bench strength — and no second-stringers."

Reed Philips, Head of M&A International Inc.'s Media Group

A new member in Russia

We are delighted to add Moscow to our map and welcome our new colleagues at LATUM Investment Banking Services, an independent company established in 2006 by top managers from Russian and Western investment banks. Over recent years, the company has closed more than fifty investment banking deals totaling over US$1 billion. Their clients are Russian and international companies focused on ongoing enhancement of their business value. The firm specializes in guiding clients through the entire process, from business idea to exit, and offers M&A, fundraising, corporate defense and investment attractiveness services. www.latum.ru/eng/

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 600 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center in the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed 1,300 transactions totaling more than US$75 billion in transaction value in the past five years. www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259

Tetra Tech Inc. acquires Parkland Pipeline Contractors Ltd.

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 11:20:00 +0100

Canada │ United States

Environmental consulting and engineering firm Tetra Tech Inc. (NASDAQ: TTEK) has acquired the Canadian oil and gas service company Parkland Pipeline Contractors Ltd. Parkland Pipeline will join Tetra Tech’s Remediation and Construction Management (RCM) segment. The terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.

Based in Alberta, Parkland Pipeline specializes in the planning, construction and ongoing maintenance of pipelines as well as the maintenance of pipeline oilfield facilities.

Tetra Tech is a leading global provider of consulting, engineering, program management, construction management and technical services for the water, environment, energy, infrastructure and natural resources sectors.

M&A International Inc.’s Canadian member, Veracap M&A International Inc., initiated discussions with the seller and identified the market experience and advisor skill set required to meet the prospective client’s needs. Veracap invited Dallas-based member Capital Alliance to collaboratively engage with the seller and pursue the transaction. The two-member M&A International team identified a dozen qualified and highly interested buyers for the seller through a disciplined sale process. The seller ultimately received attractive offers from three qualified buyers. The M&A International team negotiated with the various buyers to get the best deal for the seller.

This transaction represents an excellent example of the tremendous value that an M&A International team approach can deliver to clients.

Balda AG builds medical segment with two US acquisitions

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 14:07:00 +0100

Germany │ United States

German group Balda AG (Balda), which is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, has purchased 100% of the shares in C. Brewer Company, Anaheim, California and in HK Plastics Engineering, Inc., Oceanside, California for US$50 million and US$15 million respectively. These acquisitions are part of Balda’s buy-and-build strategy for its medical segment, extending its presence in the strategically important US market.

Balda develops and manufactures high quality plastic systems for medical appliances as well as complete electronic products for communication and entertainment. The Balda Medical segment in Bad Oeynhausen develops and produces plastic solutions for the medical technology, pharmaceutical and diagnostics markets.

The C. Brewer Company, a family-owned business, specializes in precision injection-molded plastics and associated molds, in particular for customers from the medical and optical industries as well as from the automotive and electronics sectors.

Family-owned HK Plastics Engineering, Inc. is a full-service supplier of injection-molded plastics and associated molds. Its services range from design and development to tool manufacturing and the molding process up to mechanical installations. More than 80 percent of its revenue comes from medical customers, especially in the area of medical diagnostics.

M&A International Inc.’s German member, Angermann M&A International GmbH, and US-based member, MASI, Ltd., advised Balda on both acquisitions. The deals were closed in less than nine months.

M&A International Inc. member Petercam awarded number 1 Equity Finance House of 2012 on NYSE Euronext Brussels

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 12:09:00 +0100

January 2013. M&A International Inc.'s Belgian member Petercam is proud to announce that it has been awarded 'Number 1 Equity Finance House of 2012' on NYSE Euronext Brussels.

The award
Each year, this award is granted to the financial institution that outperformed its peers in the number of equity issues, taking into account the size of the issue and the role of the institution in placement syndicates.

Marc Janssens, member of Petercam's management board, said: “With eight equity placements of listed companies in 2012, worth over EUR400m in total, Petercam has demonstrated its qualities as a prime equity house for Benelux stocks. In addition, in half of the placements, Petercam acted as sole financial institution, a clear indication of the trust that clients put into Petercam to successfully complete their equity capital market transactions.”

Pierre Lebeau and Erik Verkest, co-heads of Petercam Corporate Finance added: “Some sectors, such as biotech and real estate, were again highly active in equity capital markets in 2012. Petercam assisted in share placements of high profile stocks, such as UCB and ThromboGenics. Moreover, successful transactions in companies such as Econocom, Intervest Retail and TiGenix demonstrate that equity capital markets also remain an attractive funding platform for small-caps and their shareholders.”

About Petercam
For more than 30 years, Petercam has assisted customers from various sectors in their M&A and capital markets transactions and in private placements. This has earned Petercam its reputation as a leading independent corporate advisor in the Benelux.

Its corporate structure, investment banking focus and market proximity have consistently been synonymous with independent, objective and tailored advice. Combining an intimate knowledge of the local economic, legal and cultural environment with widespread experience and technical skills in areas ranging from financial analysis and valuation to project management and negotiation tactics, Petercam has excellent networks within the decision makers community. Petercam’s Corporate Finance professionals allow their clients to benefit from the highest professional standards in the execution of their projects.
www.petercam.be

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 600 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed 1,300 transactions totaling more than US$75 billion in transaction value in the past five years.
www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

A-Med Health Care sells its medical supplies division to Byram Healthcare Centers, Inc.

Mon, 31 Dec 2012 12:28:00 +0100

Netherlands │ United States

A-Med Health Care (A-Med) has sold its medical supplies division to Byram Healthcare Centers, Inc. (Byram), a wholly owned subsidiary of Mediq NV (Mediq), for US$38.4 million.

Founded in 1982 and headquartered in Huntington Beach, California, A-Med is one of the leading distributors of incontinence and urology supplies in the California market serving Medicare, Medicaid / Medi-Cal and managed care patients.

Byram Healthcare operates as a US subsidiary of Mediq, an international company delivering medical devices, pharmaceuticals and related care services. Mediq delivers via three channels: direct to people's homes (Direct), to professional customers such as hospitals, nursing homes and GPs (Institutional) and via Mediq Pharmacies. Mediq operates in 15 countries and has its head office in Utrecht, the Netherlands. This acquisition will establish Byram as a leading provider of medical supplies in the Californian home care market.

M&A International Inc.’s Los Angeles-based member, Intrepid Investment Bankers LLC, acted as the exclusive financial advisor to A-Med in connection with this asset sale. M&A International’s Dutch member, Holland Corporate Finance, also collaborated on the deal, identifying and contacting Mediq on behalf of Intrepid. Intrepid previously represented A-Med in the sale of its Specialty Pharmacy division in June 2012.

M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance named as top corporate financial advisor for eighth year in a row

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 02:30:00 +0100

December 2012. M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance has been ranked as the No. 1 financial advisor in Ireland in the annual Mergermarket review of international mergers and acquisitions activity by the specialist M&A publisher. This is the eighth successive year that IBI has been ranked No. 1.

IBI topped the league table for the number of transactions on which it advised with a total of 12 qualifying deals in 2012. Deals on which IBI Corporate Finance advised during 2012 include the Glanbia plc dairy processing joint venture, the Monaghan Mushrooms acquisition of Walkro and the sale of Clerys to Gordon Brothers.

Companies exploring advice again
Commenting on the announcement, Tom Godfrey, IBI Chief Executive, said: “While market conditions remain somewhat challenged, we are seeing good evidence that companies are now exploring transactions again in a way that wasn’t evident in the past two or three years. We anticipate that this will carry forward into next year as sentiment continues to incrementally improve.”

Cross-border deals involving buyers and targets from the UK, US, Belgium, Netherlands, Sweden, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia accounted for 75% of IBI’s total over the last year, reflecting the open nature of the Irish economy and the strength of IBI’s international reach. About Mergermarket
Mergermarket covers corporate finance activity in Europe, North America, Latin America and the Asia Pacific region. Mergermarket generates proprietary intelligence and delivers it, together with daily aggregated content, on its www.mergermarket.com platform.

About IBI Corporate Finance
IBI Corporate Finance is Ireland's leading corporate finance advisor, providing expert, independent advice. It acts for public, private and semi-state companies covering a wide spectrum of domestic and international transactions.

IBI Corporate Finance is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Bank of Ireland Group and is the Irish member of M&A International Inc.

IBI Corporate Finance Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
www.ibicorporatefinance.ie

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 600 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed over 1,400 transactions totaling more than US$85 billion in transaction value in the past five years.
www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Centrovet sells a 51% equity interest to Virbac

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 17:29:00 +0100

Chile │ France

Centrovet, a leading veterinary vaccines and pharmaceuticals laboratory in Santiago, Chile, has entered a joint venture through the sale of a 51% equity interest to the French animal health company Virbac SA (EPA: VIRP).

Established in 1979, Centrovet has become a major player in aquaculture health, building unique know-how and expertise in the development and manufacturing of innovative products for cold water aquaculture. It produces a broad range of injectable and oral vaccines, pharmaceutical specialty products and nutritional additives.

Virbac was founded in 1968 as the first global independent company exclusively dedicated to animal health. Today, the company ranks as the 8th largest animal health company in the world. Its wide range of vaccines and medicines are used in the prevention and treatment of the main pathologies in companion and food-producing animals. Virbac is a public company, which has traded on the Paris stock exchange since 1985.

M&A International Inc.’s Latin American member, Landmark Capital, was the exclusive financial advisor to Centrovet’s shareholders in connection with the sale of the company stake. M&A International’s member in France, Aelios Finance, assisted with the initial contact with Virbac.

FLSmidth & Co. A/S acquires Decanter Machine, Inc.

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 10:48:00 +0100

Denmark │ United States

US-based Decanter Machine, Inc. (Decanter) has been acquired by the Danish equipment, systems and services supplier FLSmidth & Co. A/S (FLSmidth). The terms of the transaction are undisclosed.

Headquartered in Johnson City, Tennessee, with additional locations in South Carolina, USA and New South Wales, Australia, Decanter is recognized as the global leader in the manufacture and repair of screen bowl, solid bowl and hyperbaric centrifuges for mineral processing applications. Decanter’s installed base of more than 550 centrifuges across 11 countries demonstrates its global market leadership.

Founded in 1882, FLSmidth is a worldwide supplier of equipment, systems and services with headquarters in Copenhagen, Demark. The company supplies everything from single machine units to complete minerals and cement flowsheets, including associated services. It serves the cement, base metals, precious metals, light metals, industrial mineral, energy, phosphate and potash, pulp and paper, chemical, food, pharmaceutical, steel and diamond industries. FLSmidth employs over 13,800 people and has operations in more than 50 countries.

M&A International Inc.’s Cleveland-based member Western Reserve Partners LLC worked closely with Audon Partners A/S, M&A International's Danish affiliate, in its service to Decanter. The strategic partnership between Decanter and FLSmidth will allow Decanter to continue to strengthen its position in the global market.

M&A International Inc. expands its global footprint and deepens its industry expertise

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 10:00:00 +0100

Dallas, 1 November 2012. M&A International Inc., the world’s leading M&A alliance, is pleased to announce it has further expanded its global footprint and industry expertise with the admission of two new member firms: DeSilva+Phillips (New York, USA) and Woodside Capital Partners International LLC (Palo Alto, USA).

For M&A International Inc., the admission of these firms represents a major step forward in its ability to advise clients on a global basis through its 46 members operating in 39 countries. These members were admitted at M&A International’s Fall Conference held in Dallas.

As part of the Fall Conference, M&A International Inc. and its Dallas-based member Capital Alliance Corporation organized “World Energy in 2040: The Facts, Physics and Economics”, a conference focusing on some of the major energy challenges the world will be facing over the next 30 years and addressing both energy sources and energy demand starting with ExxonMobil's "Outlook for Energy: A View to 2040". The event attracted the ‘Who’s Who’ of industry executives, CEOs and policy advisors as well as over 100 professionals from M&A International Inc. They were all keen to gain substantial insight into the debate surrounding energy policy, including who the beneficiaries are, where global capital will be invested and how technology is leading to new opportunities. Attendees were impressed with the line-up of speakers and the diversity and boldness of their opinions and views.

“In the decades ahead, the world will need to expand energy supplies in a way that is safe, secure, affordable and environmentally responsible. The scale of the challenge is enormous and requires an integrated set of solutions and the pursuit of all economic options.” Rex W. Tillerson, Chairman and CEO, ExxonMobil

“We had a very productive conference with over 20 speakers covering a broad range of worldwide energy topics. This conference provided good insight into the real economics of various energy sources.” Ed Dawson, Chairman, President, and CEO, Capital Alliance

About our new members

  DeSilva+Phillips
DeSilva+Phillips is a New York-based investment bank that advises middle-market clients in traditional and digital media, advertising, marketing services, healthcare media & communications, education and information. DeSilva+Phillips has completed more than 250 transactions since 1996 valued at $8.5 billion. They provide M&A advisory and corporate restructuring services and private placements of debt and equity. Their broker-dealer affiliate, DeSilva+Phillips Corporate Finance LLC, is a member of FINRA and SIPC.  

Website: www.desilvaphillips.com
 Location: New York, USA
 
Woodside Capital Partners International LLC 
Woodside Capital Partners is a global, independent investment bank that delivers world-class strategic and financial advice to emerging growth companies in the technology and life sciences sectors. With a strong track record in M&A, strategic partnerships and private placements, Woodside Capital Partners has been providing worldwide investment banking services since 2001. Woodside Capital Partners has offices in Silicon Valley and London, and leading domain experience in software, Internet services, electronics, communications, materials, and life sciences. WCP Research offers research services and business analysis to buy-side institutional investors and industry executives in the technology sectors. The team of Woodside Capital Partners has completed transactions totaling more than $10 billion.
 
Website: www.woodsidecap.com
 Location: Palo Alto, USA 

About M&A International Inc.  
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 600 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed over 1,400 transactions totaling more than US$85 billion in transaction value in the past five years.  www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact: 

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

M&A International Inc. Oilfield Equipment and Services: Merge or Acquire for a Well-Oiled Future

Tue, 02 Oct 2012 11:08:00 +0200

1 October 2012. In this industry M&A overview, M&A International Inc. energy specialists see OFS business fundamentals remaining strong regardless of the wide range of complex challenges it is facing, be it economical, technological, geographical, political or regulatory.

Historically, OFS companies have performed resiliently due to increasing global demand for energy, particularly from emerging economies in Asia and limited worldwide supply of crude oil and hydrocarbons. The challenges faced by OFS companies mainly reflect the fact that to meet the problems posed by rapidly increasing costs, the industry needs access to advanced technologies that are also facing increasing political opposition. Furthermore, the technical success rate for exploration has remained largely unchanged at just under 40% for the past decade. In addition, the cost per discovered barrel is increasing. Therefore, we believe the widespread use of more complex and costly exploration techniques will drive demand for technologies that help de-risk potential prospects.

From an M&A perspective, we expect companies operating in service-intensive demand areas like higher-horsepower drilling rigs and more sophisticated and costly well completions to be potential targets. In addition, we expect fully integrated OFS companies to further increase market share through competition to acquire additional service offerings and technology. We also believe most M&A-related activity will be concentrated in a sub-sector of the middle market, benefitting high technology firms serving both onshore and offshore, further concentrating the business activity of fully integrated OFS firms.

This report gives an overview and analysis of M&A activity in the sector (July 2010–June 2012) and looks at key near-term M&A drivers.

M&A International Inc., with its extensive experience in the energy sector, can help investors on how to make the most of the current trends covered in this report.

Download the report below.

Consult the list of M&A International Inc.'s Energy Industry Specialists here.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 600 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed over 1,400 transactions totaling more than US$85 billion in transaction value in the past five years.

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

TecniKabel and Cable Corporation of India Ltd. join forces

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 10:40:00 +0200

India │ Italy

Cable Corporation of India Ltd. (CCI), a leading Indian manufacturer of power cables, has entered a commercial and industrial joint venture agreement with Italy-based specialty cable producer, TecniKabel Spa.

Family-owned TecniKabel is active in the study, development and production of special cables, with specific applications in the automation and railway sector.

CCI manufactures a wide range of power and control cables for domestic and international markets.

TecniKabel was seeking qualified partners to enter selected emerging markets, with a particular interest in India. The shareholders approached M&A International Inc.’s Italian member, Arietti & Partners, who together with M&A International’s member in India, SBI Capital Markets, introduced CCI. After five months of negotiations, the agreement was signed.

The founder and CEO of TecniKabel, Pier Luigi Garaffi commented: “Arietti & Partners – M&A International Inc. – played a key role in the successful achievement of our project, from the identification of a qualified Indian partner to the negotiation phases and the finalization of the contractual documents. We could not have done this without our advisors’ international experience in corporate finance. We look forward to similar projects in other geographical areas with the support of Arietti & Partners and M&A International Inc."

Dansk Bygningsanalyse AS is acquired by Shield Group International

Fri, 31 Aug 2012 10:46:00 +0200

Denmark │ Netherlands

Shield Group International has acquired Dansk Bygningsanalyse AS (DBA) in a move to enter the Scandinavian market. For DBA, the transaction brings new opportunities by being part of an international group of companies.

Founded in 1988, DBA specializes in technical testing and analyses of indoor climate, fungi, rot and insect attack, fiber, moisture and other critical environmental factors.

Shield Group, part of the Dutch company ACTA, is internationally active in providing consultancy and laboratory services, focusing on the niche markets of testing for substances or organisms that are potentially hazardous to human health, such as asbestos, ceramic fibers and legionella.

Hans van der Wart, CEO at Shield Group’s head office in Rotterdam, Netherlands, commented on the deal, stressing that, “this deal is of significant importance to Shield Group International as we want to move into Scandinavia. Dansk Bygningsanalyse AS specializes in providing high quality safety and environmental monitoring and management solutions, and will broaden and strengthen Shield’s portfolio in Europe according to our strategy.”

Jørgen Fode, who will continue as Director of DBA, added: “There will be no changes in the company's business concept, organization, planning and service providing. I strongly believe that together we and our clients can benefit from future synergy through the new ownership. By joining Shield Group, DBA can grow in Denmark and also enter into other Scandinavian countries. This is an exciting time with lots of opportunities for DBA and its team.”

M&A International Inc.’s Danish member, Audon Partners, was engaged as the strategic and financial advisor to the owner of Dansk Bygningsanalyse AS in connection with the sale of the company. M&A International’s member in the Netherlands, Holland Corporate Finance, assisted with identifying and contacting the final buyer, Shield Group International.

M&A International Inc. Equity Capital Markets: Update for the half-year ended 30 June 2012

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 13:04:00 +0200

20 August 2012. This Equity Capital Markets Update includes expert commentary from M&A International Inc. on the state of selected markets from around the world (UK, USA, Europe, Hong Kong, Singapore and South Africa).

The report covers the six-month period ended 30 June 2012, during which markets have continued to experience volatility caused by uncertainty surrounding the sovereign debt crisis in the Eurozone, which to date continues to remain unsolved. In addition, there has been a slowdown in the growth rates of the Chinese economy, which is one of the key reference economies for accessing the prospects of a global recovery. Despite this, with the exception of Hong Kong and Singapore stock exchanges, the equity capital markets covered in this report experienced an increase in the total funds raised during the six-month period covered, in comparison to the second half of 2011. The report provides details of the activity level within each of the markets reviewed.

