Legal500

Aviation

2023: "The aviation team at CMS has a distinct focus on European regulatory and competition matters, which it handles for clients including public authorities, airport managers and infrastructure owners, ground handlers, and airlines. Annabelle Lepièce leads the team, and is particularly well regarded for her work for airports and on state aid matters. Notable support comes from competition lawyer Marguerite Soete. Testimonials: ‘It is easy to work with CMS and I can always trust them for professional help. It is very personal, but still highly professional always. Exceptional company. I can highly recommend them – and I have many times.’ - ‘Annabelle Lepièce is a one of a kind person to work with. She is committed to her work and always on top of knowledge and the business. My trust in her is full and if I ever have any special needs in my work, Annabelle is the one I contact. She is the best!’ - Key clients: French Airports Association, Aeroports de Catalunya, La Rochelle Airport, EasyJet, Sowaer, Aeroports de Catalunya, Oostende and Antwerpen airports, Béziers airport, Region Occitanie, Cluj Napoca Airport, Lille Airport, Strasbourg Airport, RODEZ Airport. Work highlights: Assisted Airports Council International on the revision of the European Commission Guidelines on state aid for climate, energy, and the protection of the environment. - Advised Aeroports de Catalunya on an incentive scheme for the development of new air routes. - Advised La Rochelle Airport in the context of an audit of the French regional court of auditors on contracts concluded between the airport and Ryanair in relation to state aid and public procurement issues." 

2022: "Led by Annabelle Lepièce, the team at CMS handles European and public regulatory and competition law matters for clients in the aviation sector, including state aid matters and regulatory investigations, alongside compliance matters in areas such as ground handling and security. The firm has a strong record in acting for airlines and airports, with a number of major Belgian and international clients. Lepièce has represented public sector clients up to European Commission level, and has a strong focus on air transportation and the aviation sector."

2021: "Led by Annabelle Lepièce, CMS' department stands out as 'the leading practice for aviation state aid matters at EU level'. The 'insightful and well-connected' team has expertise in acting for airlines and airports, with competition law-related investigations forming a notable part of the group's workload. Feedback from clients: ‘Annabelle Lepièce stands out for her expertise in aviation state aid matters – advising airlines and airports on groundbreaking developments. She is well respected by the European Commission and in the aviation industry‘. Key clients : Airport Council International (ACI), Cluj Napoca Airport, SOWAER, Brussels Airlines, Lyon Airport, Marseille Airport, Aeroports de Catalunya, Montpellier Airport, Belairbus, Qatar Airways, French Airports Association, Luxair. Work highlights: Assisting SOWAER with the notification to the European Commission of an aid scheme, a deferral of the payment of concession fees owed by the Walloon Charleroi and Liège airports to support the operators during the COVID-19 pandemic. - Representing Béziers Airport in an investigation brought by the European Commission concerning alleged aid granted to Ryanair regarding marketing contracts exchanged between the client and Ryanair. - Acts for Luxair in a broad range of competition law matters."

2020: "State aid and competition law matters form the backbone of CMS' practice. The 'open-minded and customer oriented' team is very well known for acting for an established client base of airports and airlines. Department head Annabelle Lepièce is 'a true professional'. Feedback from clients: 'The team goes above and beyond to assist the client' - 'Annabelle Lepièce’s knowledge of the aeronautical and airport industry is very precise and useful' - 'Annabelle Lepièce is very creative, a problem solver, and prompt to answer'."

2019: "The 'dynamic and very responsive' team at CMS has notable strength in handling state aid and competition law matters for a client base of airlines and airports. Recent work includes representing Tahiti Airport in a dispute with another airline regarding the application of a start-up aid scheme. The group also assisted Sowaer, a company which owns airport infrastructure in the Wallonia region, with issues pertaining to the European Commission's investigation into alleged aid granted to Ryanair by the region and Charleroi Airport. Annabelle Lepièce is the key name, and associate Hanne Baeyens is also recommended."

