Sprints Partners with Styria for Adevinta's Stake in Willhaben
Deal News | Mar 14, 2025 | CEE Legal Matters
In a strategic partnership, European growth investor Sprints, in collaboration with Styria Media Group, is set to acquire all of Adevinta's shares in the Austrian digital consumer marketplace, Willhaben. The transaction, which still requires regulatory approval, aims to capitalize on Sprints' expertise in online marketplaces and Styria's strong local market presence. Adevinta, an online classifieds group, is advised by Freshfields, while Sprints is advised by Dorda, and Styria Media Group is advised by E+H. Sprints' Managing Partner, Henrik Persson, highlighted Willhaben's strong brand presence in Austria and the partnership's potential to foster further growth and innovation. The Dorda team of several legal practitioners is supported by Freshfields' Vienna-based and international members, alongside E+H's advisory team.
Sectors
- Media and Digital Marketplaces
- Legal Services
Geography
- Austria – Willhaben is an Austrian digital consumer marketplace, and Styria Media Group is an Austrian company, central to the transaction.
Industry
- Media and Digital Marketplaces – The article involves Styria Media Group, a media company, and Willhaben, a digital consumer marketplace. It highlights strategic moves within the media and online classifieds sectors.
- Legal Services – Multiple law firms, including Dorda, Freshfields, and E+H, are involved in advising different parties in the transaction.
Financials
- Not Disclosed – The financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sprints | Buyer | Company | European growth investor involved in acquiring shares of Willhaben. |
| Styria Media Group | Buyer | Company | Austrian media group partnering with Sprints to acquire Willhaben shares. |
| Adevinta | Seller | Company | Online classifieds group selling its shares in Willhaben. |
| Willhaben | Target | Company | Austrian digital consumer marketplace with a strong local user base. |
| Dorda | Legal Advisor | Company | Advising Sprints on its partnership with Styria Media Group. |
| Freshfields | Legal Advisor | Company | Advising Adevinta in the transaction. |
| E+H | Legal Advisor | Company | Advising Styria Media Group in the transaction. |