Our M&A International Inc. member firms around the world advise and assist companies seeking to raise capital on all the leading stock exchanges.

Download the report below.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 600 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed over 1,400 transactions totaling more than US$85 billion in transaction value in the past five years.

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Thomson Reuters acquires Lex Nova

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 16:40:00 +0200

Spain │ USA

Thomson Reuters Aranzadi, the Spanish arm of Thomson Reuters Corporation, the leading information provider for the world’s businesses and professionals, has acquired Spanish legal and labor information provider Lex Nova.

Based in Vallodolid, Spain, Lex Nova was founded in 1953. The company offers legal information and solutions via a portfolio of subscription and training products.

Thomson Reuters, through its Aranzadi and Jurisoft businesses, has a solid presence in the Spanish market, a market that is still important for many multinational companies despite the current economic situation. This acquisition allows Thomson Reuters to extend its content offering in key areas and strengthen its position as a legal information and software provider. In particular, the add-on gives Thomson Reuters’ clients access to more in-depth information and analysis on changes to Spanish legislature, especially in labor law.

In this cross-border deal, M&A International Inc.’s member in Spain, Closa Merger & Acquisition Advisors, exclusively advised the sellers throughout the acquisition process, which involved closely coordinating teams from Argentina, North America, Europe and Spain.

DCC Healthcare acquires Midsona Manufacturing AB

Sat, 30 Jun 2012 12:36:00 +0200

Ireland │ Sweden

DCC plc, the sales, marketing, distribution and business support services group, has announced that DCC Healthcare has acquired Midsona Manufacturing AB, a subsidiary of Midsona AB.

Midsona Manufacturing AB provides product development, registration, manufacturing and packing services to a range of leading Swedish and international consumer healthcare and health & beauty brand owners. Its product capability includes standard tablets, effervescent tablets, nutritional liquids and sprays, supplied in a variety of packaging formats. The business operates from a licensed facility in Norrköping, south of Stockholm, and has 86 employees. The company will be renamed Vitamex Manufacturing AB and will become part of DCC Health & Beauty Solutions.

In tandem with the acquisition, DCC Health & Beauty Solutions has entered into a supply agreement with the vendor, Midsona AB, a Swedish listed company, whose core activity is the sale and marketing of well-known health and dietary supplements in the Nordic market.

Tommy Breen, Chief Executive of DCC plc, said: "The acquisition of Midsona Manufacturing is in line with DCC Healthcare's strategy to extend its service offering to brand owners in the health & beauty sector and to expand its European customer base."

M&A International Inc.’s member in Sweden, Avantus Corporate Finance, advised DCC plc throughout the acquisition process in collaboration with M&A International’s Irish member, IBI Corporate Finance. IBI Corporate Finance’s past working relationship with DCC plc together with Avantus Corporate Finance's local knowledge of the specific industry combined with execution capabilities were key in securing the mandate. The transaction was the result of a meeting held during M&A International Inc.'s M&A Mid-Market Forum in London in the spring of 2011, which DCC plc attended to discuss and identify cross-border acquisition opportunities in select countries such as Sweden. The seamless cooperation between Avantus Corporate Finance and IBI Corporate Finance throughout the process facilitated efficient execution and negotiations between the client and the vendor, proving once again the value and competitive advantage of M&A International Inc. in cross-border acquisitions.

M&A International Inc. acknowledges the outstanding cooperation between its members at the closing dinner of its 2012 Spring Conference in Berlin, Germany

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 14:30:00 +0200

Berlin, 20 June 2012. Over 160 M&A International Inc. merger and acquisition professionals met in Berlin to attend the 58th M&A International Inc. Conference and the 12th M&A Mid-Market Forum.

The 12th M&A Mid-Market Forum (MMF) hosted on Thursday 14 June by M&A International Inc. (MAI), the world’s leading M&A alliance, attracted over 160 M&A advisors from more than 40 countries to meet with 60-plus clients of our host member Angermann M&A International GmbH and other supporting members. The MMF is part of the M&A International Spring Conference and is specifically designed to network with peers to build relationships, to progress M&A strategy, and to discuss and generate business opportunities through a series of pre-scheduled private meetings. More than 600 pre-arranged one-to-one private meetings were held between strategic minds from the corporate world and M&A professionals from around the globe based on geographical and sector interests.

“The speed-networking format of the M&A Mid-Market Forum is innovative and very efficient. As these meetings are well prepared and relevant information has been exchanged in advance, 20 minutes is enough to discuss opportunities and to decide whether they are worth exploring further. Previous meetings at the MMF have paved the way for many transactions and have set the groundwork for numerous closed transactions and strong business relationships.”

Dr. Hans Bethge
Managing Partner, Angermann M&A International GmbH
The German member firm of M&A International Inc.

The success of the alliance depends greatly on the continued support between its members. To acknowledge outstanding cooperation, M&A International Inc. presented three awards during the closing dinner of the 2012 Spring Conference in Berlin.

The winners of this year’s M&A International Inc. Annual Awards are:

Member of the Year: PrimePartners Corporate Finance Pte Ltd (Singapore)
Deal of the Year: Fondomonte’s sale to Saudi Almarai advised by Landmark Capital S.A. (South America) and IBI Corporate Finance (Ireland)
Industry Group Leaders of the Year: Bill Fawkner-Corbett, Poland Corporate Finance (Poland) and Paul Puri, Capital Alliance Corporation (United States)

As nothing can replace real personal contact, building strong relationships between our members is one of the main goals at our bi-annual conferences. In addition, our industry experts meet to discuss the market and existing opportunities; we exchange expertise and knowledge, introduce marketing tools and focus on best practice. During our conferences, we also learn a lot about the different characteristics and cultures of the other countries and markets. Especially for cross-border transactions, such knowledge is essential.

Another special highlight of the conference was the appearance of the Federal Environment Minister, Peter Altmaier, who came to speak to us during a reception at the Reichstag. His speech encouraged an intense and even controversial discussion with him on the European politics of the German government and the future of Europe.

About Angermann M&A International GmbH
Angermann was established in 1953 as a pioneer of M&A consultancy in Germany and has advised on more than 2,000 transactions involving substantial cross-border activity. With a well-established network of decision makers throughout Germany in most industries including the private equity world and law and accountancy firms, Angermann’s client base consists of national and international publicly listed companies and the German Mittelstand.

A special focus is on cultural bridging between our local and foreign clients and international team building with all M&A International Inc. members. Besides M&A, the Angermann Group includes operations in real estate, business consultancy and auctions. The Angermann Group has offices in Hamburg, Berlin and Stuttgart, staffed by over 130 professionals. www.angermann-ma.de

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 600 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed over 1,400 transactions totaling more than US$85 billion in transaction value in the past five years. www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact: 

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

M&A International Inc. Cosmetics, Jewelry & Accessories Retailers M&A Outlook:  If You Can’t Be Them, Buy Them

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 19:19:00 +0200

13 June 2012. In this industry M&A overview, M&A International Inc. retail specialists expect the high level of M&A activity of 2010 and 2011 to continue in this sector, although appropriate acquisition targets will become scarcer.

Although not entirely immune to the unprecedented economic downturn that rattled world financial markets in 2008–2009, the retail cosmetics, jewelry and accessories industry rebounded much faster than expected. This rebound continued in 2011 as sales surged both in traditional Western markets and the relatively nascent emerging economies despite widespread economic uncertainty around the world. Historically, the cosmetics, jewelry and accessories segment’s sales have closely mirrored those of their luxury segment counterparts, and therefore have been fairly resilient to overall economic woes as the industry’s core consumers generally retain their purchasing power even through a crisis. Most industry participants therefore reaffirm a positive near-term outlook, notwithstanding widespread austerity programs in many key European markets and renewed concerns over a stalling US economic recovery.

This report gives an overview and analysis of M&A activity in the sector (January 2010–March 2012), looks at key near-term M&A drivers and highlights the different M&A strategies.

M&A International Inc., with its extensive experience in the retail sector, can help investors on how to make the most of the current trends covered in this report.  

Download the report below.  

Consult the list of M&A International Inc.'s Retail Industry Specialists here.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 600 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed over 1,400 transactions totaling more than US$85 billion in transaction value in the past five years.

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

NASDAQ OMX acquires BWise B.V.

Thu, 31 May 2012 18:43:00 +0200

Netherlands │ United States

BWise B.V., a Netherlands-based compliance and risk management software provider, has been acquired by The NASDAQ OMX Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: NDAQ), the world’s largest exchange company. The price and terms have not been disclosed.

Established in 1994, BWise offers an industry-leading software solution in the Governance, Risk Management and Compliance (GRC) space. BWise’s solutions have received strong analyst recognition and the Company has been consistently profiled as a leader in Gartner's Magic Quadrant and The Forrester Wave™.

With a market value of over US$4 billion, NASDAQ OMX delivers trading, exchange technology and public company services across six continents. BWise’s GRC platform will be sold through NASDAQ OMX Corporate Solutions, a software technology business dedicated to helping public and private companies minimize risk, maximize efficiency and increase transparency with a suite of governance, investor relations and public relations products.

M&A International Inc.’s members in the USA (TM Capital) and the Netherlands (Holland Corporate Finance) worked together to advise BWise on this transaction. Having been introduced to BWise by Holland Corporate Finance in 2005, TM Capital, with support from Holland Corporate Finance, assisted the Company in evaluating select strategic alternatives and ultimately structuring and negotiating a complex, cross-border transaction with NASDAQ OMX. The acquisition of BWise will enable NASDAQ OMX to further its long-term strategy of offering valuable products and services to publicly listed and private companies.

River Cities Capital Funds sells Galaxy Associates, Inc. to DuBois Chemicals, Inc., a portfolio company of The Riverside Company

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 13:06:00 +0200

United States

DuBois Chemicals, a portfolio company of The Riverside Company, has acquired Galaxy Associates, a portfolio company of River Cities Capital Funds. The price and terms have not been disclosed.

Founded in 2002, Cincinnati, Ohio-based Galaxy Associates is a leading provider of specialty and performance-driven chemicals used in critical processes in the industrial, transportation, and pulp and paper sectors. River Cities, also based in Cincinnati, Ohio, is one of the most active and experienced venture funds investing in the Midwest and Southeastern United States.

Since 1920, DuBois has been providing specialty chemical solutions for the manufacturing industry in North America and is expanding into selected market sectors around the world. The company is committed to building sustainable partnerships with customers that also reduce total cost through the delivery of innovative solutions that are lean, green and clean. This is the fourth acquisition by DuBois since it was acquired in 2008 by Riverside Company, a global private equity firm focused on acquiring growing middle market businesses.

M&A International Inc.’s member in Cleveland, Western Reserve Partners, served as the exclusive investment banker to Galaxy Associates in this transaction. Western Reserve won the mandate with the assistance of a number of M&A International members in Europe and Asia, who helped to identify and vet potential European and Asian buyers during the pitch process. Once engaged, however, the unique strategic fit between Galaxy and Dubois prompted Western Reserve to approach Riverside with the acquisition opportunity on a preemptive, accelerated basis. Riverside was able to be aggressive in terms of timing and valuation, and the transaction closed within 60 days of the initial call. The complementary nature of the two entities provides an outstanding result for Galaxy’s shareholders and a compelling growth platform for the company and its employees.

M&A International Inc. Hospitals and Clinics M&A Outlook: What’s the Prognosis for Deal Making?

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 15:36:00 +0200

4 April 2012. In this industry M&A overview, M&A International Inc. experts see an intriguing secular growth story in the healthcare sector and especially in the hospitals and clinics segment covered in this report.

An aging population, especially in developed economies, coupled with an increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and advances in medical technology should all underpin strong growth in the near term. Meanwhile, austerity measures are forcing providers to find more innovative ways to offer high quality, low-cost healthcare.

M&A International Inc., with its extensive experience in the healthcare sector, can help investors on how to make the most of the current trends covered in this report.

Download the report below.

Consult the list of M&A International Inc.'s Healthcare Industry Specialists here.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 600 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed over 1,400 transactions totaling more than US$85 billion in transaction value in the past five years.

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Donald Russell is acquired by Vestey Food Group

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 11:16:00 +0200

United Kingdom

Donald Russell, the specialist Scottish butcher and mail order meat supplier, renowned for its fine quality butchery and gourmet food, has been sold to Vestey Foods. The price and terms have not been disclosed.

Founded in 1974 and based in Scotland, Donald Russell is a specialist butcher with an unrivaled reputation for the quality of its beef and steaks, which has grown to become the UK's leading mail order butcher. It also holds the Royal Warrant, delivering regularly to the Royal Household.

Vestey Foods Group is a family owned group, comprising thirteen food companies across 70 countries. It specializes in the import, storage and distribution of a wide variety of meat, poultry, fish and other foodstuffs from global suppliers into the various local market places in which it operates.

M&A International Inc.’s member in the UK, Cavendish Corporate Finance, advised the shareholders of Donald Russell on the successful exit of the company. Cavendish ran a competitive sale process using the extensive international network of the M&A International Inc. alliance to identify a wide range of purchasers. The German member of M&A International, Angermann M&A International, introduced Vestey via their German operation and facilitated negotiations throughout the transaction process.

Saudi Almarai acquires Argentina’s Fondomonte from Irish and British investors for US$83 million

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 18:00:00 +0100

Argentina │ Luxembourg │ Saudi Arabia

The shareholders of Fondomonte S.A. have announced the sale of the company’s entire share capital to Saudi Arabia-based Almarai Company Ltd. for approximately US$83 million. As stated by Almarai, this acquisition should help secure feed sources abroad for its cattle and chicken operations and conserve local resources (i.e. water).

Founded in 2006, Fondomonte, a Luxembourg-based holding company specializing in no-tillage farms, owns and operates three farms in Argentina totaling 12,306 hectares, primarily dedicated to corn and soy. The state-of-the-art systems used and its professional management team have allowed Fondomonte to consistently deliver above-average performance.

Fondomonte’s extensive shareholder base was mainly composed of private investors throughout Ireland and the UK, many with agricultural interests. The largest shareholder was the Wexford-based agribusiness Cooney Furlong Grain Company.

Almarai Company, established by its current Chairman, HH Prince Sultan bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Kabeer, is a major integrated consumer food group in the Middle East, with leading market shares in Saudi Arabia and the neighboring Gulf Cooperative Council (GCC) countries.

M&A International Inc.’s members in South America, Landmark Capital S.A., and Ireland, IBI Corporate Finance, co-advised Fondomonte’s shareholders in this transaction. IBI Corporate Finance’s past working relationships with a number of the investors together with Landmark Capital’s local knowledge and execution capabilities were key in securing the mandate. The transaction was closed before new regulation on foreign land ownership was approved in Argentina, which was crucial to the successful closing of the transaction in addition to swift execution in the final stages of the deal.

M&A International Inc. Automotive M&A Outlook: Why Build When You Can Buy?

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 16:20:00 +0100

29 February 2012. In this industry M&A overview, M&A International Inc. experts see two principal drivers of global automotive sector M&A going forward.

First, overcapacity in the BRIC countries may continue to increase, encouraging further industry consolidation to correct supply-demand imbalances. Second, manufacturers must improve their technology to meet emissions requirements and customer demands at an economic price. The easiest solution for many companies is to buy this new technology.

Additional drivers that are likely to underpin M&A include government legislation to create safer, cleaner transport; original equipment manufacturers’ (OEMs) attempts to meet changing market requirements; and the industry’s need to advance technology. Cash rich strategic buyers are also likely to act swiftly to exploit opportunities to inorganically increase their market share in high-growth markets. We forecast heightened M&A activity in China, India, Eastern Europe and Russia in 2012.

M&A International Inc., with its extensive experience in the automotive sector, can help investors on how to make the most of the current trends covered in this report.

Download the report below.

Consult the list of M&A International Inc.'s Automotive Industry Specialists here.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 600 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed over 1,400 transactions totaling more than US$85 billion in transaction value in the past five years.

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

M&A International Inc. Equity Capital Markets: Update for the half-year ended 31 December 2011

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:04:00 +0100

6 February 2012. In this Equity Capital Markets Update, M&A International Inc. experts comment on the state of selected markets from around the world. The report covers the six-month period ended 31 December 2011, during which the markets experienced considerable volatility and investors, on the whole, displayed a risk-averse attitude towards new investment opportunities.

The uncertainty created by the sovereign debt crisis in the Eurozone continued to impact the directions of the markets and resulted in frequent market volatility, often on a daily basis. Against this background, the major equity capital markets around the world experienced significant reductions in the volumes of IPOs, secondary fundraisings and the aggregate amount of capital raised. The report provides details of the activity level in each of the markets reviewed.

Our M&A International Inc. member firms around the world advise and assist companies seeking to raise money on all the leading stock exchanges.

Download the report below.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 600 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed over 1,400 transactions totaling more than US$85 billion in transaction value in the past five years.

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

M&A International Inc. member Holland Corporate Finance wins two industry awards

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:22:00 +0100

February 2012. M&A International Inc. member Holland Corporate Finance has been named ACQ's ‘Best Corporate Finance Advisor Benelux in 2011’, while HCF Debt Advisory received the ACQ Country Award 2011.

The winners of the ACQ Awards are selected by professional industry players who vote in the annual poll conducted by the internationally recognized magazine. Winners are recognized for their excellent performance in M&A, corporate finance and private equity.

About Holland Corporate Finance
Founded in 1997, Holland Corporate Finance is an independent corporate finance firm that provides advisory services to companies for a broad range of merger and acquisition transactions. We are the market leader in the Netherlands in mid-market transactions (€20–400 million in enterprise value) and have built an extensive track record in cross-border transactions in a variety of sectors. Our clients include corporates, family-owned companies, private equity firms and management buy-out teams. Through our subsidiary HCF Small Cap Advisory, we advise on cross-border transactions with an enterprise value of between €5 and €20 million. Through HCF Debt Advisory we support our clients with the (re-)structuring and raising of complex debt funding. www.hollandcorporatefinance.com

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 600 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed over 1,400 transactions totaling more than US$85 billion in transaction value in the past five years.
www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Investor Group acquires Walkro International B.V. from Bencis Capital Partners B.V.

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:13:00 +0100

Belgium │ Ireland │ Netherlands

Monaghan Middlebrook Mushrooms Ltd., the Irish producer and supplier of fresh mushrooms, and Gimv NV, the listed Belgium-based investment company, together with management, have acquired Walkro International B.V. from Bencis Capital Partners B.V. and other shareholders for an undisclosed consideration.

Walkro International produces substrate for mushroom cultivation. Based in Venlo, the Netherlands, the company has additional production facilities in Belgium and Germany.

Monaghan Middlebrook Mushrooms grows and markets mushrooms to leading national and international retailers in Ireland, the UK, Canada and the USA. The company also offers compost yards, growing systems, technical support and packaging services for mushroom growers.

Gimv is an independent investment company listed on Euronext Brussels. The company specializes in private equity and venture capital, focusing mainly on small and medium-sized enterprises in the European market.

Under the terms, Walkro International will continue to operate as an independent unit within the Monaghan Group, led by its existing management team.

M&A International Inc.’s members in Ireland, IBI Corporate Finance, and the Netherlands, Holland Corporate Finance, advised Monaghan Middlebrook Mushrooms on this transaction.