2018: “CMS advises airports and airlines on a range of state aid and competition law issues. Recent work includes advising Montpellier Airport on the European Commission’s investigation into alleged aid granted to Ryanair. Swissport is another key client, for which the team has been handling litigation concerning the granting of licences to provide ground handling services, along with a stream of corporate and commercial issues. The ‘proactive and creative’ Annabelle Lepièce leads the team, which includes experienced associate Hanne Baeyens.”
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Banking, finance and capital markets

2023: "CMS combines strong lender and borrower-side capabilities, advising banks, public sector bodies, and corporates on a variety of facilities, financing arrangements, and private placements, with particularly notable work in the field of green and ESG financing. The firm works with major domestic names as well as international lenders, particularly French and German banks, as well as handling mandates involving US and Canadian parties. The team is led by Benoît Vandervelde, whose expertise includes syndicated lending and other complex facilities, Bruno Duquesne, who focuses on property transactions, and Arnaud Van Oekel, who advises on acquisition financing and debt restructuring. Testimonials: ‘I worked with the team/law firm a first time this year and was pleasantly surprised with the professionalism in an inaugural large deal. The team was always available and helpful with expert advice and despite very tight deadlines (we were convinced it would be almost impossible to obtain, but they did). It is always difficult to adjust to each other’s style in a first time working together, however this was no issue.’ -‘The two partners involved in the deal, Benoit Vandervelde and Bruno Duquesne, did well in summarizing main issues without getting lost in details that are not that important for banks. Despite us being new in the deal, they gave the same attention and weight to our concerns as the remaining incumbent lender, which is not evident, and put time pressure on client and his counsel at the correct moments. I had the feeling they did everything they could to represent us well and maximized their attention on the file.’ - ‘Excellent negotiating skills – Superior knowledge of LMA documentation compared to the borrower’s counsel. Strong involvement of two partners on our deal – Excellent knowledge of Dutch, French and English which was relevant in this case.’  Key clients: HSBC France and Belfius Bank, Pricoa Capital, Kyndryl,  Proximus, Munchenerhypotheekbank, Gryphon, Investcorp, BBVA, JP Morgan, Helaba, Superbet, Apcoa Parking, Mowi, UBS Asset Management, Opel Finance, RCI Financial Services, Aareal Bank, Banque Populaire, Barings. Work highlights: Advised HSBC France and Belfius Bank as co-lead arrangers in the setting-up of a EUR 25 billion EMTN programme for the Belgian Federal Region of Wallonia. - Advised Proximus as sponsor of an optical fibre green loan financing granted to its joint venture Unifiber by a consortium of European banks. - Advised Pricoa (Prudential) in connection with a US private placement governed by Belgian law, with bonds issued by the Canadian subsidiary of Belgian group Biobest."

2022: "CMS has a strong record in debt capital markets and financing matters, advising domestic and international banks on an array of transactions including commodities, real estate, corporate, and acquisition finance, as well as advising on loan restructuring and banking regulatory work. The team primarily advises international banks as lenders and a combination of corporates and investment funds as borrowers, and regularly handles cross-border mandates in collaboration with its wider network. The practice is led by Benoît Vandervelde, who primarily advises on financing transactions and loan restructuring, Bruno Duquesne, a real estate finance specialist, and corporate finance-focused Arnaud Van Oekel. Testimonials: ‘Excellent technological support, great network over several countries allowing the firm to render excellent advice in multiple jurisdictions deals at a high level. Great flexibility in proposing secondees during times we need more support. Very pleasant team with great know-how.’ - ‘Benoît Vandervelde is a very efficient and pleasant partner with great know-how in legal finance matters allowing a great work for our bank. Same goes for Bruno Duquesne.’ - ‘CMS Belgium have a strong and efficient legal team with deep experience in various fields of law. CMS have offices in various jurisdictions across the world, and it is always CMS Belgium who coordinate other CMS teams which is very convenient.’ - ‘Arnaud Van Oekel is a very experienced professional, and it is always a pleasure to work with him. He is reachable and flexible to meet the client’s needs, and has a deep knowledge of the market.’ - ‘Real legal and business partners. Always available, for complex and simple questions with an attention to fair billing.’ - ‘Benoit knows about the business and its needs. He is very pragmatic in his approach.’ - ‘Benoît Vandervelde is an excellent finance lawyer. Benoit is very competent and knowledgeable. He is responsive and adds value by giving succinct legal advice with a keen commercial view.‘ - ‘Excellent legal team that works very well under pressure and within tight deadlines.‘"

2021: "CMS' banking and finance practice houses 'a very strong legal team', which is 'very experienced in all types of finance transactions'; 'they have a practical perspective and give valuable advice'. Key areas of expertise for the group include derivatives, structured finance transactions, real estate finance and commodities and asset finance. Regulatory work is another cornerstone of the work undertaken by the group. The department is jointly led by the 'efficient' Bruno Duquesne, associate partner Benoît Vandervelde ('responsive and user-friendly') and the 'flexible' Arnaud Van Oekel. Testimonials: ‘Great knowledge of the financing business‘. - ‘Arnaud Van Oekel is reachable, deal- and client-oriented, responsive and has deep knowledge of the market‘. - ‘CMS’ team is always eager to help, friendly and polite. They are client-oriented, focused and always take into account clients’ needs‘. Key clients: ING Belgium, Helaba, Commerzbank, Novelis, BlackRock. Work highlights: Assisted US-based aluminium producer Novelis with a multi-billion dollar financing for the acquisition of Aleris. - Advised Investcorp on its acquisition of the Coca-Cola company’s headquarters in Belgium."

