Axel Johnson Acquires La Fantana in Romanian Water-Cooler Market
Deal News | Nov 07, 2024 | CEE Legal Matters

DLA Piper has provided legal counsel to Axel Johnson in their recent acquisition of the Romanian water-cooler company La Fantana. The transaction sees Axel Johnson, a Swedish industrial group, acquire the majority stake in La Fantana from Oresa and the company's CEO, Cristian Amza, who will retain a 10% stake and remain in his role as CEO. The legal teams advising the Nordic investors were extensive, encompassing expertise from multiple international offices of DLA Piper. Meanwhile, Romanian law firm RTPR, in collaboration with A&O Shearman, advised the sellers, ensuring a balanced representation in the legal negotiations. This move signals Axel Johnson's strategic expansion into the Southeastern European market, specifically emphasizing their commitment to enhancing their industrial portfolio by venturing into the hydration solutions sector.
Sectors
- Industrial
- Legal Services
- Beverage
Geography
- Sweden – Axel Johnson, the acquiring company, is based in Sweden.
- Romania – La Fantana, the target company, is based and operates in Romania.
Industry
- Industrial – Axel Johnson, the acquirer, is an industrial group, indicating their operations and acquisitions are focused on this sector.
- Legal Services – The involvement of top legal firms like DLA Piper and RTPR highlights the article's connection to legal advisory services.
- Beverage – La Fantana operates in the water-cooler segment, relevant to the beverage industry.
Financials
- – The article does not provide specific financial details regarding the acquisition.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Axel Johnson | Acquiring Company | Company | A privately owned Swedish industrial group engaged in various sectors. |
| La Fantana | Target Company | Company | A Romanian company specializing in water cooler services. |
| Oresa | Selling Company | Company | Previous stakeholder in La Fantana, involved in divesting its stake. |
| Cristian Amza | CEO and Seller | Person | CEO of La Fantana, retains a 10% stake after the acquisition. |
| DLA Piper | Legal Advisor to Acquirer | Company | An international law firm advising Axel Johnson in the transaction. |
| RTPR | Legal Advisor to Sellers | Company | Romanian law firm advising the selling parties, including Oresa and Cristian Amza. |
| A&O Shearman | Legal Advisor to Sellers | Company | Collaborating with RTPR to advise the sellers. |