Rosti Group sells Rosti B.V. to Helvoet Holding B.V.

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 09:59:00 +0100

Netherlands │ Sweden

Rosti Group (Rosti) has sold its medical packaging and beverage systems division in the Netherlands, Rosti B.V. (Rosti Nederland), to Helvoet Holding B.V. (Helvoet).

Rosti Nederland, based in Tilburg, is a plastic injection molding and contract manufacturing company active primarily in the life science sector as well as the food and beverage sector. Clients include Roche, Heineken and Delphi Bioscience.

Rosti is a leading manufacturer of high-precision plastic parts and provides related services to customers in the electrical, medical, automotive and food packaging industries. The Rosti Group is an expanding international business, operating six manufacturing plants in China, India, Poland, the UK, Germany and Sweden. Rosti is owned by Nordstjernan, a Swedish family-controlled investment group.

Helvoet is internationally active in the custom-made development and high-precision production of single and assembled plastic and rubber components for the automotive and industrial industries and medical packaging market. Helvoet has operations in Hellevoetsluis (Netherlands), Lommel (Belgium) and Pune (India) with sales departments in Detroit (USA) and Singapore.

Commenting on the transaction, Börje Vernet, CEO of Rosti, said: “As part of our strategic planning for organic growth and acquisitions, we conducted a review of all the businesses in our portfolio and concluded that Rosti Nederland will be better positioned for future growth as part of an organization with a strong market position in the Benelux region. Rosti’s strategic review is now complete, with clear actions for organic growth and plans for acquisitions in our target markets and regions.”

M&A International Inc.’s members in the Netherlands, Holland Corporate Finance, and Sweden, Avantus Corporate Finance, advised Rosti on this transaction. Our members demonstrated once again how they can seamlessly support their client base by delivering professional advice in cross-border divestments. Their local expertise and knowledge were key factors that significantly contributed to maximizing value for the client.

M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance ranked No. 1 financial advisor for seventh year in a row

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 02:30:00 +0100

December 2011. M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance has been ranked as the No. 1 financial advisor in Ireland in the annual review of international mergers and acquisitions activity by specialist M&A publisher, Mergermarket. This is the seventh successive year that IBI has been ranked No. 1.

IBI topped the league table for the number of transactions on which it advised with a total of 14 qualifying deals with a cumulative deal value of US$3.5bn in 2011. The company was also ranked top in 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006 and 2005.

Innovative advice
 Commenting on the announcement, Tom Godfrey, IBI Chief Executive, said: "We are delighted that IBI's track record of providing innovative corporate finance advice has been acknowledged independently. Mergermarket's analysis shows that IBI consistently advises on more announced deals in Ireland than any other financial advisor.

Cross-border deals involving buyers and targets from the UK, US, Belgium, Netherlands, Canada and Bulgaria accounted for 64% of IBI’s total in the last year, reflecting the open nature of the Irish economy and the strength of IBI’s international reach.

While market conditions remain extremely difficult, we envisage that 2012 will bring further complex and strategically significant transactions for our clients."

About Mergermarket
Mergermarket covers corporate finance activity in Europe, North America, Latin America and the Asia-Pacific region. Mergermarket generates proprietary intelligence and delivers it, together with daily aggregated content, on its www.mergermarket.com platform.

About IBI Corporate Finance
IBI Corporate Finance is Ireland's leading corporate finance advisor, providing expert, independent advice. It acts for public, private and semi-state companies covering a wide spectrum of domestic and international transactions.

IBI Corporate Finance is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Bank of Ireland Group and is the Irish member of M&A International Inc.

IBI Corporate Finance Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
www.ibicorporatefinance.ie

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 500 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed over 1,400 transactions totaling more than US$85 billion in transaction value in the past five years.
www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Radical Sportscars sells a minority stake to private individuals

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 12:53:00 +0100

Germany │ United Kingdom

Radical Sportscars Ltd (Radical) has sold a minority stake to a consortium of high net worth individuals. The transaction values Radical at US$47 million.

Radical is a leading global player in the leisure sports car and motorsports market. It produces around 230 cars a year, making it the second largest manufacturer by volume of purpose-built racing cars in the world, just behind Porsche. Radical enjoys significant recurring revenue from its own single-marque race series in countries around the world, its spare parts business and large existing customer base.

Radical recently surprised the automotive world with the launch of a fully road legal version of its racing car at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. It has also been named as the vehicle supplier for a motorsport version of the IPL called i1 Super Series, which will launch in December 2011, and counts Sachin Tendulkar amongst its backers.

The identity of the new investors has not been disclosed but they include a private family office and an industry expert. Their investment will support the future expansion of the business as well as provide an exit for one of the founders of the business, who has retired, and for certain minority interests.

M&A International Inc.’s members in the UK (Cavendish Corporate Finance) and Germany (Angermann M&A International) advised Radical on securing the investment, with Cavendish coordinating the process and Angermann identifying and introducing one of the new investors.

Indian corporates meet M&A International Inc. members to discuss business opportunities during the Cross-Border M&A Forum India

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 09:56:00 +0100

Mumbai, 23 November 2011. The first Cross-Border M&A Forum held on Friday 18 November by M&A International Inc. (MAI), the world’s leading M&A alliance, attracted over 120 M&A advisors from more than 40 countries to meet with 80-plus Indian clients of our host member SBI Capital Markets.

Top business houses from all over India attended the Forum together with over 120 M&A professionals who have the experience and know-how to help clients explore and progress their M&A objectives. More than 750 pre-arranged one-to-one private meetings were held between strategic minds from the corporate world and M&A professionals from around the globe based on geographical and sector interests.

Indian companies have moved beyond Indian shores, establishing a global presence and increasingly looking for M&A opportunities. The country also continues to be one of the world’s most attractive investment destinations, driven by progressive government policies, strong macro-economic fundamentals, accelerated infrastructure development and planned industrial capacity additions.

“Corporate India is showing greater interest in acquiring entities in Europe as valuations currently are pretty attractive due to the ongoing debt crisis and a slowdown in these economies," said Rajeev Krishnan, President and Chief Operating Officer of SBI Capital Markets.

The Cross-Border M&A Forum was the perfect platform to lay the foundations of future business relationships between Indian companies and M&A boutiques from around the globe.

About SBI Capital Markets, the Indian member of M&A International Inc.
SBI CAPITAL MARKETS LIMITED (SBICAPS) is India's leading investment bank and project advisor, assisting domestic companies’ fund-mobilization efforts for many years. Foreseeing the changing needs of clients in a rapidly opening economy, SBICAPS has evolved an array of advisory services in almost all sectors of the economy over the years. With its team of qualified and dedicated professionals and sector experts with domain knowledge, SBICAPS offers a wide suite of financial advisory services covering areas like project advisory & fund mobilization, structured debt placement, capital markets- equity & debt, mergers & acquisitions, private equity and stressed assets resolution. www.sbicaps.com

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 500 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed over 1,400 transactions totaling more than US$85 billion in transaction value in the past five years. www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact: 

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

M&A International Inc. member Cavendish Corporate Finance wins Corporate Finance Boutique of the Year

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 14:58:00 +0100

November 2011. M&A International Inc. member Cavendish Corporate Finance LLP was named Corporate Finance Boutique of the Year at the Private Equity News Awards held in London's Great Connaught Rooms on Wednesday 9 November.

Howard Leigh, Senior Partner at Cavendish, accepted the award at the dinner attended by 300 of the industry's most prominent practitioners. In a competitive category, Cavendish were recognized specifically for their role in the sale of the Stewart Group to management and ECI Partners.

The award marks the end of a strong week for Cavendish comprising the exchange of three transactions including the proposed sale of Marsh & Parsons, the London-based estate agents, to LSL Property Services plc, and the sale of a significant equity stake alongside an investment in Timothy James Consulting from Hamilton Bradshaw, the private equity arm of former Dragons' Den star James Caan.

This award cements Cavendish's reputation as the pre-eminent sell-side M&A boutique in the UK having also been named 'Independent Corporate Finance House of the Year' in the Acquisitions Monthly 2011 Awards and Corporate Deal of the Year and Boutique Investment Bank of the Year at the Europe M&A Atlas Awards.

Howard Leigh commented: "This is a great end to a strong year for Cavendish, especially coming at the end of such a successful week.

Cavendish has continued to perform well in some challenging market conditions. We have recruited significantly this year and it is our intention to continue to do so and reinforce our position as the UK's leading M&A firm, focusing exclusively on sell-side mandates."

About Cavendish Corporate Finance
Cavendish Corporate Finance is the UK’s leading independent firm advising exclusively on sell-side M&A to mid-market companies. Founded in 1988, we have advised on some 400 company sales with an aggregate value in excess of £3 billion. Our clients include private companies, financial institutions and fully listed public companies with typical transactions falling broadly within the £10 million to £200 million 'mid-market' value range.

Cavendish is unique in that it has only ever acted for vendors of businesses and, as a result, has built up an unrivalled specialist expertise in managing the company sale process. Cavendish also offers exit planning and equity fundraising services. As a member of M&A International Inc., we have particular experience in advising on cross-border M&A transactions.
www.cavendish.com

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 600 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed over 1,400 transactions totaling more than US$85 billion in transaction value in the past five years.
www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact:

  M&A International Inc.
 Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net 
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Valindus acquires ALUK Group

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 12:13:00 +0100

France │ Italy

Valindus has acquired a controlling stake in ALUK Group through a leveraged buy-out financed by MedioCredito Italiano and Banca IMI.

Valindus is a holding that is 100% controlled by the Vidal-Revel family. Valindus produces and distributes aluminum and PVC systems for windows and doors. The group is also active in the photovoltaic and real estate industries.

ALUK Group, based in San Giovanni Lupatoto (Verona), produces aluminum windows, door profiles and accessories, with business in Italy, China, UAE and the Balkans.

M&A International Inc.’s members in France (Aelios Finance) and Italy (Arietti & Partners) assisted Valindus in defining its acquisition strategy and identifying the target as well as advising the client on negotiating the financing and shareholders agreements for this transaction.

M&A International Inc. Technology M&A Outlook: Has the Era of Irrational Exuberance Returned?

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 16:31:00 +0200

6 October 2011. In this industry M&A overview, M&A International Inc. experts stress the importance for investors to have a correct picture of the market in these uncertain times.

We see heightened investor excitement and a renewed focus on technology driving M&A activity in the sector, with strategic as well as financial investors becoming increasingly interested in growing through M&A. With the overall technology sector now gaining pace, it is crucial for players to move forward in order not to be left behind.

M&A International Inc., with its extensive experience in the technology sector, can help investors on how to make the most of the current trends covered in this report, which we believe will be the key themes in the coming months.

Download the report below.

Consult the list of M&A International Inc.'s Technology Industry Specialists here.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 500 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed over 1,400 transactions totaling more than US$85 billion in transaction value in the past five years.

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Vention Medical, Inc. acquires Ansamed Ltd

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 10:57:00 +0200

Ireland │ USA

Vention Medical, Inc. (Vention), a leading full-service medical device outsourcing company, has acquired Ansamed Ltd, Ireland's premier provider of advanced medical tubing solutions.

Vention is an innovative medical device solutions partner offering clients more than 30 years of experience in all phases of design, engineering, component manufacturing and finished device assembly. Vention specializes in components and services used in interventional and minimally invasive products, including medical balloons and heat shrink tubing, clean room injection molding, and assembly and packaging services.

Ansamed focuses on advanced medical tubing solutions, including multi-layer, co-extrusion and multi-lumen extrusion capabilities, and catheter design, development and manufacturing services.

The acquisition of Ansamed will expand Vention's capabilities in the development and manufacturing of specialty catheter-based devices used in a range of interventional and surgical procedures. Ansamed's technology and breadth of experience in extrusion and braided tubing will add to Vention’s strong portfolio of capabilities in balloons, shrink tubing and catheter assembly. In addition, Ansamed will establish a strategic presence for Vention in Ireland and serve as a base for further European and international expansion.

M&A International Inc.’s members in the USA, TM Capital, and in Ireland, IBI Corporate Finance, advised Vention on this transaction. Vention is a long-standing client of TM Capital, who previously represented the company in its recapitalization with KRG Capital, a Denver, Colorado-based private equity firm currently investing a $2 billion investment fund. TM Capital solicited the assistance of IBI Corporate Finance to identify acquisition candidates for Vention in Ireland. IBI Corporate Finance introduced Vention to Ansamed providing early access to the company and its management team. TM Capital and IBI Corporate Finance assisted Vention in valuing Ansamed, as well as structuring and negotiating the transaction in a highly competitive process.

Dan Croteau, CEO of Vention, said, "Partnering with the Ansamed team is an extraordinary opportunity for us to further strengthen Vention’s ability to deliver innovative components and cost-effective supply chain solutions to our medical device customers. The acquisition of Ansamed affirms our commitment to invest in leading minimally invasive technologies. They will be a great addition to our team."

M&A International Inc. Electrical Installation Services M&A Outlook: Making the Right Connections

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 16:31:00 +0200

21 September 2011. In this industry M&A overview, M&A International experts believe the industry will rebound in the near future.

M&A activity in the electrical services sector should rebound in the near term following the recovery in broader construction industry M&A. Companies have shifted from cutting costs and rebuilding their balance sheets to taking a more proactive approach to M&A in order to better position themselves strategically. The catalysts for future M&A activity should include: geographical expansion, emerging economies, vertical integration, non-traditional buyers and energy efficiency.

Download the report below.

Consult the list of M&A International Inc.'s Business Support Services Industry Specialists here.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 500 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed over 1,400 transactions totaling more than US$85 billion in transaction value in the past five years.

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Maabarot Products Ltd. acquires Laboratoria Natury

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 16:49:00 +0200

Israel │ Poland

Maabarot Products Ltd. has acquired a 100% stake in Laboratoria Natury Sp. z o.o for US$4.5 million.

Maabarot Products Ltd. and its subsidiaries manufacture and market a broad range of products including baby food, pet food, vitamins, nutritional supplements and organic food. Based in Israel, the company sells its products in Turkey, Cyprus, Italy, Uzbekistan and India. It also exports to Europe, the United States and the Far East.

Polish firm Laboratoria Natury Sp. z o.o is active in the development, manufacture and marketing of food supplements, vitamins and minerals (VMS). The company specializes in aloe-based preparations, supplying wholesalers, pharmacies and herbal stores as well as some hypermarkets and supermarkets. Laboratoria’s export markets include Hungary, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Lithuania, Croatia, Serbia, Romania and Bulgaria.

M&A International Inc.’s Israeli and Polish members, Rosario Capital and Poland Corporate Finance, collaborated closely on this transaction. Rosario Capital advised Maabarot Products Ltd. on the acquisition process, initiating the transaction and running a structured international search with the full involvement of M&A International Inc.’s members. After having identified a Polish transaction target, Poland Corporate Finance and Rosario Capital jointly concluded the process, originating the contact with the seller, collecting information, advising on valuation, coordinating the due diligence and advising on the negotiations.

Sony acquires Hawk-Eye

Sun, 31 Jul 2011 10:27:00 +0200

Japan │ United Kingdom Sony has acquired Hawk-Eye Innovations Ltd, one of the world's best known and most credible sports technology providers. Hawk-Eye will be integrated into Sony Professional Solutions, which supplies cameras and production equipment to broadcasters and sports venues. Hawk-Eye was founded by Dr. Paul Hawkins to provide a ball tracking and graphics solution to enhance the broadcasting of cricket starting in 2001 followed by tennis in 2002. It was acquired by Mark Getty in 2006 and has since experienced strong growth as more events have adopted Hawk-Eye. Sony is a global leader in providing products, solutions and services for professional use in the areas of broadcast & media, video security CCTV, 4K & 3D digital cinema, business projectors, public displays & digital signage, and medicine amongst others. M&A International Inc.’s UK member, Cavendish Corporate Finance, advised the owner of Hawk-Eye, Mark Getty, on the sale process. This was run on a global basis through seamless cooperation with M&A International Inc.’s members. Offers were received from a number of multibillion-dollar corporations with Sony emerging as the preferred bidder. Paul Hawkins, the founder of Hawk-Eye, said: “Over the last decade, Hawk-Eye has become the reference standard technology for ball tracking and graphics in tennis, cricket and snooker. Our skills and established knowledge coupled with Sony's breadth of capabilities and technologies will create immense opportunities for the sports industry. Cavendish played a crucial role both in achieving a good result for shareholders and in enabling Hawk-Eye to go to the buyer offering the most compelling strategic fit.”

Bank of Ireland Group sells Bank of Ireland Securities Services to Northern Trust

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 10:27:00 +0200

Ireland │ United States

Bank of Ireland Group has sold Bank of Ireland Securities Services (BoISS) to Northern Trust for a total consideration of up to US$87 million in an all-cash agreement.

Bank of Ireland Securities Services is a fund administration, investment operations outsourcing and custody business. BoISS has over ten years of experience in the European Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) market and was recently named Best European ETF Service Provider at the Global ETF AWARDS® for the fourth consecutive year.

Northern Trust Corporation (Nasdaq: NTRS) is a leading provider of investment management, asset and fund administration, banking solutions and fiduciary services for corporations, institutions and affluent individuals worldwide. Northern Trust, a financial holding company based in Chicago, has offices in 18 US states and 16 international locations in North America, Europe, the Middle East and the Asia Pacific region.

M&A International Inc.’s Irish member, IBI Corporate Finance Limited, advised Bank of Ireland Group throughout the sale process.

M&A International Inc. expands its global footprint with representation in 41 countries

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 12:20:00 +0200

London, 12 June 2011. M&A International Inc., the world’s leading M&A alliance, is pleased to announce it has further expanded its global footprint with the admission of three new member firms: Petercam S.A. (Brussels, Belgium), SIGMAXYZ Inc. (Tokyo, Japan) and Synergis Capital Inc. (Montreal, Canada).

For M&A International Inc., the admission of these firms represents a major step forward in its ability to advise clients on a global basis through its 47 members operating in 41 countries. These members were admitted at M&A International’s Spring Conference held in London, which was attended by over 200 M&A professionals.

The success of the alliance depends greatly on the continued support between its members. To acknowledge outstanding cooperation, M&A International Inc. presented three awards during the closing dinner of the 2011 Spring Conference at the Tower of London.

The winners of this year’s M&A International Inc. Annual Awards are:

Member of the Year: Angermann M&A International GmbH
Industry Group Member of the Year: Brad Adams, TM Capital Corp.
Deal of the Year: Danstoker A/S's sale to Thermax Limited advised by Audon Partners A/S and SBI Capital Markets Limited

About our new members

PETERCAM S.A.
A first class independent financial group, we are present in particular in the Benelux region. Petercam is active in three main areas of business: private banking and institutional asset management, sales & brokerage for institutional investors and corporate finance. In Belgium, Petercam is recognized as a prime corporate finance house for domestic or cross-border M&A and equity capital market transactions. Petercam is a truly independent partnership, with some 450 employees mainly within the Benelux.

Website: www.petercam.be
Location: Brussels, Belgium

SIGMAXYZ Inc.
A strategic consulting and M&A advisory services firm comprised of 250+ seasoned professionals that assist our clients and business partners to create value and sustainable competitive advantage. We are advisors to Japan’s blue-chip companies, Korean as well, but also work extensively with many of the newer, small-to-mid sized companies that are growing rapidly. The members of our M&A team have extensive experience in both domestic and cross-border deals and have closed transactions as small as US$5 million and as large as US$3.4 billion. We are based in Tokyo, Japan in an office that has won awards and press coverage for its innovative, open design. Our majority shareholder is Mitsubishi Corporation, Japan’s largest corporation and a major investor in markets throughout the world.