2020: CMS has a varied banking and finance practice, which sees it assist lenders and borrowers with structured finance transactions, real estate finance, leveraged finance, factoring and securitisations, commodities and asset finance, and derivatives. The firm's strong transactional capabilities are complemented by its regulatory expertise. It is particularly strong in advising the financial arms of automotive companies on leasing, insurance and credit distribution. Other drivers of regulatory work include the implementation of MiFID II and Brexit planning. Debt capital markets transactions and private placements are also key workstreams for the team, which is jointly led by Bruno Duquesne, recently promoted associate partner Benoît Vandervelde and Arnaud Van Oekel. In 2018, Vandervelde acted for Banc Sabadell as a lender on a syndicated €1.5bn facilities agreement arranged by ING Belgium and KBC to Belgian company Ravago. Feedback from clients: ‘I am always happy to work with CMS. They are real professionals with exceptionally efficient approach to time and costs. They are able to deal with the most complex transactions. They are proactive and react promptly to changes in the structure and background of any transaction they work on‘ -  ‘Arnaud is deal- and client-oriented, and always finds the most efficient way to resolve any issue. He is great at co-ordinating the work of associates from multiple offices of the firm. He also has deep knowledge of the market and examines the context of every transaction and the specifics of each client’s business very carefully‘ - ‘CMS is very deal-oriented and work time and cost-efficiently on the most complex transactions. Its team has deep experience of all kinds of financial transactions and are flexible in negotiations‘ - ‘Arnaud Van Oekel is an exceptionally qualified lawyer. He is a real professional in finance transactions and able to address the most non-standard questions‘ -‘The firm provides quick and in-depth advice. Benoît Vandervelde is very pragmatic and knowledgeable – a pleasure to work with‘.

2019: "CMS assists financial institutions and corporates with a broad cross-section of banking and capital markets transactions, as well as regulatory matters. Its wide-ranging banking work spans real estate finance, acquisition finance, and factoring and securitisation transactions. In 2018, Arnaud Van Oekel and counsel Benoît Vandervelde were the lead advisers to Getronics on the €700m financing of its acquisition of Pomeroy. Its team is also experienced in debt capital markets transactions and private placements. Regulatory work is another driver of activity for the team; recent mandates have concerned issues such as payment services, the implementation of MiFID II and Brexit. Bruno Duquesne is another name to note in the team. Other clients include Deutsche Bank, Aareal Bank, Helaba and NH Hotels."

2018: “CMS is particularly active in real estate and acquisition finance and is also noted for its capital markets expertise. In recent work, counsel Benoît Vandervelde advised Deutsche Bank on the €100m bonds issuance by SPGE. Arnaud Van Oekel and Bruno Duquesne are the key partners.”

2017: “CMS often represents major banks and investors but also works for large companies such as biotech firm Curetis, which was advised regarding its IPO on Euronext Amsterdam and Brussels. Bruno Duquesne and Benoît Vandervelde are department co-heads along with Arnaud Van Oekel, who has ‘excellent negotiation skills’.”

2016: “CMS is ‘superb in financing’, where it acts as counsel for major banks and investors – representing Degroof Bank and Octo Finances in a Belgo-French bond issuance was a case in point. Arnaud Van Oekel and Bruno Duquesne head the practice, which includes recently promoted counsel Benoît Vandervelde, who ‘rapidly grasps a complex transaction’.”

2015: “CMS ‘compares extremely well’ with other firms in banking and finance [...] The team assisted Synlab Holding with the restatement of a EUR 740m syndicated credit facility. Arnaud Van Oekel co-heads the practice with Bruno Duquesne."

2014: “Property finance expert Bruno Duquesne advised Aareal as lender and arranger on the refinancing of the Belair construction project."

2013: “CMS provides ‘a good quality of service in banking law’. The team recently advised the Delhaize Group, Belgium’s largest food retailer, on Euronext Brussels and NYSE listings. Bruno Duquesne has expertise in property and structured finance."

2012: “CMS DeBacker demonstrates business acumen, industry knowledge and the ability to negotiate multi-party agreements. The team recently advised longstanding client Crédit Agricole on financing its acquisition of Centea Bank from KBC. Bruno Duquesne is a key contact, noted for his ‘ability to find solutions without deteriorating his client’s position’."

