The legally independent Katjesgreenfood GmbH + Co. KG is based in Düsseldorf together with its two sister companies Katjes Fassin GmbH & Co. KG and Katjes International GmbH + Co. KG form the Katjes Group. As a company that operates internationally, Katjes Greenfood invests in innovative food companies whose plant-based products are shaping the food market's shift towards greater sustainability. The acquisition of Genius Foods, the market leader for gluten-free baking goods in the UK and No.2 in Europe, and headquartered in Edinburgh, represented further commitment to Katjes Greenfoods' international growth strategy.
Together with Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, we handled all UK law aspects of this deal, demonstrating in-depth sector knowledge. The transaction involved input from our Scottish and English real estate, planning, tax, commercial services and employment specialists in relation to acquisition due diligence.
Our advice included assisting with the negotiation of the terms of the transaction, drafting all necessary documents and overseeing the due diligence and disclosure processes. The transaction also involved the use of drag along provisions on which we also provided advice.
Key highlights
- An opportunity to showcase our expertise in dealing with complex M&A at an international level (UK, Germany, France, USA, Australia).
- A cross border transaction involving international private equity processes, negotiation, and terms.
- Showcased the best of Brodies as a full-service UK law firm with international cross-border experience, providing specialist UK legal advice across multiple disciplines.
(The growth of the global market for gluten-free products)… makes gluten-free an ideal category for Katjes Greenfood, which, as a legally independent part of the Katjes Group, is investing in the future of nutrition outside of confectionery. The opportunity to become the market leader in a future category purchase is a unique opportunity for us.
Katjes Greenfood, Managing Partner, Tobias Bachmüller
Outcome
Brodies' involvement in this transaction demonstrates our position as the leading private equity and M&A advisory focused law firm in Scotland.
The transaction itself was a significant milestone for Katjes Greenfood, representing a unique opportunity to acquire a market leader in a future food category and opening up new markets as it continues to grow both nationally and internationally.
Contributors
Partner
Senior Associate