PLMJ and Morais Leitão Advise on MO and Zippy Buyout
Deal News | Jun 03, 2025 | Iberian Lawyer
PLMJ and Morais Leitão are advising a significant transaction involving the acquisition of MO and Zippy, both companies originating from Sonae Group's fashion division. The buyout is led by the companies' former management team, guided by Francisco Sousa Pimentel, in partnership with Mercrio Fund managed by Oxy Capital. MO and Zippy, known for their presence in the fashion sector with over 120 stores in Portugal and ties with international retailers, will sustain their operations under the leadership of Sousa Pimentel post-acquisition. Legal conditions, including a review by the Portuguese Competition Authority, are underway. The corporate M&A team from PLMJ includes key personnel such as Duarte Schmidt Lino and Filipa Martinho, among others.
Sectors
- Fashion and Retail
- Legal Services
- Private Equity
Geography
- Portugal – Both MO and Zippy have over 120 stores in Portugal and the transaction involves the Portuguese legal system.
Industry
- Fashion and Retail – MO and Zippy are major retailers in the fashion and accessories sector.
- Legal Services – PLMJ and Morais Leitão are providing legal advice for this transaction.
- Private Equity – The buyout is facilitated by a fund managed by Oxy Capital.
Financials
- – No specific financial details were provided in the article.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MO | Target | Company | A fashion retailer acquired from Sonae Group. |
| Zippy | Target | Company | A fashion and accessories retailer acquired from Sonae Group. |
| Sonae Group | Selling Company | Company | The group selling its fashion division assets, MO and Zippy. |
| Oxy Capital | Private Equity | Company | The management company of the Mercrio Fund, facilitating the acquisition. |
| Mercrio Fund | Investor | Business Entity | Fund managed by Oxy Capital involved in the buyout. |
| Francisco Sousa Pimentel | CEO | Person | Current CEO of MO who leads the management team for the acquisition. |
| PLMJ | Legal Advisor | Company | Provided legal advice to the acquiring management team. |
| Morais Leitão | Legal Advisor | Company | Provided legal advice to Sonae Group. |