Website: www.sigmaxyz.com
Location: Tokyo, Japan

Synergis Capital Inc.
Synergis Capital delivers the highest quality, value-added merger, acquisition and related corporate finance advisory services for medium sized transactions. Based in Montreal, the firm was founded by a seasoned team of industry professionals that have advised some of the leading venture capital funds, private & public companies, as well as their Boards and shareholders. Synergis’ dynamic team and structure enable us to respond quickly and deliver outstanding results for our clients. Synergis Capital is one of a select few independent corporate finance firms in the country to deliver truly local and global transaction capabilities, tailored to the specificities of the middle market.

Website: www.synergiscapital.com
Location: Montreal, Canada

About M&A International Inc. 
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 500 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed over 1,400 transactions totaling more than US$85 billion in transaction value in the past five years. www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact: 

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Coveright sells its Spanish subsidiary to Sherpa Capital

Tue, 31 May 2011 13:59:00 +0200

Germany │ Spain

Coveright Surfaces Holding GmbH (Coveright) has sold all shares in Coveright Surfaces Spain S.A.U. to the Spanish investment fund Sherpa Capital.

The Coveright Group is a leading manufacturer of impregnated paper used in surfaces for furniture, flooring, buildings, derived timber products and motor vehicles. The company’s headquarters are in Essen, Germany with production facilities in Europe and America. The sale of the Spanish operation forms part of a divestiture program across the company's international divisions. Parallel to this divestment, agreements have been made on technology transfer and the continued use of the company name Coveright Spain. The new owners will also continue to run the company under existing management.

M&A International Inc.'s German member, Angermann M&A International GmbH, advised the Coveright Group on the sale process with the support of M&A International Inc.’s Spanish member Closa Merger & Acquisition Advisors, who identified the buyer. Having also advised on the divestment of the Malaysian (2009) and the Russian (2010) subsidiary, this is the third cross-border transaction M&A International Inc. has closed for Coveright in two years.

Kneipp France acquires Pierre Cattier

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 11:29:00 +0200

France │ Germany

Kneipp France, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Kneipp Group (Würzburg, Germany), has acquired the French natural cosmetics manufacturer Pierre Cattier.

Dietmar Salein, Managing Director of the Kneipp Group, and Daniel Aressy, the owner of Pierre Cattier, signed the purchase agreement for the acquisition of all shares on 29 March 2011. The closing and the share transfer are expected to take place on 1 July 2011. Kneipp France and Pierre Cattier will then merge into one company and continue to operate under the name Pierre Cattier in France. The new company will be led by Cattier’s Managing Director Alexis Fort and will market both product lines.

Pierre Cattier has been producing and marketing certified natural cosmetics since 1968. Cattier products are organic cosmetics with no parabens, synthetic dyes or fragrances, and no paraffin oil.

The Kneipp brand is synonymous with effective, innovative and natural product concepts for health and well-being based on the holistic teachings of Sebastian Kneipp. Natural healing competence and pharmaceutical experience, modern manufacturing methods and careful scientific control ensure the quality of the Kneipp products for bath and body care, herbal drugs and dietary supplements. The Kneipp Group, headquartered in Würzburg, operates worldwide and is a wholly owned subsidiary of PAUL HARTMANN AG, Heidenheim. The company is looking to further strengthen its position in Germany and internationally by means of acquisitions. Kneipp’s strategic rationale for this particular transaction was to expand its know-how in organic cosmetics, to get better access to the French pharmacy market and to market the brand Pierre Cattier worldwide.

M&A International Inc.'s German member, Angermann M&A International GmbH, advised the Kneipp Group on the acquisition process by initiating the transaction and running a structured international search in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and France with the support of M&A International Inc.’s members Binder Corporate Finance and Aelios Finance. After having identified a French transaction target, Angermann and Aelios jointly concluded the process from originating the contact with the seller, reviewing the documentation, coordinating the due diligence and advising on the negotiations through to the successful closing of the transaction in July 2011.

M&A International Inc. Wine Industry M&A Outlook

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 14:41:00 +0200

15 April 2011. In this Wine Industry M&A Overview "Will 2011 and 2012 Be Good Vintages?", M&A International experts believe the industry will enjoy a positive outlook over the next two years.

The last few years have been challenging for the wine industry. Companies have had to overcome the supply glut, weaker demand and increasing cost pressures. With supply/demand dynamics expected to achieve equilibrium in the near term, we expect the wine industry to enjoy a very positive outlook over the next two years. During the past 3-5 years, value offers from New World countries, strong demand from Asia Pacific, renewed interest in home consumption and increased online sales have fundamentally changed the way in which the industry operates. At the same time, producers and distributors remain adversely affected by slow growth in sales and consumption. Nevertheless, these factors together with an expected reduction in supply, projected economic recovery in developed countries and the industry's increasing penetration in emerging markets justify our optimistic assessment concerning the industry's long-term growth.

Download the report below.

Consult the list of M&A International Inc.'s Food & Beverage Industry Specialists here.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled, global resources of over 500 M&A professionals operating in every major financial center of the world. We are closely linked and together we advise our clients on acquisitions, divestitures and financing. We have closed over 1,400 transactions totaling more than US$85 billion in transaction value in the past five years.

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Paddy Power acquires remaining minority shareholding in Sportsbet

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 09:22:00 +0200

Australia │ Ireland

Paddy Power plc has purchased the remaining 39.2% minority shareholdings in Sportsbet Pty Limited for US$134 million.

Paddy Power completed the acquisition of its initial 51% shareholding in Sportsbet in July 2009. Sportsbet subsequently acquired International All Sports Limited in October 2009 and Paddy Power increased its stake in Sportsbet to 60.8% in February 2010. Under the terms of the original acquisition, Paddy Power held a call option to increase its shareholding in Sportsbet to 100%, exercisable in either 2012 or 2013.

Sportsbet Pty Limited is an Australian licensed sports bookmaker. It accepts wagers on Australian and international horse, harness and greyhound racing as well as all types of local and international sporting, political and entertainment events.

Paddy Power is the largest provider of online betting and gaming services in Ireland and a leading provider of such services in the UK. Operations are divided between online, retail and telephone services to customers in Ireland and the UK.

The acquisition of the remaining 39.2% of Sportsbet now provides Paddy Power with increased exposure to the growing regulated Australian online market and the opportunity to take complete control of the business, drive development and investment, and secure full participation in the anticipated upside of this business.

Commenting on the acquisition, Patrick Kennedy, Paddy Power's Chief Executive, said: "When we acquired 51% of Sportsbet in 2009, we were confident that we were investing in a business with strong potential in a growing market. That confidence has been borne out and some: it's a cracking business. The team has made great strides in marrying the best of both Sportsbet and Paddy Power. This is a good deal to acquire the remaining shares early, which will allow us to drive development and investment and secure full participation in the upside of the business."

M&A International Inc.'s Irish member, IBI Corporate Finance, advised Paddy Power plc on the acquisition process, having also advised the company on its initial majority stake acquisition in 2009 alongside M&A International Inc.'s Australian member, Baron Partners, in an excellent example of seamless service by M&A International Inc. members. By virtue of the size of the transaction and also because the deal involved related parties, Paddy Power plc was required to obtain shareholder approval in accordance with the Irish and UK Listing Rules. IBI acted as sponsor to Paddy Power plc in this regard and the acquisition was overwhelmingly approved.

Bidvest Group acquires Seafood Holdings Limited

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 17:57:00 +0100

South Africa │ United Kingdom

Bidvest, the diversified industrial company, has acquired 100% of the share capital of Seafood Holdings Limited for an enterprise value of US$69.25 million.

Seafood Holdings is the UK’s leading supplier of fresh fish to the food service sector. Principal activities include the procurement, preparation and distribution of fresh fish, frozen fish, shellfish and other seafood to hotels, restaurants, pub chains, contract caterers, sports stadiums, schools and government buildings.

Bidvest is a diversified industrial company, listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange South Africa, and is one of the largest global food service distribution companies. Bidvest food service interests include 3663 First for Foodservice, one of the largest food service distributors in the UK and Bidvest Logistics, the leading logistics supplier to national UK food service operators and fast food chains. Additionally, Bidvest owns national food service distributors in Australia, Belgium, greater China, Czech Republic, Dubai, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovakia and South Africa.

M&A International Inc.’s UK member, Cavendish Corporate Finance advised Risk Capital Partners and Toby Baxendale, Seafood Holdings’ founder and Chief Executive on its successful sale to Bidvest Group. Cavendish ran a structured competitive process, which was specifically developed to accommodate a number of international trade purchasers, including acquirors from South America and the Far East. The transaction was concluded with Bidvest within two weeks of agreeing terms. Key to the success of the transaction was the involvement of M&A International’s South African member, Grindrod Bank, which used its strong local network and standing in the South African business community to introduce the target to Bidvest at a senior level.

Rexel acquires Nortel Suprimentos Industriais SA

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 17:36:00 +0100

Brazil │ France

The French multinational Rexel, a global leader in the distribution of electrical supplies, has acquired Nortel Suprimentos Industriais SA, a key player in the distribution of electrical and industrial equipment in Brazil. With this acquisition, Rexel gains a significant foothold in the Brazilian market and creates a platform to build a leading position in the country.

Rexel is a French listed company, present in 34 countries around the world, with 2010 net sales close to US$16.3 billion. It is a world leader in the distribution of electrical equipment and solutions in the residential, industrial and commercial markets, distributing products such as installation equipment, cables, conduits and lighting.

Nortel Suprimentos Industriais SA is a leader in the Brazilian market for the distribution of electric and safety equipment, tools, industrial panels and industrial automation. With 40 branches in Brazil, it had an estimated net revenue of US$150 million in 2010.

M&A International Inc.’s Brazilian member Stratus Group acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Rexel, executing the financial models, advising in the negotiations, coordinating due diligence, reviewing documentation and coordinating all steps through to closing.

Guillaume Chainer, Rexel’s Head of M&A, commented: "Stratus provided invaluable help at every step of our deal, from originating the contacts with the sellers to the closing of the transaction. Stratus has proved to be a trusted advisor especially as Rexel had no presence in Brazil to support the acquisition team.”

M&A International Inc. member Holland Corporate Finance wins two industry awards

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 17:38:00 +0100

January 2011. M&A International Inc. member Holland Corporate Finance has been named ‘Best M&A Advisor Mid-Market’ in the 11th edition of the Dutch M&A Awards. HCF Debt Advisory received the ‘ACQ Country Award’. These awards were announced in December 2010.

The winners of the 2010 M&A Awards were awarded for their excellent performances in M&A, corporate finance and private equity. 500 M&A professionals attended the yearly gathering of the Dutch M&A community.

Carmen Allan, Head of the Judging Panel for ACQ Magazine, commented: “As the ACQ Country Awards are so well-recognized, it’s no wonder we received so many nominations. It certainly was difficult choosing the best firms but I think the judges came up with a list that reflects those who are performing superbly in their industry.”

voted in the poll. Guided by the poll’s results, ACQ’s editors selected those firms and individuals they thought had had the greatest impact on the industry in respective countries during 2008 / 2009.

About Holland Corporate Finance
Founded in 1997, Holland Corporate Finance is an independent corporate finance firm that provides advisory services to companies for a broad range of merger and acquisition transactions. We are the market leader in the Netherlands in mid-market transactions (€20–400 million in enterprise value) and have built an extensive track record in cross-border transactions in a variety of sectors. Our clients include corporates, family-owned companies, private equity firms and management buy-out teams. Through our subsidiary HCF Small Cap Advisory, we advise on cross-border transactions with an enterprise value of between €5 and €20 million. Through HCF Debt Advisory we support our clients with the (re-)structuring and raising of complex debt funding.
www.hollandcorporatefinance.com

About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled resources of over 500 professionals in 45 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 40 countries. All our members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. In 2009, our members closed 224 transactions worth $20.4 billion.
www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Time/system acquires SRT International

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 16:46:00 +0100

Netherlands │ Switzerland

Time/system International AG has successfully acquired SRT International B.V. from Friesland Bank Investments and management.

Time/system is a leading European manufacturer of personal organizers, printed in 10 different languages and sold in more than 20 countries. Time/system also sells pocket diaries, meeting books and leather stationery, and has its own production facilities in Asia.

SRT is the owner of a number of leading brands including Succes Agenda and Ryam, and is a major distributor of a broad range of diaries and stationery to European retailers.

The combination of Time/system and SRT will enable both companies to offer a wider range of products across a much broader international distribution platform.

M&A International Inc.’s Finnish and Dutch members – Merasco Capital Ltd. and Holland Corporate Finance – jointly executed this transaction. Time/system had appointed Merasco to seek international acquisition targets and Merasco asked Holland Corporate Finance to approach SRT. During the transaction process Holland Corporate Finance acted as local contact and process coordinator for Time/system. This transaction is another example of the successful cooperation between members of the M&A International alliance.

M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance ranked No. 1 financial advisor for sixth year in a row

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 11:52:00 +0100

December 2010. M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance has been ranked as the No. 1 financial advisor in Ireland in the annual review of international mergers and acquisitions activity by specialist M&A publisher, Mergermarket. This is the sixth successive year that IBI has been ranked No. 1 and follows IBI’s recent achievement of the Mergermarket/Financial Times 2010 Financial Advisor of the Year – Ireland award.

IBI topped the league table for the number of transactions on which it advised with a total of eight qualifying deals with a cumulative deal value of US$4.1 billion in 2010. The company was also ranked top in 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006 and 2005.

Innovative advice

Commenting on the announcement, Roisin Brennan, IBI Executive Chairman, said: “We are delighted that IBI’s track record of providing innovative corporate finance advice has been acknowledged independently. Mergermarket’s analysis shows that IBI consistently advises on more announced deals in Ireland than any other financial advisor.”

About Mergermarket
Mergermarket covers corporate finance activity in Europe, North America, Latin America and the Asia-Pacific region. Mergermarket generates proprietary intelligence and delivers it, together with daily aggregated content, on its www.mergermarket.com platform.

About IBI Corporate Finance
IBI Corporate Finance is Ireland's leading corporate finance advisor, providing expert, independent advice. It acts for public, private and semi-state companies covering a wide spectrum of domestic and international transactions.

IBI Corporate Finance is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Bank of Ireland Group and is the Irish member of M&A International Inc. IBI Corporate Finance Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
www.ibicorporatefinance.ie

About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled resources of over 500 professionals in 45 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 40 countries. All our members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. In 2009, our members closed 224 transactions worth $20.4 billion. www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

M&A International Inc. member Cavendish Corporate Finance LLP wins three industry awards

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 18:56:00 +0100

December 2010. M&A International Inc. member Cavendish Corporate Finance LLP has been named ‘Independent Corporate Finance House of the Year’ in the Acquisitions Monthly 2011 Awards which is widely acknowledged as the M&A industry's premier award. The awards were announced on 9 December 2010. The award was in recognition of Cavendish's role in the sales of: a majority stake in Yorkshire-based commercial laundry service provider JLA; retail emporium Liberty Plc; Kent County Crematorium PLC; and the Royal Berkshire Shooting School.

This comes a day after Cavendish received the ‘Corporate Deal of the Year’ and ‘Boutique Investment Bank of the Year’ awards at the Europe M&A Atlas Awards ceremony held at Le Meridien Piccadilly in London on Wednesday 8 December. Cavendish was nominated for its role in the sale of Gü Rensow Ltd to Noble Foods Ltd.

Cavendish's Senior Partner Howard Leigh commented: “This is a tremendous end to a successful year for Cavendish. These awards were announced the same day as our client, Focus Solutions Group Plc, a listed company, announced a transaction with Standard Life for £42 million. We have ambitious plans to develop our business in the coming years, and remain strongly focused on maintaining our position as the UK's leading independent firm advising exclusively on sell side M&A.”

About Cavendish Corporate Finance LLP
For full details on other recent transactions, please visit www.cavendish.com

For further information contact:

Howard Leigh, Senior Partner, hleigh@cavendish.com
Virginia Mackie, Marketing Manager, vmackie@cavendish.com
on +44 (0) 207 908 6000

About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled resources of over 500 professionals in 45 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 40 countries. All our members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. In 2009, our members closed 224 transactions worth $20.4 billion.
www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance awarded 2010 "Financial Advisor of the Year" for Ireland at the Financial Times and Mergermarket Group European M&A Awards

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 19:10:00 +0100

December 2010. M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance has been awarded 2010 Financial Advisor of the Year for Ireland at the Financial Times and Mergermarket Group European M&A Awards. Awards are given in recognition of financial mergers and acquisitions (M&A) expertise and excellence.

This prestigious award follows on from five successive years in which IBI Corporate Finance was ranked No. 1 financial advisor in Ireland by deal volume in the annual review of international M&A activity by specialist M&A publisher, Mergermarket Group.

Variety and complexity

Commenting on the announcement, Róisín Brennan, IBI Executive Chairman, said: “We are delighted that the leading position of IBI Corporate Finance in the Irish financial advisory market has been recognized independently. IBI consistently advises on more transactions in Ireland than any other financial advisor based on Mergermarket’s analysis. The variety and complexity of IBI’s clients’ deals are also noteworthy – cross-border deals accounted for 70% of IBI’s total in the last year, reflecting the open nature of the Irish economy, and IBI’s deals were spread over the energy, financial services, food & beverage, healthcare, distribution and technology industries.”

About Mergermarket
Mergermarket covers corporate finance activity in Europe, North America, Latin America and the Asia-Pacific region. Mergermarket generates proprietary intelligence and delivers it, together with daily aggregated content, on its www.mergermarket.com platform.

About IBI Corporate Finance
IBI Corporate Finance is Ireland's leading corporate finance advisor, providing expert, independent advice. It acts for public, private and semi-state companies covering a wide spectrum of domestic and international transactions.

IBI Corporate Finance is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Bank of Ireland Group and is the Irish member of M&A International Inc. IBI Corporate Finance Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
www.ibicorporatefinance.ie

About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled resources of over 500 professionals in 45 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 40 countries. All our members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. In 2009, our members closed 224 transactions worth $20.4 billion.
www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Thermax buys Danstoker and German subsidiary Omnical Kessel

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 10:59:00 +0100

Denmark │ India

Thermax Limited has acquired Danstoker A/S, a leading European boiler manufacturer, and its German subsidiary, Omnical Kessel- und Apparatebau GmbH. The acquisition valued at US$40 million will play a key role in Thermax's plans for growth in the European energy market.

Danstoker, headquartered in Herning, Denmark has a 75-year tradition in manufacturing biomass based boilers and waste heat recovery systems for a wide range of industries. Its manufacturing facilities are located in both Denmark and Germany, where it had acquired Omnical in 2003. Danstoker is a respected brand in renewable energy, and with over 1,200 installations in Europe, it has a strong presence in the Nordic countries, Germany, UK, France and Russia.

Omnical, a Danstoker subsidiary, specializes in boilers using oil and gas as well as biomass, and also has waste heat recovery products. Operating predominantly in Germany, Omnical has supplier relationships with European and Japanese gas turbine manufacturers for their requirements of waste heat recovery systems.

