%20(1).jpg?v=1)
CMS advised TowerBrook Capital Partners, an international investment management firm with offices in New York and London, on the sale of AustroCel Hallein GmbH to Oji Holdings Corporation. AustroCel converts sustainably sourced waste wood into dissolving pulp, advanced bioethanol and biodegradable, microplastic-free hydrogel granules via a circular, zero-waste model. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies and strategic partnerships, the company advances a “full value of wood” approach, turning residual streams into higher-value products.
CMS acted as legal advisor to TowerBrook throughout the sale process, covering transaction structuring, due diligence, negotiation and signing of the transaction documents. Binding transaction documents were signed on 4 September 2025 and closing remains subject to approval by the relevant competition authorities. The CMS team was led by Partner Clemens Grossmayer and Senior Associate Christoph Birner.
Clemens Grossmayer, Partner at CMS, commented: “We are proud of having assisted TowerBrook from its original acquision of AustroCel, its subsequent transition from a dissolving pulp producer to one of Europe’s leading carbon converters and now the sale to Oji Holdings. This transaction highlights the growing strategic importance of innovative and sustainable biomass solutions in the global market.”
By advising on this sale, CMS underscores its leading position in supporting clients on complex international M&A transactions.
About TowerBrook
TowerBrook Capital Partners is an international investment management firm, co-headquartered in London and New York. TowerBrook champions founders, entrepreneurs and management teams as they grow and transform their companies, helping them become long-lasting leaders in their industries. TowerBrook has over $25 billion of assets under management and invests through private equity, structured opportunities, growth & impact, and strategic partnerships, offering flexibility across the capital structure. Since inception in 2000, the firm has invested in more than 110 companies across Europe and North America. TowerBrook is the first mainstream private equity firm to be certified as a B Corporation, demonstrating leadership in commitment to responsible business practices.
About AustroCel
AustroCel Hallein GmbH is an Austrian B Corp–certified biorefinery that converts sustainably sourced wood residues into dissolving pulp, bioethanol, and biodegradable hydrogel granules. It operates on a zero-waste circular model and joined TowerBrook’s portfolio in 2017.
About Oji Holdings Corporation
Oji Holdings Corporation, founded in 1873 and based in Tokyo, is a global leader in pulp and paper with around 38,000 employees. Its four segments—Household & Industrial Materials, Functional Materials, Resources & Environment, and Printing & Communications Media—drive the company’s sustainable forestry and packaging solutions.
