Best Merger & Acquisition Lawyers in Katerini

1. About Merger & Acquisition Law in Katerini, Greece

Merger and acquisition law in Greece is shaped by national competition rules and EU law. In practice, any significant concentration that affects competition must be reviewed by the Hellenic Competition Commission (HCC). This review process applies whether the deal is headed by a Katerini-based company or a national market participant.

For local dealmakers in Katerini, the key objective is to complete a transaction while ensuring compliance with notification requirements, due diligence standards, and post-merger integration rules. Greece follows the EU framework, which means that large cross-border transactions may involve both EU and national authorities.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need specialized Merger & Acquisition legal counsel in Katerini for concrete, non generic reasons. Here are real-world scenarios relevant to the region:

Scenario 1: Local manufacturing acquisition with potential market dominance - A Katerini-based manufacturing firm seeks to acquire a competitor operating in Northern Greece. A lawyer can assess whether the deal triggers merger control, advise on disclosures, and prepare the notification to HCC.

Scenario 2: Asset purchase with employee transfer and non compete terms - A buyer plans to acquire a local plant and transfer staff. A lawyer helps structure the deal to satisfy Greek employment and competition rules, draft non compete provisions, and coordinate employment law compliance.

Scenario 3: Cross-border element in a Katerini transaction - If the target has regional operations in Greece and neighboring countries, counsel can navigate EU merger regulation thresholds and coordinate between Greek and EU authorities.

Scenario 4: HCC requests information after a notification - The HCC may request documentation or clarifications; a lawyer coordinates a timely, complete response and preserves privilege where possible.

Scenario 5: Tax and corporate structure considerations - M&A in Greece often requires structuring for tax efficiency and corporate governance under Greek company law before completing the deal. A local attorney can align the transaction with AADE reporting and Greek corporate norms.

Scenario 6: Complex due diligence in the Central Macedonia market - A target in Katerini may have local permits, environmental considerations, or sector-specific approvals; counsel coordinates due diligence, data room access, and risk assessment.

3. Local Laws Overview

The Greek M&A framework integrates national competition law and EU rules. Below are two to three specific laws/regulations commonly referenced in Katerini M&A deals, with notes on scope and relevance.

Law 3959/2011 on the Protection of Competition - This is the central Greek statute governing merger control and anti trust issues. The law, amended over time, directs how concentrations are notified to the Hellenic Competition Commission and how authorities assess market impact. It is complemented by HCC guidelines and EU competition principles.

Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 on the control of concentrations between undertakings - The EU Merger Regulation applies to concentrations with cross border effects or significant Greek involvement. Greece implements this Regulation through national procedures, and it shapes the timelines and criteria for clearance.

Law 2190/1920 on Sociétés Anonymes (S.A.) and related corporate law provisions - This legacy company law governs corporate restructuring, share exchanges, and changes in ownership structures typical of M&A. It remains relevant for the mechanics of mergers and the formal steps to merge or acquire share capital in Greek incorporated entities.

Note: The HCC has published updated guidance and timelines for concentrations in recent years to reflect EU practice and local market conditions in 2020-2023. See the HCC official resources for current timelines and thresholds.

Recent enforcement trends in Greece show growing alignment with EU standards and clearer guidance on notification thresholds and documentation. For practitioners in Katerini, it is important to consult the official sources prior to drafting notices or negotiating terms.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is a concentration under Greek competition law?

A concentration occurs when two or more undertakings merge, or when one acquires control over another. The HCC reviews such deals to assess effects on competition in Greece.

How do I start a merger notification with the HCC in Greece?

Begin with a qualified notification package describing the parties, deals, and market impact. Engage Greek counsel to prepare the filing and coordinate with HCC for any clarifications.

When is a Greek merger required to be notified to the HCC?

Notification is required if the deal meets statutory thresholds and falls within the HCC's jurisdiction. A lawyer can confirm whether your transaction triggers review.

Where can I find official guidance on Greek merger procedures?

Official guidance is available on the Hellenic Competition Commission website and the EU competition portal. These sources provide criteria, timelines, and filing requirements.

Why should I hire local Greek counsel for an M&A in Katerini?

Local counsel understands Greek corporate practice, tax reporting via AADE, and regional regulatory considerations that national firms may overlook.

Do I need to involve cross border aspects in my Katerini deal?

If the deal has cross border effects within the EU, EU Merger Regulation applies, and coordination with EU authorities may be necessary.

Is it possible to complete an M&A without a lawyer in Greece?

While possible in simple cases, professional guidance reduces risk, ensures compliance with HCC rules, and facilitates post closing integration.

How long does the HCC review typically take?

Review durations vary by complexity; straightforward cases may complete in weeks, while complex deals may extend to several months.

What documents are typically required for notification to the HCC?

Common documents include corporate structure, financial statements, market shares, IP rights schedules, and any non compete or asset transfer terms.

Do I need to consider employee transfers in an M&A in Greece?

Yes, employee transfers implicate Greek labor law and may require notification to or consultation with employee representatives.

What is the difference between a share deal and an asset deal in M&A?

A share deal transfers ownership via shares of the target company, while an asset deal transfers specific assets and liabilities. Each has different regulatory and tax implications.

Can I negotiate post closing covenants in a Greek M&A?

Post closing covenants, including non compete and non solicitation obligations, are common but must comply with Greek contractual and competition rules.

5. Additional Resources

Hellenic Competition Commission (HCC) - National authority for competition law, including merger control and enforcement. Function: review concentrations, issue decisions, and publish guidelines. hcc.gr

European Commission - Competition (Mergers) - EU level guidance on merger control, cross border transactions, and enforcement. Function: provide procedural rules and decision making at the EU level. ec.europa.eu/competition

Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) - Greek tax authority responsible for revenue collection, tax compliance, and related reporting for M&A transactions. Function: issue tax guidelines relevant to acquisitions and corporate restructurings. aade.gr

6. Next Steps

1. Identify the deal type and scope - determine if it is a share deal, asset deal, or a combination of both and map the regional implications for Katerini.
2. Engage a Greek M&A attorney with experience in competition, corporate law, and taxation who can assess notification thresholds and prepare documentation.
3. Consolidate due diligence files - gather financial statements, regulatory permits, IP schedules, employment arrangements, and environmental records relevant to the target in Central Macedonia.
4. Consult HCC guidance and pre notify - obtain a preliminary assessment from counsel about whether a formal notification is required and plan the filing timeline.
5. Draft the notification and ancillary documents - prepare comprehensive disclosures, market definitions, and remedy proposals if needed.
6. Submit the notification to HCC and respond to requests - assign responsibilities to respond quickly to HCC inquiries and maintain an organized data room.
7. Coordinate post closing integration - align corporate governance, tax reporting, and employment matters with Greek law and EU requirements.