Thermax Limited specializes in manufacturing sustainable solutions within the international energy and environment sectors. Thermax produces its energy-efficient solutions and components at three plants in India and one in China.

M&A International Inc.’s member in Denmark, Audon Partners, was appointed as the strategic and financial advisor to the owners of Danstoker A/S in the sale of the company. M&A International Inc.’s Indian member, SBI Capital Markets Limited, identified Thermax as a potential buyer and was instrumental in providing contact with senior-level decision makers as well as assisting throughout the sale process.

3D Systems acquires Provel

Sun, 31 Oct 2010 17:12:00 +0100

Italy │ United States

3D Systems Corporation has acquired Provel S.r.l., an Italian provider of rapid prototyping, tooling and manufacturing services, as part of the company’s continued expansion of its activities in Europe.

The company acquired all of Provel’s outstanding shares primarily in a cash transaction with a portion paid in shares. The vendors as well as the managers of Provel will remain with the company and play an important role in 3D Systems’ development in Italy and Europe.

Provel S.r.l. is an Italian service company active in the rapid prototyping sector. The company’s clients include some of the major Italian automotive and design companies. Its production capacity is one of the largest in Europe.

3D Systems Corporation is a listed US company and a leading provider of 3D printing, rapid prototyping and manufacturing systems, and parts solutions. Its expertly integrated solutions are used for design communication and prototyping as well as for production of functional end-use parts.

M&A International Inc.’s Italian member, Arietti & Partners, advised the vendors throughout this transaction.

M&A International Inc. expands its global footprint and sector expertise

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 14:40:00 +0200

Istanbul, 9 October 2010. M&A International Inc., the world’s leading M&A alliance, is pleased to announce it has expanded its global footprint and expertise in the technology sector with the admission of two new member firms, Eurasia Capital (with offices in Central Asia) and Pagemill Partners (Silicon Valley).

For M&A International Inc., the admission of these firms represents a major step forward in its ability to advise clients on a global basis, extending its reach across Central Asia, and to execute deals in the technology sector.

These members were admitted at M&A International’s Fall Conference held in Istanbul, which was attended by over 200 M&A professionals.

About Eurasia Capital
Eurasia Capital is a pan-regional investment bank with a focus on China, Russia, Mongolia and Central Asia. The firm provides cross-border M&A advisory, capital raising, sales & trading and research services to its international and regional clients including government organizations, sovereign wealth funds, resource companies, private equity groups and global portfolio investors. As the leading advisor in resource-rich Mongolia and Central Asia, the firm has a major emphasis on the energy and resource sectors, including key commodities like oil & gas, gold, copper, coal, iron ore and uranium. www.eurasiac.com About Pagemill Partners
Pagemill Partners is a premier investment bank located in the heart of Silicon Valley. The firm specializes in providing financial advisory services, including merger and acquisition (M&A) advisory, private placement advisory, valuation services and specialized financial studies, to emerging and middle-market companies. Due to its proven execution capabilities, Pagemill Partners has become a trusted advisor to companies in the technology, communications and media industries. The firm’s experienced, insightful team works in close partnership with clients, demonstrating personal dedication to the success of clients and their shareholders. Pagemill Partners’ deep domain expertise and strong transaction experience have enabled the firm to complete more than 130 transactions since 2005, with successful results as measured by strategic and financial outcomes. www.pmib.com

About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled resources of over 500 professionals in 45 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 40 countries. All our members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. In 2009, our members closed 224 transactions worth $20.4 billion. www.mergers.net For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Xendo Holding B.V. has sold Xendo Drug Development B.V. to QPS Holding, LLC

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 15:53:00 +0200

Netherlands │ United States

Dutch-based Xendo Holding B.V. has successfully sold its subsidiary Xendo Drug Development B.V. to QPS Holding, LLC.

Since its inception in 1990, Xendo has developed itself into one of the leading Western European service providers to the global life sciences, pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. The company’s service portfolio includes contract research, technical consulting, validation and compliance, regulatory affairs, contract manufacturing and bioprocess development.

Xendo’s subsidiary Xendo Drug Development (XDD) is a full-service Contract Research Organisation (CRO), in which bioanalysis, drug metabolism, clinical research, data management, biometrics and drug development consultancy services for Phase I to Phase IV clinical trials are joined. The services of XDD are focused on improving the quality and safety of drugs, and speeding up their time-to-market.

The pharmaceutical industry has recently experienced a new wave of consolidation. The big pharma companies prefer to cooperate with larger CROs that have the ability to manage large scale trials on a global basis. This has led to a consolidation trend within the CRO market as well. Xendo believed that its CRO business should participate in this consolidation trend.

Xendo found in QPS the right strategic partner. QPS provides pre-clinical and clinical research services to pharmaceutical and biotechnology clients worldwide in the areas of bioanalysis, drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics, translational medicine research, early-phase clinical research and clinical research services. The company has facilities in the United States and Taiwan.

“Joining the QPS organization enables XDD to realize its ambitions for global growth. In terms of activities, size and location, QPS and XDD are a perfect fit. Our combined operations in Asia, Europe and the US position us ideally to expand our portfolios in the increasingly consolidated pharmaceutical and biotechnology sector, our primary market," said Koos Koops, CEO of Xendo.

M&A International Inc.’s Dutch member, Holland Corporate Finance, advised Xendo Holding B.V. in this transaction, working together with M&A International alliance members to identify more than 30 potential buyers from around the world. After an intensively managed, international sale process, Holland Corporate Finance was able to negotiate a successful deal for the shareholders of XDD in every aspect.

M&A International Inc. Real Estate M&A and the State of the Commercial Real Estate Markets: Opportunities Abound – 2010

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 17:07:00 +0200

23 September 2010. In this Real Estate Industry M&A Overview "Opportunities Abound", M&A International experts believe the worst is over with credit availability slowly improving and investments increasing.

As a core contributor to the recent global economic slowdown in 2008–2009, the real estate sector was one of the most affected. The downturn had a serious impact on real estate transactions. Reduced demand resulted in a decline in capital and rental values in many markets, restricted construction spending and led to higher vacancy rates. However, with slowly improving economic growth and investor sentiment as well as easier liquidity conditions, real estate transactions in most markets have shown signs of stabilizing or improving since Q3 2009.

As global economic growth accelerates over the next two years, we believe attractive opportunities will be available for investors seeking to enter or expand their real estate portfolio. Under commercial real estate, we expect the offices segment to first experience renewed investment activity as rising economic growth and declining unemployment rates stimulate leasing demand. Retail real estate will probably lag behind investments in the offices segment due to already higher vacancy rates and because consumer spending generally lags behind the economic recovery and higher employment. The industrial segment, that remained relatively resilient throughout the downturn, is expected to continue its moderate growth.

Download the report below.

Consult the list of M&A International Inc.'s Real Estate Industry Specialists here.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled worldwide resources of over 500 M&A professionals. Operating in 41 countries, our 43 member firms are closely linked to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures and funding which in 2009 totaled 224 closed transactions worth US$20.4 billion. www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

ESB to acquire Northern Ireland Electricity

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:51:00 +0200

Ireland │ United Kingdom

Ireland's Electricity Supply Board (ESB) has entered into an agreement with the Arcapita Bank-owned Viridian Group to buy Northern Ireland Electricity plc (NIE) in a deal worth US$1.6 billion.

NIE owns the regulated electricity transmission and distribution network in Northern Ireland and is responsible for the planning, development, construction and maintenance of the entire network as well as the operation of the distribution network.

ESB, through its ESB Networks division, owns the electricity transmission and distribution network in the Republic of Ireland.

M&A International Inc.’s Irish member, IBI Corporate Finance, advised the Irish Government’s Department of Communications, Energy & Natural Resources – a 95% shareholder in ESB – in relation to this acquisition. Subject to the fulfillment of a number of conditions, the transaction is expected to be completed by the end of 2010.

M&A International Inc. Infrastructure Construction M&A: Opportunities in Adversity – August 2010

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 12:16:00 +0200

4 August 2010. In this Infrastructure Construction Industry M&A Overview “Opportunities in Adversity”, M&A International experts see M&A activity gaining momentum as the present global economic recovery accelerates and is being reinforced by low valuations. While overall the sector outlook appears robust, it was severely affected by the recession with both revenue growth and M&A activity declining in 2008, and again in 2009. The severity of the financial crisis was mitigated by a strong fiscal response in many developed countries. Stimulus spending was largely directed towards infrastructure projects, providing vital sector support. Preferred methods of fiscal expenditure have included infrastructure-related projects given their higher multiplier effect. Clearly, substantial infrastructure investments should benefit M&A activity in both developed and emerging countries. Key markets over the next decade will include China and India due to their substantial infrastructure investment potential reflecting existing infrastructure deficiencies and high economic growth..

Download the report below.

Consult the list of M&A International Inc.'s Construction and Engineering Services Industry Specialists here. About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled worldwide resources of over 500 M&A professionals. Operating in 41 countries, our 43 member firms are closely linked to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures and funding which in 2009 totaled 224 closed transactions worth US$20.4 billion. www.mergers.net
For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

EOS Group enters into joint venture with subsidiary of the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, CreditCN

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 12:30:00 +0200

China │ Germany

The international EOS Group, an Otto Group company, has entered into a joint venture with CreditCN Business Consulting Ltd to form EOS CreditCN Credit Management (Beijing) Ltd., in which EOS holds a 51% stake while CreditCN has the remaining 49%. EOS CreditCN will offer account receivables management and consulting services for companies with business interests or private customers in China.

Established in 1987 by the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation/Credit Management Department of the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM), CreditCN was one of the first companies to offer credit management and market research services in China.

The EOS Group is a leading international provider of tailor-made services covering the entire customer relationship life cycle from customer acquisition to electronic payment processing, debt collection and the purchasing of receivables portfolios.

M&A International Inc.’s members in Germany (Angermann M&A International GmbH) and China (Strategic European Investment Management Ltd.) advised EOS Group throughout the process, from coordination of the due diligence process and negotiations through to the successful closing of the transaction.

M&A International Inc. Alternative Energy Industry M&A Overview – June 2010

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 16:02:00 +0200

9 June 2010. In this Alternative Energy Industry M&A Overview “Seeds of Change”, M&A International experts highlight the growing importance of renewable energy, with industry players actively increasing their renewable portfolios using M&A to buy capacity and integrate horizontally and vertically.

World energy markets are in the midst of a paradigm shift away from heavy dependence on hydrocarbons in favor of a diversified portfolio of energy sources where renewable energy, which accounted for 4.4% of global energy production in 2008, will have a major role. This share will increase rapidly in the next few years, driven by a shift in market focus by both the private and public sectors. For instance, in 2009 power generation investment in alternative energy exceeded investments in traditional fossil-fuel powered generation for the second consecutive year. Moreover, government-backed initiatives have also increased with $180bn mandated in renewable energy related programs in the period 2008–2009.

To benefit from the growing importance of renewable energy, industry players have actively increased their renewable portfolios using M&A to buy capacity and integrate horizontally and vertically.

Download the report below.

Consult the list of M&A International Inc.'s Energy Industry Specialists here.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled worldwide resources of over 500 M&A professionals. Operating in 41 countries, our 43 member firms are closely linked to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures and funding which in 2009 totaled 224 closed transactions worth US$20.4 billion. www.mergers.net For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Felix Abba acquires Kalev Chocolate Factory

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 12:55:00 +0200

Estonia │ Finland Nordic food manufacturer Felix Abba has acquired Estonian confectioner Kalev Chocolate Factory from the Estonian holding Luterma. Under the agreement, Felix Abba takes over 100% of the shares in Kalev Chocolate Factory, including the factory in Jüri – which is located close to Tallinn – the production equipment and the related trademarks.

Kalev is the leading chocolate and sugar confectionery company in Estonia, with more than 200 years of history. In addition to Kalev, the acquisition includes related biscuits and flour mix businesses.

Felix Abba is one of Finland’s leading food manufacturers. Felix Abba is a part of the Orkla Foods Fenno-Baltic division, which is a part of the Norwegian Orkla Group. The Orkla Group operates in the branded consumer goods, aluminum solutions, materials and financial investment sectors.

Clas Goran Hagstrom, Managing Director of Orkla Foods Fenno-Baltic, said the acquisition was an important step in the expansion of Orkla Foods' confectionery business, as it gave it good growth and value creation possibilities in the Estonian market and provided a platform for expanding its confectionery business in Finland and the Baltic region.

M&A International Inc.’s member in the Baltic States, GILD Bankers originated the deal and assisted Felix Abba / Orkla throughout the acquisition process.

Lavazza acquires Onda Coffee Break

Wed, 19 May 2010 11:47:00 +0200

Bulgaria │ Italy Lavazza, one of the largest espresso coffee producers in the world, has acquired Onda Coffee Break – the leading coffee shop chain in Bulgaria – for an undisclosed consideration.

The acquisition, in line with Lavazza’s international growth strategy, represents an important investment to consolidate the Group presence in Bulgaria where espresso coffee consumption is growing rapidly. As a result of this transaction, Lavazza has acquired 11 shops located in key shopping areas in Sofia. Lavazza will gradually increase the visibility of its own brand within the Onda chain, aiming at turning its coffee shops into a showcase for the authentic Italian espresso in Eastern Europe.

Onda Coffee Break was controlled by Global Finance, the largest private equity fund in the region, together with local smaller shareholders.

M&A International Inc.’s Italian member Arietti & Partners together with the Bulgarian member Entrea Capital originated the deal and assisted Lavazza throughout the acquisition process, proving once again the value and competitive advantage of M&A International Inc. in cross-border acquisitions.

Despite the recent travel difficulties, 228 attendees from over 40 countries met to discuss M&A and generate deal opportunities in Stockholm

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 17:16:00 +0200

Stockholm, 16 April 2010. The 9th M&A International Inc. Mid-Market Forum (MMF), held in Stockholm, Sweden on 16 April, was attended by over 220 senior industrialists, M&A advisors and bankers. The event focuses on generating M&A deal activity through a series of one-to-one private meetings. At this year’s MMF, approximately 900 private meetings were held, each lasting 20 minutes. Göran Lindö, VP Operations and M&A at Dustin, an online IT equipment sales business owned by one of the major Nordic PE funds, Altor, said: “It’s incredibly effective. Had I tried to arrange all of these meetings on my own it would have taken me a very long time. Here you get to the point at once. You skip the ineffective small talk and everyone is fine with that.” During the MMF Gala Dinner on Friday 16 April at the Grand Hôtel, M&A International Inc. announced the “M&A International Inc. Deal of the Year 2009” which was won by M&A International Inc.’s members in Ireland and Australia, IBI Corporate Finance and Baron Partners. They advised Paddy Power of Ireland on the acquisition of SportsBet, an Australian licensed sports bookmaker.
M&A International Inc. Deal of the Year 2009 About M&A International Inc. Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled worldwide resources of over 500 M&A professionals. Operating in 41 countries, our 43 member firms are closely linked to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures and funding which in 2009 totaled 224 closed transactions worth US$20.4 billion. www.mergers.net For further information, please contact: M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Life Technologies Corp. acquires Limerick-based biotechnology firm Stokes Bio Ltd

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 16:28:00 +0200

Ireland │ USA Stokes Bio Ltd is an Irish company dedicated to the development and application of microfluidic technology, which helps to radically improve and enhance life sciences research and molecular diagnostics. The products arising from these technologies are used for discovery of markers for cancer that will lead to a new approach to the diagnosis of cancer and pathogen detection. The company was founded in 2005 by Mark Davies and Tara Dalton based on technology developed by the Stokes Research Institute at the University of Limerick, and Kernel Capital Partners was one of its main investors.

US-based Life Technologies Corp. is a global biotechnology tools company providing systems, consumables and services for scientific researchers around the world. Life Technologies is advancing scientific research in areas like academic research, drug discovery and development, toxicology and forensics, disease diagnostics, clinical cell therapy and regenerative medicine and biologics manufacturing.

M&A International Inc.’s member in Ireland, IBI Corporate Finance, assisted Stokes Bio in assessing its funding options in Q3 2009 and advised the company on the need to bring a larger strategic partner on board given its medium-term funding requirements. IBI subsequently approached a small number of potential strategic partners on behalf of the company and entered into exclusive sale discussions with Life Technologies early in the process, which culminated in the sale of Stokes Bio to Life Technologies.

M&A International Inc. Quarterly Mid-Market Report Q1 2010

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 16:47:00 +0200

16 April 2010. In its quarterly report, M&A International Inc. announces a continued increase in the level of deal activity and expects the level of deal closings to increase in the coming quarters. Download the report below.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled worldwide resources of over 500 M&A professionals. Operating in 41 countries, our 43 member firms are closely linked to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures and funding which in 2009 totaled 224 closed transactions worth US$20.4 billion. www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Konrad Hornschuch AG acquires O’Sullivan Films, Inc.

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 17:50:00 +0100

Germany │ USA M&A International Inc.’s USA member, Matrix Capital Markets Group, Inc., advised on the sale of O’Sullivan Films, Inc. to Konrad Hornschuch AG of Weissbach, Germany, a portfolio company of Barclays Private Equity. This strategic acquisition is part of an overall plan to further expand geographically as well as deliver additional products and services to the market.

O’Sullivan Films is located in Winchester, VA and has 350 employees. The company was founded over 100 years ago and is a recognized leader in the production and commercialization of polymer films and finishing film technologies serving the building products, consumer, healthcare and automotive markets.

Konrad Hornschuch, with 800 employees worldwide, is a leading producer and marketer of highly technical films, foils and artificial leather for the home decor, fashion, furniture, automotive and construction related markets through its well known brands d-c-fix® and Skai®. The combined entities generated revenues of nearly US$300 million in 2009.

According to Denis Belzile, CEO of O’Sullivan Films, “We feel that Konrad Hornschuch will be an excellent partner for O’Sullivan Films and the combination of our two companies offers tremendous potential. The team at Matrix provided invaluable advice to us throughout the entire transaction. They did an outstanding job in an environment where the dynamics were very complex.”

Matrix also served as the investment bank for O’Sullivan Films when it was acquired from PolyOne Corporation by its management team and investors in 2006.

M&A International Inc. eTailing Industry M&A Overview – March 2010

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 16:48:00 +0100

11 March 2010. In this eTailing Industry M&A Overview, M&A International experts detect a high level of activity despite the economic downturn.

Despite extremely adverse global macroeconomic conditions in late 2008 and throughout 2009, eTailing has performed well. Sales growth of 6.4% in 2008 and 4.3% in 2009 compares very well with declining traditional retail sales. Ever increasing broadband penetration is but one of several factors that suggest that eTailing will continue to grow.

eTailing M&A activity has remained largely stable and well-supported. Such performance reflects the desire of traditional retailers to enhance their model by adding B&C (Bricks and Clicks) capability, existing players’ needs to consolidate, the increasing determination of pure play eTailers to augment their existing product and service offering and a shift towards integrated marketing by multi-channel players.

Download the report below.

