Citic Europe: Sale of Invia Group for 250 Million
Deal News | May 20, 2025 | Stephenson Harwood LLP
Stephenson Harwood LLP has successfully advised Citic Europe Holdings A.S. on the strategic sale of its 60% stake in the Invia Group, alongside Rockaway Capital Group, to Wirtualna Polska. This transaction, valued at 250 million, involves Invia Group, a prominent online travel agency in Central and Eastern Europe with over 1,200 employees. Stephenson Harwood played a crucial role in navigating complex multi-jurisdictional issues, underscoring the significance of this disposal for Citic Europe Holdings. The legal advisory was led by corporate partner Jay Ze, along with a diverse team from the firm's offices in London and Hong Kong, demonstrating extensive expertise in corporate, commercial litigation, and employment law.
Sectors
- Legal Services
- Travel & Tourism
- Investment & Financial Services
Geography
- Central and Eastern Europe – Invia Group's operations are primarily based in Central and Eastern Europe, marking it as a significant geographical area of interest for the business.
- Poland – Wirtualna Polska, the acquiring company, is based in Poland, making the country central to the transaction.
- United Kingdom – Stephenson Harwood's involvement, with offices in the UK, underscores the geographical link to the United Kingdom.
- Hong Kong – The Hong Kong office of Stephenson Harwood was part of the advisory team, highlighting a significant geographical connection.
Industry
- Legal Services – Stephenson Harwood LLP provided legal advisory services for the transaction, highlighting the role of legal services in complex corporate sales.
- Travel & Tourism – Invia Group operates within the travel and tourism sector as a leading online travel agency in Central and Eastern Europe.
- Investment & Financial Services – The transaction involves Citic Europe Holdings, a part of Citic Group, indicating significant investment and financial activities.
Financials
- 250 million – The sale price of Invia Group to Wirtualna Polska.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Citic Europe Holdings A.S. | Seller | Company | A European holding entity under Citic Group holding a 60% stake in Invia Group. |
| Invia Group | Target | Company | A leading online travel agency in Central and Eastern Europe with over 1,200 employees. |
| Wirtualna Polska | Buyer | Company | Polish-based company acquiring Invia Group in this transaction. |
| Stephenson Harwood LLP | Legal Advisor | Company | A law firm advising Citic Europe Holdings on the sale of Invia Group. |
| Rockaway Capital Group | Co-Seller | Company | Co-owner alongside Citic Europe Holdings in European Bridge Travel (EBT) group. |