Consult the list of M&A International Inc.'s Retail Industry Specialists here.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled worldwide resources of over 500 M&A professionals. Operating in 41 countries, our 43 member firms are closely linked to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures and funding which in 2009 totaled 224 closed transactions worth US$20.4 billion. www.mergers.net For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Kiri Dyes & Chemicals Ltd acquires Dystar Group from its Insolvency Administrators

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 11:38:00 +0100

Germany │ India Ahmedabad-based Kiri Dyes and Chemicals Ltd – through its SPV, Kiri Holding Singapore Private Limited – has acquired the German DyStar Group (Dystar) from the Insolvency Administrators of Dystar’s estate via an asset purchase agreement.

Kiri Dyes is a listed Indian company engaged mainly in the manufacture of reactive dyes, which are used primarily in cotton fabrics. The company also manufactures and markets dye intermediates and basic chemicals for the dyestuff industry.

DyStar is a global market leader for dyes, dyes solutions, leather, performance chemicals, new technologies and custom manufacturing of specialty dyes and pigments. It provides high-quality products and services across the entire value chain in various sectors such as apparel, hosiery, automotive, carpets and industrial fabrics. In September 2009, Dystar filed for insolvency with the Frankfurt courts, and Insolvency Administrators were appointed to manage the estate of Dystar.

M&A International Inc.’s Indian and German members, SBI Capital Markets Ltd and Angermann M&A International GmbH, advised Kiri Dyes throughout the buy-out process, from coordination of the due diligence process and negotiations with the Insolvency Administrators over the estate of Dystar (appointed by the German courts) through to the successful closing of the transaction.

M&A International Inc. Quarterly Mid-Market Report Q4 2009

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 15:30:00 +0100

2 February 2010. In its quarterly report, M&A International Inc. announces the return of M&A as a key corporate development tool following a global survey of its members. Download the report below.

About M&A International Inc.
Established in 1985, M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled worldwide resources of over 500 M&A professionals. Operating in 41 countries, our 43 member firms are closely linked to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures and funding which in 2009 totaled 224 closed transactions worth US$20.4 billion. www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Acentic sells controlling stake to PhilWeb Corporation and ISM Communications Corp

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 15:36:00 +0100

Philippines │ United Kingdom Acentic, one of Europe’s largest providers of digital television and internet access to 4 and 5 star hotel groups, has sold a controlling stake to a new joint venture company established by Philippines-based Philweb Corporation (WEB) and ISM Communications Corporation (ISM). The 65% stake owned by GI Partners (a leading private equity firm focused on asset backed investments in North America and Western Europe) was acquired for a cash consideration of US$28.5 million. The remaining 35% of Acentic will continue to be owned by Niantic Holdings GmbH, a German company controlled by Dr. Andreas Jacobs of the renowned chocolate family.

Acentic is an international provider of digital and internet protocol (IP) converged services to hotels. Their digital television services and high speed internet access are in many of the world’s leading hotel chains including Accor, Dorint, Intercontinental Hotel Group, Hilton, Hyatt, Maritim, Marriott, Mövenpick and Starwood. Operating in more than 30 countries across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Acentic is the second largest in-room entertainment service provider in Europe.

WEB and ISM see Acentic as a perfect fit for the information technology and telecommunications business of ISM and the gaming expertise of WEB. The acquisition will enable Acentic to grow its predominantly European market to include the Asia–Pacific region, the fastest growing hotel market in the world.

M&A International Inc.’s UK member, Cavendish Corporate Finance LLP, advised Acentic in this transaction, working closely with the alliance’s Norwegian team, Bridgehead AS, on identifying relevant trade buyers particularly in the hotel PayTV market.

M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance ranked as No. 1 financial advisor in Ireland by mergermarket

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 12:37:00 +0100

December 2009. M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance has been ranked as the No. 1 financial advisor in Ireland in the annual review of international mergers and acquisitions activity by specialist M&A publisher, mergermarket. This is the fifth successive year that IBI has been ranked No. 1. IBI topped the league table for the number of transactions on which it advised with a total of 10 qualifying deals in 2009. It also advised on the highest value of deals in the Irish market with a cumulative deal value of US$1,168m for 2009. The company was also ranked top in 2008, 2007, 2006 and 2005. Further consolidation expected in 2010 Commenting on the announcement, Roisin Brennan, IBI Executive Chairman, said: "We are delighted that the leading position of IBI Corporate Finance in the Irish corporate finance market has been reinforced by these statistics. While economic and financial conditions remained difficult, M&A activity amongst Irish corporates continued in 2009 and reflected a mix of companies in pursuit of international expansion, disposing of non-core or under-performing operations and general distress M&A. We expect to see further consolidation in 2010 in the face of ongoing challenging economic conditions with a cohort of ambitious Irish companies continuing to implement successful growth strategies." About mergermarket
mergermarket covers corporate finance activity in Europe, North America, Latin America and the Asia-Pacific region. mergermarket generates proprietary intelligence and delivers it, together with daily aggregated content, on its www.mergermarket.com platform. About IBI Corporate Finance
IBI Corporate Finance is Ireland's leading corporate finance advisor, providing expert, independent advice. It acts for public, private and semi-state companies covering a wide spectrum of domestic and international transactions. IBI Corporate Finance is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Bank of Ireland Group and is the Irish member of M&A International Inc.
www.ibicorporatefinance.ie About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled resources of over 600 professionals in 45 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 42 countries. All our members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. In 2008, our members closed 258 transactions worth $16.9 billion.
www.mergers.net For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

M&A International Inc. Healthcare Industry M&A Overview – Fall 2009

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 16:48:00 +0100

3 December 2009. In this Healthcare Industry M&A Overview, M&A International Inc. expects "Global Consolidation to Shape the Future of the Healthcare Industry".

Over the past decade, the healthcare industry has experienced global convergence and witnessed the rise of emerging markets. This report covers M&A activities in two major sectors: pharmaceuticals (including specialty, over-the-counter and contract pharmaceuticals) and medical devices. It focuses on major trends and drivers influencing the sector and their impact on M&A activity. It also considers the role of emerging economies, both as manufacturing hubs and high growth potential markets. The report discusses the scale of M&A activity in these sectors, which have been highly resilient despite the current global economic slowdown, particularly in small cap and cross-border deals, with emerging markets driving a significant proportion of volume.

Download the report below.

Consult the list of M&A International Inc.'s Healthcare Industry Specialists here.

About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled resources of over 600 professionals in 45 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 42 countries. All our members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. In 2008, our members closed 258 transactions worth $16.9 billion. www.mergers.net For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

MasTec acquires Precision Pipeline

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 11:54:00 +0100

United States The shareholders of Precision Pipeline, LLC, a leader among the construction contractors that build large-diameter transcontinental oil and natural gas pipelines in the United States, have sold their investment to MasTec, Inc., a specialty contractor for communications companies, utilities and governments throughout the US.

Precision Pipeline appointed M&A International Inc.’s Dallas member, Capital Alliance, to advise on the transaction. The sale included a payment of US$132 million in cash at the closing and the assumption of US$34 million in outstanding debt, which, together, represented more than twice the initial offer. Including earnout considerations, the aggregate transaction value (excluding assumption debt) is expected to exceed US$250 million. A major benefit of the sale is the improved future growth opportunities as a division of a public company, which will result in additional value for the shareholders under the negotiated five-year earnout program.

M&A International Inc. Quarterly Mid-Market Report Q3 2009

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:48:00 +0100

18 November 2009. In its quarterly report, M&A International Inc. announces an upturn in mid-market M&A activity following a global survey of its members. Download the report below.

About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled resources of over 600 professionals in 45 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 42 countries. All our members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. In 2008, our members closed 258 transactions worth $16.9 billion. www.mergers.net For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

3TS Capital Partners acquires a minority stake in Romania’s InternetCorp

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 11:54:00 +0100

Austria │ Romania 3TS Capital Partners, one of the leading private equity and venture capital firms in Central and Eastern Europe, has acquired a minority stake in InternetCorp of Romania. 3TS primarily targets expansion capital and buy-out investments in high growth sectors. Investors in the funds include 3i, Cisco, Sitra, EBRD and KfW.

InternetCorp is Romania’s largest privately held online publisher, with a market share of more than 10% of the Romanian online advertising market and a diversified portfolio of 14 online products, including www.wall-street.ro, www.kudika.ro and www.9am.ro.

Commenting on the investment, Mihai Seceleanu, CEO of InternetCorp said: “Having concluded a deal of significant size during the recession sends a signal that while Romania’s online space is maturing, there is still plenty of room left for potential growth.”

M&A International Inc.’s Romanian member, Capital Partners, acted as exclusive financial advisor to InternetCorp.

M&A International Inc. expands its global footprint and reports a strong rebound in M&A activity

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:48:00 +0100

Miami, 9 November 2009. M&A International Inc., the world’s leading M&A alliance, is pleased to announce it has expanded its international reach to 45 members in 42 countries with the admission of Entrea Capital (Bulgaria) and Swicorp (Saudi Arabia and Tunisia) during the M&A International Inc. Fall Conference in Miami.

M&A International Inc.’s member firms met in Miami to consider the M&A market, its recovery and recent trends. During its conference it admitted two new member firms and reported a strong rebound in deal activity.

The level of members’ active mandates has been on the upswing since July and is now at the high end of its typical range, with members currently advising on approximately 460 active mandates.
ACTIVE DEALS ON THE REBOUND
Source: M&A International Inc. deal database

On closed deals, statistics to the end of October 2009 show M&A activity in the mid-market has recovered to 78% of that seen during the same period in 2008. The number of deals closed by M&A International Inc. members from January to October 2009 totaled 157, compared to 207 during the same period last year. Most notably, the monthly rate of closed deals since May 2009 has outnumbered that of 2008.

CLOSED DEAL RATE PICKING UP SINCE SLOW START OF 2009

Source: M&A International Inc. deal database

About Entrea Capital, Bulgaria
Entrea Capital is a leading financial advisory firm focused on serving clients in Bulgaria and Southeast Europe. Its core expertise is M&A advisory services, helping clients plan, structure and execute successful M&A transactions. Entrea Capital’s mergers & acquisitions practice in Bulgaria consists of a dedicated team of senior professionals, and now is supported by the global M&A alliance M&A International Inc. In addition to M&A advisory services, Entrea helps its clients with a range of fundraising and corporate finance services. www.entrea-capital.com

About SWICORP
Swicorp is a leading independent corporate finance advisory, private equity and principal investment firm with a specific regional focus on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Founded in 1987 and licensed by the Capital Market Authority of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Dubai Financial Service Authority of the United Arab Emirates, Swicorp has an extensive track record of pioneering advisory transactions across the MENA region over the last 20 years.

From its Saudi platform, Swicorp is able to reach the entire Middle Eastern market. And from its Tunisian platform, Swicorp is able to service the whole North African market. Swicorp is headquartered in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) and has regional offices in Jeddah, Geneva, Tunis, Dubai and Algiers. www.swicorp.com

About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled resources of over 600 professionals in 45 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 42 countries. All our members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. In 2008, our members closed 258 transactions worth $16.9 billion. www.mergers.net

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Tullett Prebon has entered into an agreement to acquire Convenção Corretora de Valores e Câmbio

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 11:54:00 +0200

Brazil │ United Kingdom M&A International Inc.’s Brazilian member, Stratus Group, acted as exclusive financial advisor to Convenção Corretora de Valores e Câmbio (Convenção) in the sale of the business. On 12 October 2009, Convenção reached an agreement to sell its operations to Tullett Prebon for an initial consideration US$11.5 million, with deferred consideration up to a maximum of US$28.7 subject to achievement of future revenue and profit targets. The deal is subject to approval from the Brazilian authorities including the Central Bank of Brazil.

Convenção is an independent brokerage house focused on institutional clients, acting primarily in the futures market. The company was founded in 1973 by Eduardo Rocha Azevedo, previous President of Bovespa (the former Brazilian Stock Exchange now part of BM&FBovespa, the Brazilian Stock, Mercantile & Futures Exchange) and one of the founders of BM&F (the former Brazilian Mercantile & Futures Exchange, also part of BM&FBovespa).

Tullett Prebon was founded in London, UK and is one of the largest international inter-dealer brokers acting in Europe, North America, the Asia Pacific and more recently the Latin American market. Its business covers the following major product groups: volatility, rates, non-banking & sterling cash, treasury, energy, environmental, credit and equities. It also offers a variety of market information services through its IDB market data division, Tullett Prebon Information.

M&A International Inc. member Bridgehead voted “M&A Advisory Firm of the Year 2009 – Norway”

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:35:00 +0200

September 2009. M&A International Inc. member Bridgehead has been voted “M&A Advisory Firm of the Year 2009 – Norway” by the internationally recognized magazine ACQ Finance. Nearly 3,000 professional industry players voted in the poll. Guided by the poll’s results, ACQ’s editors selected those firms and individuals they thought had had the greatest impact on the industry in their respective countries during 2008 / 2009. ACQ awards are voted for by the industry itself. With the worst of the financial storm predicted to be over, the Country Awards 2009 honors the movers and shakers that have survived the crunch by adopting a flexible approach to M&A. This year’s winners have not only made key decisions, adapting to an uncertain economy, they have also executed their plans with finesse and thought for the future. Dan Petterøe, Partner at Bridgehead commented: "We are very pleased to have won the “M&A Advisory Firm of the Year – Norway” award, which recognizes our commitment to client service and providing leading M&A advisory services. Bridgehead has closed over 100 M&A transactions in the last 8 years and we are proud to provide our clients with tailored and value-added advisory services throughout every transaction." Bridgehead AS is one of the leading, independent advisors in buy and sell-side transactions involving Norwegian and foreign-based companies, public and private companies, and financial investors. Bridgehead has offices in Oslo and Bergen.
www.bridgehead.no

Performance in Lighting acquires Spittler Group

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 11:54:00 +0200

Germany │ Italy Performance in Lighting, a leading Italian-based group in the lighting industry, has acquired 75% of the share capital of Spittler Group, a German company active in the production and distribution of indoor lighting equipment.

With this acquisition, Performance in Lighting significantly strengthens its footprint in the German market as well as its European presence in the indoor lighting sector. The product line will also broaden, with turnover expected to reach €135 million in 2010.

M&A International Inc.’s Italian member, Arietti & Partners, together with the alliance’s German member, Angermann M&A International GmbH, originated the deal and represented Performance in Lighting throughout the acquisition process.

M&A International Inc. member Audon Partners voted “Corporate Finance Advisor of the Year 2009 – Denmark”

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 15:35:00 +0200

September 2009. M&A International Inc. member Audon Partners has been voted “Corporate Finance Advisor of the Year 2009 – Denmark” via an annual poll among 3,000 professional industry players in the internationally recognized magazine ACQ Finance. Charlotte Abbott from ACQ Finance commented: “Audon Partners has been given this award in recognition of the results obtained by the company throughout the year on behalf of its clients, and of the expertise and experience that Audon Partners possesses. The award has been obtained on the basis of several significant and complex transactions, which Audon Partners has successfully closed during the past year.” These include among others:

The sale of ILVA – Denmark’s second largest home furnishings retail chain – to IDesign, which also owns IDEmøbler. The Danish private equity fund Axcel is the majority shareholder in IDesign. The transaction comprised the sale of ILVA’s activities and stores in Denmark and Sweden. Audon Partners advised the sellers.
The acquisition of BabySam – Denmark’s largest retail chain in baby equipment comprising 31 stores and 12 owners. The BabySam chain was acquired jointly by two private equity funds, Danish Polaris Private Equity and Northern Europe-based AAC Capital Partners, in what has been characterized as one the most complex transactions ever closed in Denmark. Audon Partners advised the buyers.
The sale of the Scandinavian market leader in fastener products and fastening techniques, Arvid Nilsson A/S, to the German Würth Group, the world’s largest trading company in fastening and assembling techniques. The owner of Arvid Nilsson A/S was the Arvid Nilsson Foundation. Audon Partners advised the seller.

Being in the business for more than 30 years, Audon Partners is one of Denmark’s most experienced M&A advisors. “Elected as the best Danish corporate finance advisor is a great honor for us and an affirmation that we are able to meet the strict professional demands placed upon us,” said Jonas P. Knudsen, Partner at Audon Partners.
www.audonpartners.dk

Latitude Tree International Group Ltd. secures IPO for US$5.46 million

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 11:54:00 +0200

Singapore Latitude Tree International Group Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of quality lifestyle wooden home furniture, with a product range focused on Collection Sets. It is the largest exporter of wooden furniture in Vietnam (2006 to 2008). The Group’s products are manufactured in Vietnam at two production facilities with a total built-up area of 232,342 square meters. The main product categories are bedroom, dining room and living room Collection Sets, amongst others. Most of its customers are based in the USA and Canada, with the bulk of its products exported to the USA. Latitude Tree International Group Ltd is a subsidiary of Latitude Tree Holdings Berhad, a company listed on the Main Board of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad. M&A International Inc.’s member in Singapore, PrimePartners Corporate Finance Pte. Ltd., was the manager and sponsor for the initial public offering of Latitude Tree International Group Ltd on SGX Catalist in Singapore.

Kale Group sells its iMeter subsidiary to Dresser

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 19:14:00 +0200

Netherlands │ Turkey iMeter B.V., based in the Netherlands, manufactures and markets rotary and turbine gas meters, meter instrumentation and meter calibration systems for the global natural gas industry. iMeter is known for its innovative product design capabilities and engineering expertise. Prior to the divestment, iMeter was part of Kale Group’s energy business unit Kale Enerji. Founded in 1957, the Turkish Kale Group is a global leader in the ceramic tile sector. The company’s ongoing investments have furthermore propelled it into a world-class player in the machinery, defense, chemical, electrical components, energy, information, transport, tourism and food sectors. Today, the Kale Group comprises 24 separate companies with a total workforce of more than 5,000 people. Its products are sold in 60 countries worldwide. Dresser, Inc. is a manufacturer and marketer of highly engineered equipment and specialized services sold primarily to customers in energy-related industries. The company's products include instruments, meters, piping specialties, natural gas-fueled engines, retail fuel dispensers, and outdoor payment and point-of-sale systems. Dresser is globally active, with sales in over 100 countries and approximately 6,400 employees worldwide. iMeter is expected to strengthen Dresser’s Meters & Instruments product portfolio for the global natural gas distribution and transmission markets. “We plan to build on iMeter’s engineering innovations by leveraging Dresser’s world-class manufacturing operations to supply iMeter products to our global customer base,” Dan Jezerinac, President of Dresser’s Infrastructure Solutions business, said. “The addition of iMeter’s Holland operation will allow us to improve our product offerings and delivery capabilities for European and Asian customers, and will broaden our product offerings for customers in the Americas.” M&A International Inc.’s Dutch member, Holland Corporate Finance, worked closely with the alliance’s Turkish member, PDF Corporate Finance, in successfully closing this transaction.

More than 200 meetings at G8 Young Business Summit

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 16:48:00 +0200

Stresa, 6 July 2009. M&A International Inc.’s member in Italy, Arietti & Partners, organized a panel discussion on M&A and innovation in addition to one-to-one meetings with young entrepreneurs during the Forum di Stresa.

The Italian team of M&A International Inc., Arietti & Partners, was platinum sponsor of the G8 Young Business Summit in Stresa (Italy) held 2–3 July 2009. The team organized a panel discussion on M&A as a tool for innovation, followed by more than 200 bilateral meetings between young entrepreneurs and M&A International Inc. advisors.

The event, which took place at the Regina Palace Hotel, was attended by 80 delegates, primarily under-40 entrepreneurs from Italy and other G8 countries, private equity funds and legal advisors.

A panel of experts from M&A International Inc. participated in “Innovation and Growth through Cross-border M&A”, a discussion moderated by Manuele Musso, Managing Director of Space 2000. M&A International Inc. was represented by Attilio Arietti (Italy), Hans Bethge (Germany), James S. Cassel (USA), Doru Lionachescu (Romania) and Christopher Scales (Spain).

The key conclusion from the panel was that merger and acquisition transactions can be more than a shortcut to innovation. By acquiring (or merging with) a company that has the technology, the products, the distribution channels and the market knowledge that would normally take years to develop, the acquiror is very often securing little more than a time advantage. When immediate measures need to be taken to innovate, M&A can in fact be the most effective (and only) option available.

The current economic situation has affected the multiples applicable to transactions and company evaluations, leading to reductions that are hard to understand and, therefore, not accepted by sellers. However, that can be a unique opportunity for those companies interested in international expansion and “acquiring innovation”, taking advantage of the lower prices.

After the debate, Italian and international delegates met other entrepreneurs and M&A International Inc. advisors in 25-minute one-to-one meetings to discuss working together, strategies and international expansion opportunities. This ‘speed dating’ format has been successfully developed by M&A International Inc. in its annual M&A Mid-Market Forum www.midmarketforum.com, the 8th edition held in Milan last autumn.

Attilio Arietti, Chairman of M&A International Inc., commented: “I am glad to have met and introduced these young entrepreneurs to my international colleagues. They proved to be very dynamic, willing to follow innovative paths and open to M&A transactions. The bilateral meetings have given an international insight to the business strategies of these entrepreneurs.”

For more information about the event and a picture gallery, please visit www.mergers.it

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, mailto:cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, mailto:melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Distressed assets present an opportunity in European M&A sector

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:38:00 +0200

Dublin, 30 June 2009. The European M&A market has fallen back significantly from its peak in 2007 with private equity deals falling by 59 percent in 2008 as the trouble in debt markets curtailed many leveraged deals. Corporates with strong balance sheets and cash-rich private equity firms can take advantage of companies disposing of non-core subsidiaries writes Ted Webb, Joint Managing Director of M&A International Inc.’s member in Ireland, IBI Corporate Finance.

2008 proved to be a tumultuous year for mergers and acquisitions in Europe. Following the crash of the financial markets in September 2008 and the infiltration of the credit crunch into the real economy, it is hardly surprising that the value and volume of M&A activity has fallen from the dizzy heights seen in 2007.

Recent statistics from M&A intelligence provider, mergermarket, show that total European deal values have declined from a peak of €428bn in Q2 2007 to just €173bn in the last quarter. While the volume of M&A activity held steady for the first half of the year, there was a significant fall-off in the last two quarters of 2008 with just over 800 deals in Q4, a level not seen since 2003.

Across Europe, the UK and Ireland accounted for almost a quarter of all deals in 2008 while the other major European economies of Germany, France and Italy recorded around 10 per cent of deals each. Central and Eastern Europe continues to see a significant volume of deals, accounting for 13 per cent of activity.

The outlook for the European economy is far from rosy and the downward trend in the M&A cycle is likely to continue from its 2007 peak. Turbulent equity markets mean that the appetite for acquisitions was much reduced in the latter part of 2008 and whether these stabilize throughout 2009 will play a big part in determining levels of M&A activity.

The largest announced deal in Europe in 2008 was BHP Billiton’s failed €130bn attempt to acquire Rio Tinto – this signaled the peak of the commodities bubble and was the last of the “super” deals. It seems this was only one of many deals which fell victim to the uncertainty in the markets as pricing disputes developed.

In addition to funding difficulties, competition authority conditions also proved to be an insurmountable obstacle for this deal. It is, however, worth keeping an eye on competition rulings in the new deal making landscape. It could be that various banking tie-ups have set precedents whereby competition considerations are relaxed to assist deal making in key sectors. M&A opportunities may arise in 2009 in situations where previously there would have existed an anti-trust brick wall.

For the second year running, the financial services sector accounted for the highest aggregate value of M&A activity in 2008 with almost 30 per cent of the total. However, this is not testament to a buoyant M&A environment, but rather to dramatic government bailouts of banks globally.

Being a cyclical sector and coupled with the lack of confidence in the market currently, it is unsurprising that the consumer space has been affected by the economic downturn. Nevertheless, consumer deals still accounted for a sizeable 21 per cent of overall deal value in Europe. This included some large deals such as Pernod-Ricard’s €5.6bn acquisition of Vin & Sprit, taking over Absolut Vodka, the company’s flagship brand, and Inbev’s €36.8bn hostile takeover of Anheuser-Busch, creating the largest brewer in the world.

One of the more resilient sectors in Europe in deal making terms was energy, mining and utilities (which accounted for 17 per cent of overall value). A recent PwC report shows that electricity and gas deal values only fell 13 per cent by target and 20 per cent by bidder compared with the 41 per cent drop in power deal value worldwide. European bidder numbers rose by a third, reflecting the continued appetite for consolidation. However, apart from French company EDF’s expansion of its nuclear footprint, there was an absence of mega deals internationally, such as those made by E.ON, Enel, Iberdrola and National Power in previous years. The credit crunch has coincided with a natural pause for breath as companies integrate previous acquisitions.

The Candover Private Equity Barometer 2008 report paints a suitably gloomy picture of European private equity investment activity, with a total value of €87bn representing a near 59 per cent decline against the record total of €198bn seen in 2007.

However, the death knell for the industry may not have sounded just yet. The slide in activity terms was fairly moderate with just 14 per cent fewer private equity deals in 2008 compared to 2007 and still ahead of the 2006 mark. This suggests a hard core in the market with the resources and the desire to continue to seek out investments.

Those private equity firms with cash reserves are prepared to inject equity into companies if they are satisfied with strategy. However, more equity will have to be committed in the future as the lack of debt finance continues to hamper the volume and size of deals being done.

With many companies predicted to struggle, the growth of distressed assets is likely to be a feature of 2009. For the M&A community, this will mean opportunities as undervalued assets begin to look attractive, particularly to large corporates with conservative balance sheets or cash-rich private equity firms. However, since there will be a glut of distressed assets in the market, it will be vital to selectively choose fundamentally sound businesses with proven revenue streams in order to be well-positioned for the eventual recovery.

We will see profitable, non-core subsidiary disposals over the coming months as corporates have begun to accept that peak sale values will not return anytime soon and they themselves choose to focus on core operations.

There will also be opportunities for financial advisers to work with companies needing to alter their capital structures, whether requiring new external finance or a restructuring involving existing stakeholders.

2009 will be a year of obstacles and opportunities. The speed and depth of the recession will dictate how quickly, if at all, activity picks up in the year ahead.

For further information, please contact:

M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, mailto:cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, mailto:melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Bank Hapoalim raises US$400 million in bonds

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 09:32:00 +0200

Israel Bank Hapoalim is Israel’s leading financial services group. The bank offers diverse services ranging from general banking to complex financing of large scale projects. Operating over the last 87 years, the bank has developed a branch network and extensive commercial activity in all areas of banking. With over 14,000 employees, it is the largest in the Israeli banking industry in terms of credit portfolio size, asset volume and the volume of equity capital. The group also operates abroad via branches, representative offices and subsidiaries.

In 2007, the Israeli government set up a new capital adequacy ratio for banks to be completed by the end of 2009. In order to comply with the new regulatory requirement, the bank is expected to increase its capital base. Despite the downturn in the capital markets, the bank succeeded in raising bonds worth US$400 million at an attractive rate. In order to fully comply with the new requirements, the bank is expected to raise more capital in a similar format by the end of 2009.

M&A International Inc.’s Israeli member, Rosario Capital, was a member of the underwriting consortium in this transaction.

Industex acquires Best Direct (International) Ltd.

Fri, 01 May 2009 09:32:00 +0200

Spain │ United Kingdom Founded in 1991, Best Direct is a leading television shopping channel operator in the UK. With an international reach covering Austria, Belgium, Germany, Holland, Japan, Switzerland, the UK and US, Best Direct sells innovative household products that are either developed in-house or sourced on an exclusive basis from a variety of trusted suppliers. Industex develops, markets and distributes mass appeal consumer products worldwide through multiple channels of distribution, including Direct Response TV. The sale of Best Direct is the culmination of a long working relationship between M&A International Inc.’s London-based member, Cavendish Corporate Finance, and the Best Direct shareholders, which started with the successful sale of their interests in William Levene Ltd in 2006. Adhering to the client's specific requirements, our member conducted an expedited full sale exercise, including buyers from around the world and several different sectors within the media industry. Industex was identified early in the sale process as a strategic acquiror that was looking to break into the UK market.

M&A International Inc. expands its global footprint

Sat, 18 Apr 2009 12:11:00 +0200

Atlanta, 18 April 2009. M&A International Inc., the world’s leading M&A alliance, is pleased to announce it has expanded its global footprint to 39 countries with the admission of three new member firms: PrimePartners Corporate Finance from Singapore, Rosario Capital from Israel and Stratus Group from Brazil. For M&A International Inc., the admission of these three firms represents a major step forward in its ability to advise clients on a global basis and extends its reach into Asia, South America and the Middle East. About PrimePartners Corporate Finance Pte Ltd
Since its start in January 2003, PPCF has focused on providing M&A advisory services, financial advice and raising capital for the owners and managers of medium-sized companies operating domestically and regionally in Asia.
www.primepartners.com.sg About Rosario Capital Ltd.
Rosario Capital is a leading investment banking house headquartered in Israel. The firm is one of Israel’s primary specialists in public and private equity offering. It provides expert merger and acquisition and corporate finance advisory services to leading Israeli companies, including market research, fairness opinions and company valuations, financial structuring and fundraising.
www.rosario-capital.co.il About Stratus Group
Founded in 1999, Stratus Group is an independent firm focused on M&A, private equity and financial advisory with a strategic focus on the middle market. Stratus operates under a process driven culture, with its compliance in line with international practices.
www.stratusbr.com About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled resources of over 600 professionals in 44 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 39 countries. All our members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. In 2008, our members closed 258 transactions worth $16.9 billion.
www.mergers.net For further information, please contact: M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales, Executive Director, +34 678 549 330, mailto:cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, Head of Marketing, +34 646 740 259, mailto:melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Recognizing members’ achievements

Sat, 18 Apr 2009 12:06:00 +0200

Atlanta, 18 April 2009. M&A International Inc. celebrated its annual awards to members during its spring conference held in Atlanta, USA. In the beautiful facilities of the Ansley Golf Club, nine sector awards were announced as well as ‘Deal of the Year’ and ‘Member of the Year’ for 2008. From over 258 deals closed in 2008, Deal of the Year 2008 went to M&A International Inc.’s Spanish member, Closa Corporate Finance Advisors, for advising Telvent on its acquisition of DTN Holding Company, Inc. M&A International Inc.’s Boston-based member, TM Capital Corp., assisted in this transaction, which is the 4th transaction our members have closed for Telvent. Member of the Year 2008 was awarded to M&A International Inc.’s Boston-based member, TM Capital Corp. The award was based on a member’s M&A contribution to generating cross-border deal flow. Sector awards Automotive Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Chicago, MASI Ltd., for advising on a buy mandate for Fujikura Kasei Co., Ltd.
Lead advisor: Jack Campbell Business Support Services Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Ireland, IBI Corporate Finance, for advising on a buy mandate for Premier Group.
Lead advisor: John Tuite Construction & Engineering Services Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Boston, TM Capital Corp., for advising on a buy mandate for New Enterprise Stone & Lime, Inc.
Lead advisor: Murray Beach Energy Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Belgium, Capital Advice, for advising on a buy mandate for Electrawinds.
Lead advisor: Alex Vandekerckhove Food & Beverage Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Finland, Merasco Capital Ltd., assisted by M&A International Inc.’s Spanish member, Closa Corporate Finance Advisors, for advising on a buy mandate for Atria Oyj.
Lead advisor: Ulf Rosenlöf Healthcare Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Boston, TM Capital Corp., assisted by M&A International Inc.’s British member, Cavendish Corporate Finance, for advising on a sale mandate for Dinex Holdings, Inc.
Lead advisor: Michael Goldman Logistics Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Norway, Bridgehead AS, for advising on a sale mandate for the LogIT Gruppen AS.
Lead advisor: Harald Valved Retail Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Denmark, Audon Partners A/S, for advising on a buy mandate for Polaris Private Equity and AAC Capital Partners.
Lead advisor: Jonas P. Knudsen Technology Deal of the Year. M&A International Inc.’s member in Spain, Closa Corporate Finance Advisors, assisted by M&A International Inc.’s member in Boston, TM Capital Corp., for advising on a buy mandate for Telvent.
Lead advisor: José F. Alvarez About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc. offers the unparalleled resources of over 600 professionals in 44 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 39 countries. All our members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. In 2008, our members closed 258 transactions worth $16.9 billion.
www.mergers.net For further information, please contact: M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales +34 678 54 933 mailto:cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, +34 64 67 40 259, mailto:melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

Hitachi Consulting acquires London-based Edenbrook Ltd.

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 17:02:00 +0200

United Kingdom │ United States Hitachi Consulting is the global business and IT consulting arm of Hitachi, Ltd. (NYSE: HIT, TSE: 6501), with offices throughout the United States, Asia and Europe. Hitachi Consulting retained M&A International Inc.’s Boston-based member, TM Capital Corp., and our member in the UK, Smith & Williamson Corporate Finance Limited, to assist with its acquisition strategy to strengthen service offerings and geographic reach in Europe.

Edenbrook Ltd., based in London, is an IT consultancy that helps organizations to evaluate, select, and implement advanced IT solutions using technologies such as ERP, CRM and Business Intelligence.

Our member in Boston assisted Hitachi Consulting in identifying and pursuing select business and IT strategy consulting targets in Europe, as well as structuring and negotiating the terms of the transaction. With the highest partnership status of Microsoft and Oracle, Edenbrook is expected to significantly strengthen Hitachi Consulting’s practice in the UK, particularly in these key focus areas.

M&A International Inc. member Capital Partners voted “Financial Advisor of the Year” in Romania

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 22:56:00 +0100

March 2009. M&A International Inc.’s Romanian member Capital Partners has been voted Financial Advisor of the Year by a select panel of specialists at the 4th edition of the Business Review Investment Awards Gala event.

Northern Ireland Electricity sells its subsidiary System Operator Northern Ireland Ltd. to EirGrid plc

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 09:27:00 +0100

Ireland │ United Kingdom M&A International Inc.’s Irish member advised Northern Ireland Electricity plc (NIE) on the disposal of its subsidiary, System Operator Northern Ireland Ltd (SONI), to EirGrid plc (EirGrid).

In its role as the electricity Transmission System Operator (TSO) in Northern Ireland, SONI is responsible for ensuring the safe, secure and economic operation of the electricity transmission network in Northern Ireland. It is located in Castlereagh, southeast of Belfast. SONI and EirGrid, the TSO in the Republic of Ireland, are already partners in the Single Electricity Market Operator (SEMO) joint venture, which carries out the role of market operator for the all-island wholesale Single Electricity Market. EirGrid was established in 2006 as the independent state-owned company responsible for the operation of the national grid. EirGrid has extensive international experience, including consultancy work in the US and Europe and as Transmission Administrator in Alberta, Canada for a number of years. The sale was consistent with the agreement reached by NIE with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment and the Northern Ireland Authority for Utility Regulation to divest SONI in order to further enhance the independence of the TSO in Northern Ireland. Completion of the deal followed changes to the licenses of both SONI and EirGrid, which were approved by the regulatory authorities following a public consultation process.

M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance rated “Top Financial Advisor for the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland” by Corpfin

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 16:40:00 +0100

January 2009. IBI Corporate Finance advised on more deals in 2008 than any of its rivals in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, according to the latest figures from Corpfin, the global M&A analyst, which is part of Experian Group. IBI Corporate Finance, which has offices in Belfast and Dublin, advised on 12 announced deals (valued at Stg£500,000 plus) in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland in 2008.

International review ranks M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance as “Top Irish Corporate Finance Firm for 2008”

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 16:54:00 +0100

January 2009. M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance has been ranked as the No. 1 corporate finance advisor in Ireland in the annual review of international M&A activity by specialist M&A publisher, mergermarket. This is the fourth successive year that IBI has been ranked No. 1.

IBI topped the league table for the number of transactions on which it advised with a total of 11 qualifying deals in 2008. The company was also ranked top in 2007, 2006 and 2005 with 14, 19 and 14 qualifying deals respectively.

Commenting on the announcement, Roisin Brennan, IBI Executive Chairman, said: "The drivers behind corporate transactions changed during 2008 but the appetite to do deals remained high and we expect that to continue through 2009. Consolidation is likely to become more and more important as companies seek economies of scale in a more difficult environment. We also expect that well-resourced companies will take advantage of the lower valuations that now apply to expand their interests and lay the foundations for future growth."

Record number of delegates meet to discuss M&A and generate deal opportunities

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 12:12:00 +0100

Milan, 21 November 2008. Alberto Alesina, Professor of Political Economy at Harvard University, comments on future prospects during the 8th M&A Mid-Market Forum held in Milan. The 8th M&A International Inc. Mid-Market Forum, held in Milan, Italy on 21 November, was attended by over 350 senior industrialists, M&A advisors and bankers. Professor Alberto Alesina opened the Forum by sharing his views on the current global financial crisis. He noted that the crisis has generated a large anti-market reaction and even a more anti-liberism retort, with talk of the end of capitalism, the death of the financial system, the return to state intervention, the end of globalization and state supremacy over the market. However, noting that the past 20 years have seen a level of economic stability and growth never previously experienced, Professor Alesina expressed optimism that the combined efforts being made by both developed and developing economies would see a relatively quick return to stability and growth. Following Professor Alesina’s presentation, a panel of experts from Thomson Reuters, UniCredit, the Hay Group, and Arietti & Associati considered potential measures which could be taken to promote growth and allow confidence to return to the markets. The audience of over 350 industrialists, advisors and senior bankers also expressed their views on these measures via a live voting system. The key conclusions were:

Taxation policy has limited ability to immediately resolve the current crisis
The Private Equity industry will not be shut down by the credit crunch
Corporates will continue to prefer acquisitions over organic expansion to achieve growth
Many of the recent, hastily put-together acquisitions will have significant problems regarding integration
M&A opportunities will be greatest in China, and Central and Eastern Europe

The record number of attendees at the 8th M&A Mid-Market Forum clearly indicates that despite the current market situation, the appetite for doing deals remains high. The event focuses on generating M&A deal activity, and is based on a “speed-dating format”. In total over 1,300 one-to-one meetings were held during the Forum. --------- END --------- Notes
Alberto Alesina Professor of Political Economy – Harvard University
Alberto Alesina, born in Italy in 1957, is the Nathaniel Ropes Professor of Political Economy at Harvard University. He served as Chairman of the Department of Economics from 2003–2006. He obtained his PhDfrom Harvard in 1986. He is also a member of the National Bureau of Economic Research and the Center for Economic Policy Research. He is a leader in the field of Political Economics and has published extensively in all major academic journals in economics. He has published five books and edited many more. His two most recent books are The Future of Europe: Reform or Decline and Fighting Poverty in the US and Europe: A World of Difference, published by Oxford University Press. He has been a Co-Editor of the Quarterly Journal of Economics for eight years and Associate Editor of many academic journals. He has published columns in many leading newspapers around the world and has visited several institutions including MIT, Tel Aviv University, University of Stockholm, The World Bank and the IMF. About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc., established in 1985, offers the unparalleled resources of 41 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 39 countries. The members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures.

Focused on the middle market, M&A International Inc. members closed 380 deals in 2007 worth more than $21 billion. For further information, please visit www.mergers.net For further information, please contact: M&A International Inc.
Christopher Scales +34 678 54 933 mailto:cps@mergers.net
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, +34 64 67 40 259, mailto:melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

3rd annual M&A International Inc. Media Awards 2008

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 11:59:00 +0100

13 journalists from 7 countries awarded First placed winners: Michael Flaherty and Jonathan Keehner (Hong Kong, New York, Reuters)
Anna Ekelund and Anders Billing (Sweden, Affärsvärlden)
Sarah Young (UK, Acquisitions Monthly)
Neil Hume (UK, Financial Times) Milan, 21 November 2008. M&A International Inc., the world’s leading alliance of mid-market M&A advisory and investment banking firms with 41 members operating in 39 countries, is pleased to announce the winners of the third M&A International Media Awards. In total, 13 journalists from 7 countries were awarded prizes during the gala dinner of the annual M&A Mid-Market Forum, held on 21 November in Milan, Italy. The winning articles were selected by an independent jury from over 200 articles submitted by 126 journalists from 24 countries. The M&A International Media Awards recognize the achievements of journalists who have contributed in an outstanding way to the understanding and professional analysis of the global mergers and acquisitions market. The prize money of US$12,000 is divided across three categories each with a first, second and third place, recognizing incisive and independent comment that upholds the journalistic principles of accuracy and objectivity. These unprecedented awards are a global reference for excellence in M&A journalism. A special prize was also awarded to the best scoop article across all three media categories. The winners are: General Print Press and News Agencies - English language 1st    LBO exposure may hit Bear Stearns, Lehman
Reuters, 03.08.2007
Michael Flaherty, Hong Kong and Jonathan Keehner, New York 2nd    Google slams Microsoft - Yahoo bid
The Globe and Mail, 04.02.2008
Matt Hartley, Canada 3rd    Delta Two in Pounds 12bn move on Sainsbury
Financial Times, 18.07.2007
Lina Saigol, UK General Print Press and News Agencies - other languages 1st    En osannolik affär (An Unbelievable Deal)
Affärsvärlden, 03.10.2007
Anna Ekelund and Anders Billing, Sweden 2nd    La Fiesta de la liquidez pasa factura al corazón financiero
(The liquidity party makes the claim on the heart of the financial industry)
El Economista, 04.12.2007
Pedro Calvo, Spain 3rd    Rolle Vorwärts (Rolling Forward)
Handelsblatt, 30.06.2008
Hans G. Nagl, Germany Trade Press and Electronic Media - all languages 1st    Pharmaceuticals - Losing their grip
Acquisitions Monthly, 01.06.2008
Sarah Young, UK 2nd    Not so fair trade
FinanceAsia, 01.04.2008
Sameera Anand, Hong Kong 3rd    Yahoo ripe for a shake-up
breakingviews.com, 17.01.2008
Rob Cox and Jeff Segal, USA Special Award for the Best Scoop Article - all languages Bud and Becks
Financial Times - Alphaville, 23.05.2008
Neil Hume, UK Note to editors:
A book of this year’s winning articles is available for download below. About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc., established in 1985, offers the unparalleled resources of 41 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 39 countries. The members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. Focused on the middle market, M&A International Inc. members closed 380 deals in 2007 worth more than $21 billion. For further information, please visit www.mergers.net About the M&A International Media Awards
The M&A International Media Awards are the first and only global media awards for journalists reporting on mergers and acquisitions. The winners are selected by an independent international jury of M&A professionals, academics and senior journalists: Dr. Hans Bethge, M&A International Inc. (Germany); Prof. Umberto Bocchino, Studio Bocchino (Italy); John Jay, New Star (UK); N.K. Misra, Tata Steel (India); Matthew Porzio, IntraLinks Inc. (USA); Raimon Segura de Lassaletta, Cuatrecasas (Spain); David Shirreff, The Economist (UK/Germany); Howard E. Steinberg, McDermott Will & Emery (USA); Dr. Hong Zhang, Deutsche Bank Institute (China). Comments on winning articles
LBO exposure may hit Bear Stearns, Lehman
Reuters, 03.08.2007 by Michael Flaherty, Hong Kong and Jonathan Keehner, New York Michael Flaherty's and Jonathan Keehner’s article pointed out the danger Bear Stearns and Lehman Brothers faced with their exposure to leveraged loans they made to the private equity industry. They indicated that while subprime exposure was a concern at both banks, their loan portfolios only worsened their plight. The article was written at the very beginning of August last year and proved to be devastatingly correct. En osannolik affär (An Unbelievable Deal)
Affärsvärlden, 03.10.2007 by Anna Ekelund and Anders Billing, Sweden This article explored the bidding war for the Nordic exchange group OMX. Anna and Anders mapped out the struggle behind the scenes and the characters involved through a detailed chronology that makes you feel like you are living the experience. This was a fascinating and well researched piece. Comment from Affarsvarlden:
“We are incredibly happy to receive this award, considering the high quality of the competition and since the M&A world and large merger processes are at the heart of Affärsvärldens coverage. The OMX story was especially interesting and challenging since it brought a small Nordic exchange group to center stage of the financial world. It contained everything from world politics to a personal vendetta between two old friends.” Pharmaceuticals - Losing their grip
Acquisitions Monthly, 01.06.2008 by Sarah Young, UK This article was written in June and explored how the traditional model for pharmaceutical companies is broken and how new drug development increasingly comes from biotechs whilst pharmaceuticals morph into acquisitive sales and marketing giants. Bud and Becks
Financial Times - Alphaville, 23.05.2008 by Neil Hume, UK Neil Hume's winning article looked at InBev's rumored takeover approach for Anheuser-Busch. In landing the full details of InBev's plans, Neil managed to break the news on the largest ever all-cash takeover involving a truly iconic American company. For further information, please contact: M&A International Inc.
Melanie Berthelot-Verhaeghe, +34 93 209 22 00, melanie.berthelot@mergers.net

3rd annual M&A International Media Awards

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 18:00:00 +0200

18 September 2008. M&A International Inc. (MAI), the world’s leading alliance of mid-market M&A advisory and investment banking firms with 41 members operating in 40 countries, announced today that the close of entry for submissions for the M&A International Media Awards 2008 has been extended to 26 September 2008. The prize money totals US$12,000 and will be divided across three categories each with a first, second and third place. Detailed conditions of entry including the electronic entry form are available on MAI’s website. MAI has established sophisticated procedures which allow journalists reporting on mergers and acquisitions around the globe to submit their original articles in any language. Hans Bethge, Vice President of M&A International Inc., said: “Last year 115 journalists from 24 countries submitted 223 articles for the M&A International Media Awards. Rewarding intelligent and incisive comment that upholds the journalistic principles of accuracy and objectivity, this unprecedented prize is the truly global reference for excellence in M&A journalism.” Award-winning articles from the last two years were published in leading publications such as the Financial Times, International Herald Tribune, Reuters, The Sunday Times, Private Equity International, Finance Asia, Berlingske Nyhedsmagasin (Denmark), Neue Zuercher Zeitung (Switzerland), Economy (Italy) and Finance (Germany). MAI awards individual journalists who have contributed in an outstanding way to the understanding and professional analysis of the global mergers and acquisitions market. The awards cover the “big ticket” deals as well as the rapidly growing mid-market M&A activities. The jury focuses on well-researched deal reports and comprehensive market analysis by regions or industries, although scoops and commentaries can also be rewarded. MAI will accept entries from journalists writing for internationally distributed print media in English as well as for leading business newspapers and magazines in their home countries in English or local languages. Articles published by news agencies or electronic trade media will also be accepted excluding broadcast reporting (television or radio). Submitted articles must have been published between 1 July 2007 and 30 June 2008. The number of entries is limited to three articles per journalist. The prize will be awarded in three categories by an independent specialist jury under the criteria content, quality of research and style. The categories are:

General print press and news agencies – English language (1st–3rd prize)
General print press and news agencies – other languages (1st–3rd prize)
Trade print and electronic media – all languages (1st–3rd prize)

A special prize will be awarded to the best scoop article across all three media categories. The winners will be invited to join the 8th annual M&A Mid Market Forum (MMF), a leading global industry event attended by 400 M&A professionals from more than 35 countries (www.midmarketforum.com). This year, the MMF will take place in Milan on 21 November 2008. The winners will receive their prize during the event’s gala dinner. Winners of the first place for each of the three categories will be awarded US$1,500 (plus travel expenses to Milan plus accommodation). Second place awards will receive US$1,000 (plus accommodation) and US$1,000 for third place. The best scoop article across all three media categories will be awarded US$1,500 (plus travel expenses and accommodation). Senior M&A experts from all regions of the world representing business, the academic world and the media will serve on the jury. The jury members are: Dr. Hans Bethge, M&A International Inc. (Germany); Prof. Umberto Bocchino, Studio Bocchino (Italy); John Jay, New Star (UK); N.K. Misra, Tata Steel (India); Matthew Porzio, IntraLinks Inc. (USA); Raimon Segura de Lassaletta, Cuatrecasas (Spain); David Shirreff, The Economist (UK); Howard E. Steinberg, McDermott Will & Emery (USA); Dr. Hong Zhang, Deutsche Bank Institute (China). For further information, please contact: Northoff.Com Public Relations, Frankfurt/Main,
Karoline Lazaj, +49 (0)69 952977-00 (-40 direct), mai@northoff.com Penrose Financial, London
Andrew Nicolls, +44 (0)20 7786 4881, andrewn@penrose.co.uk About M&A International Inc.
M&A International Inc., established in 1985, offers the unparalleled resources of 41 M&A advisory and investment banking firms operating in 40 countries. The members are closely linked in a global alliance to advise clients on acquisitions, divestitures, funding and joint ventures. Focused on the middle market, M&A International Inc. members closed 380 deals in 2007 worth more than $21 billion. For further information, please visit www.mergers.net.

Euromoney awards M&A International Inc. member GILD Bankers “Best M&A House in Estonia”

Fri, 08 Aug 2008 16:31:00 +0200

August 2008. Prominent international finance magazine Euromoney recognised an M&A International Inc. member and leading independent Baltic investment bank GILD Bankers as the Best M&A House in Estonia in the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2008. Euromoney cited a number of innovative and market leading transactions with a total value of €163.8 milion in the assessed period. In awarding GILD Bankers this prestigious award, Euromoney recognized the impressive track record of GILD Bankers across a number of sectors: “With transaction activity across the online media, real estate and retail sectors, GILD is rapidly gaining a name for itself in Estonia’s buzzing M&A market.” In 2007, GILD Bankers completed several landmark transactions in online media, for example arranging the sale of popular web portals auto24.ee and www.cvkeskus.ee. In addition, GILD advised the leading pan-Baltic car retail group ELKE in the sale of shares to Amber Trust, the leading distributor of alcoholic beverages in the Baltics L.I.O.N. & Ko in the sale to Liviko and Olympic Entertainment Group, the leading gaming and entertainment group in CEE, in acquiring casino operator Kristiine Kasiino. In 2007, the GILD Investment Banking team was involved in 17 advisory projects with the total value of over €380 million whereas 11 of them were mergers and acquisitons. Since 1999, GILD has advised and successfully completed more than 130 transactions with a combined value of around €3 billion. GILD Bankers has been a member of the world's leading M&A alliance, M&A International Inc. for 5 years.

A record third “Corporate Finance Boutique of the Year Award” for M&A International Inc. member Cavendish

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:12:00 +0100

January 2008. M&A International Inc.'s member in the UK, Cavendish Corporate Finance, has begun its 20th anniversary year in dazzling style by achieving the enviable accolade of winning its third Corporate Finance Boutique award in twelve months; the firm picked up the Acquisitions Monthly award at the London ceremony last night (22 January 2008). Against strong competition, the Awards’ panel of judges praised Cavendish’s innovative and thorough approach to deal making. Particular mention was made of both Cavendish’s Exit Review plan, which is aimed specifically at enhancing value and positioning businesses for sale during the 6–18 months prior to commencing a sale exercise, and the firm’s active involvement as a member of M&A International Inc., the world’s leading M&A alliance. During 2007 Cavendish was named ‘Corporate Finance Boutique of the Year’ at the BVCA Real Deals Private Equity Awards in April, and collected the Private Equity News Award for ‘Excellence in Advisory Services’ in October. Howard Leigh, Managing Director of Cavendish, commented:
“Like buses, after 20 years we win 3 in a row! This is a great way to start our 20th birthday celebrations.” “2007 has been an outstanding year for Cavendish with 30 successfully completed deals, many of which have been undertaken with the major private equity houses.” Cavendish was established in 1988 as a specialist M&A boutique and since then has completed the sale of some 400 businesses. As a vendor-only specialist, Cavendish is ideally placed to help entrepreneurs and other business owners achieve their objectives.

MAI

Dümmen merges with Agribio Group

M&A International Inc. Energy Infrastructure – Construction & Engineering Services (CES): M&A Opportunities in a Rapidly Changing Global Energy Economy

Sulzer acquires Krøger A/S

Spring is in the air at M&A International Inc. The new season sees acknowledgement of outstanding cooperation between its members, further development of its media expertise and expansion of its global footprint

Tetra Tech Inc. acquires Parkland Pipeline Contractors Ltd.

Balda AG builds medical segment with two US acquisitions

M&A International Inc. member Petercam awarded number 1 Equity Finance House of 2012 on NYSE Euronext Brussels

A-Med Health Care sells its medical supplies division to Byram Healthcare Centers, Inc.

M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance named as top corporate financial advisor for eighth year in a row

Centrovet sells a 51% equity interest to Virbac

FLSmidth & Co. A/S acquires Decanter Machine, Inc.

M&A International Inc. expands its global footprint and deepens its industry expertise

M&A International Inc. Oilfield Equipment and Services: Merge or Acquire for a Well-Oiled Future

TecniKabel and Cable Corporation of India Ltd. join forces

Dansk Bygningsanalyse AS is acquired by Shield Group International

M&A International Inc. Equity Capital Markets: Update for the half-year ended 30 June 2012

Thomson Reuters acquires Lex Nova

DCC Healthcare acquires Midsona Manufacturing AB

M&A International Inc. acknowledges the outstanding cooperation between its members at the closing dinner of its 2012 Spring Conference in Berlin, Germany

M&A International Inc. Cosmetics, Jewelry & Accessories Retailers M&A Outlook: If You Can’t Be Them, Buy Them

NASDAQ OMX acquires BWise B.V.

River Cities Capital Funds sells Galaxy Associates, Inc. to DuBois Chemicals, Inc., a portfolio company of The Riverside Company

M&A International Inc. Hospitals and Clinics M&A Outlook: What’s the Prognosis for Deal Making?

Donald Russell is acquired by Vestey Food Group

Saudi Almarai acquires Argentina’s Fondomonte from Irish and British investors for US$83 million

M&A International Inc. Automotive M&A Outlook: Why Build When You Can Buy?

M&A International Inc. Equity Capital Markets: Update for the half-year ended 31 December 2011

M&A International Inc. member Holland Corporate Finance wins two industry awards

Investor Group acquires Walkro International B.V. from Bencis Capital Partners B.V.

Rosti Group sells Rosti B.V. to Helvoet Holding B.V.

M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance ranked No. 1 financial advisor for seventh year in a row

Radical Sportscars sells a minority stake to private individuals

Indian corporates meet M&A International Inc. members to discuss business opportunities during the Cross-Border M&A Forum India

M&A International Inc. member Cavendish Corporate Finance wins Corporate Finance Boutique of the Year

Valindus acquires ALUK Group

M&A International Inc. Technology M&A Outlook: Has the Era of Irrational Exuberance Returned?

Vention Medical, Inc. acquires Ansamed Ltd

M&A International Inc. Electrical Installation Services M&A Outlook: Making the Right Connections

Maabarot Products Ltd. acquires Laboratoria Natury

Sony acquires Hawk-Eye

Bank of Ireland Group sells Bank of Ireland Securities Services to Northern Trust

M&A International Inc. expands its global footprint with representation in 41 countries

Coveright sells its Spanish subsidiary to Sherpa Capital

Kneipp France acquires Pierre Cattier

M&A International Inc. Wine Industry M&A Outlook

Paddy Power acquires remaining minority shareholding in Sportsbet

Bidvest Group acquires Seafood Holdings Limited

Rexel acquires Nortel Suprimentos Industriais SA

M&A International Inc. member Holland Corporate Finance wins two industry awards

Time/system acquires SRT International

M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance ranked No. 1 financial advisor for sixth year in a row

M&A International Inc. member Cavendish Corporate Finance LLP wins three industry awards

M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance awarded 2010 "Financial Advisor of the Year" for Ireland at the Financial Times and Mergermarket Group European M&A Awards

Thermax buys Danstoker and German subsidiary Omnical Kessel

3D Systems acquires Provel

M&A International Inc. expands its global footprint and sector expertise

Xendo Holding B.V. has sold Xendo Drug Development B.V. to QPS Holding, LLC

M&A International Inc. Real Estate M&A and the State of the Commercial Real Estate Markets: Opportunities Abound – 2010

ESB to acquire Northern Ireland Electricity

M&A International Inc. Infrastructure Construction M&A: Opportunities in Adversity – August 2010

EOS Group enters into joint venture with subsidiary of the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, CreditCN

M&A International Inc. Alternative Energy Industry M&A Overview – June 2010

Felix Abba acquires Kalev Chocolate Factory

Lavazza acquires Onda Coffee Break

Despite the recent travel difficulties, 228 attendees from over 40 countries met to discuss M&A and generate deal opportunities in Stockholm

Life Technologies Corp. acquires Limerick-based biotechnology firm Stokes Bio Ltd

M&A International Inc. Quarterly Mid-Market Report Q1 2010

Konrad Hornschuch AG acquires O’Sullivan Films, Inc.

M&A International Inc. eTailing Industry M&A Overview – March 2010

Kiri Dyes & Chemicals Ltd acquires Dystar Group from its Insolvency Administrators

M&A International Inc. Quarterly Mid-Market Report Q4 2009

Acentic sells controlling stake to PhilWeb Corporation and ISM Communications Corp

M&A International Inc. member IBI Corporate Finance ranked as No. 1 financial advisor in Ireland by mergermarket

M&A International Inc. Healthcare Industry M&A Overview – Fall 2009

MasTec acquires Precision Pipeline

M&A International Inc. Quarterly Mid-Market Report Q3 2009

3TS Capital Partners acquires a minority stake in Romania’s InternetCorp

M&A International Inc. expands its global footprint and reports a strong rebound in M&A activity

Tullett Prebon has entered into an agreement to acquire Convenção Corretora de Valores e Câmbio

M&A International Inc. Cosmetics, Jewelry & Accessories Retailers M&A Outlook:  If You Can’t Be Them, Buy Them