2011: “CMS DeBacker’s client base includes Crédit Agricole and Keytrade Bank, for whom the team acted on the acquisition of the Belgian private banking and internet activities of Kaupthing. It also assisted in a rare real estate acquisition financing for Westimmo in a €70m deal, and undertakes a broad diet of transactional work for ING, Bank of America and Commerzbank."

Competition

2023:  "CMS advises clients on a range of issues, including merger control, cartel investigations, abuse of dominance, and interim measures cases before the Belgian Competition Authority, and also offers standout capabilities on contentious public and private enforcement litigation. The team has bespoke expertise in several key sectors, most notably the aviation sector, working on behalf of a number of airports, rail, pharma, and electronic communications, as well as advising public sector clients including Belgian regions on domestic state aid considerations. The practice is headed up by Dirk Van Liedekerke, a highly experienced figure in Belgian competition and communications law, alongside rail and aviation specialist Annabelle Lepièce. Testimonials:  ‘A dedicated team of experts with a real business and creative approach, a perfect understanding of the context and constraints of their clients. A real cooperative work to define the best legal strategy.’ - ‘Dirk Van Liedekerke is a brilliant competition law expert, very responsive and solution oriented. Moreover his expertise and his profound understanding of the issues at stake, both from a legal and an economic point of view, are invaluable for his clients. His calm and educational way of presenting clearly any complex matter is a real asset for a company going through a crisis period.’ -  ‘CMS Brussels has extensive knowledge in state aid law applicable to enterprise support in the Walloon Region.’ - Key clients:  Hoogstraeten – REO, Rexel, Proximus Eurofiber and DeltaFiber, Proximus, FIFA, Walloon public entities, Brussels Region, Walloon Region, Moderna, Febelco, European Industrial Gases Association. Work highlights: Assisted several Walloon public entities in the preparation of five notifications of aid schemes and individual aid in the context of the COVID-19 outbreak and an aid scheme in favour of undertakings impacted by the invasion of Ukraine by Russia. - Advising Proximus regarding the merger control aspects of the Joint Venture Agreements that it has concluded with two alternative infrastructure providers (Eurofiber and DeltaFiber/EQT) for the accelerated roll-out of optical fiber solutions (fiber to the home) in, respectively, Wallonia and Flanders. - Represented Proximus in the different ongoing investigations regarding the RAN-sharing mobile network agreement that it has concluded with Orange Belgium."

2022: "CMS handles the full range of competition matters, including merger control, state aid, cartels, and damages claims, among others, with a strong capability on the contentious side of public and private enforcement proceedings. Sector focuses for the firm include air transport, rail and pharma, and the group is adept at handling state aid for national and regional authorities. The team is led by Annabelle Lepièce, who has an active advisory and litigation practice and specialises in aviation sector work, alongside Dirk Van Liedekerke, who has strong telecoms sector expertise and advises on investigations, merger control, and civil enforcement actions. Testimonials: ‘A strong team with vast experience in all facets of competition law.’ -  ‘Dirk Van Liedekerke is a pragmatic competition lawyer with vast experience and vision. Looks for a pragmatic approach.’ -  ‘Annabelle Lepièce: persistent, out of the box thinker when needed and well balanced leadership.‘ - ‘Marguerite Soete: young but bright, solution oriented and quick thinker.‘ - ‘Ability to cope with the requirements, constraints and specificities of government organizations. Good technical background and deep knowledge of the EU competition mechanisms and inner governance. Adequate soft skills in non quantitative negotiations.‘"

2021: CMS' team is experienced in handling the full range of transactional and behavioural work, and has notable expertise in issues concerning the pharmaceutical, aviation and electronic communications sectors. State aid work is one of the many strong suits of the practice; Annabelle Lepièce is representing the Belgian state in various state aid investigations and proceedings, and related tax matters. Illustrative of her broad practice, she also represented Medi-Market in its complaint before the BCA over alleged competition infringements by the Belgian Order of pharmacists. Dirk Van Liedekerke has expertise in the interplay between EU/Belgian competition law and telecoms law. Key clients: Proximus, Boulanger, Medi-Market, Thalys International, FIFA, Brussels Region, Luxair, KBC, STIB. Work highlights: Assisted French group Boulanger with the acquisition of Krëfel group, the domestic and electrical appliances retailer active in both Belgium (74 stores) and Luxembourg (11 stores). - Assisting and representing Proximus in the different ongoing (competition law) investigations regarding the RAN-sharing mobile network agreement that it has concluded with Orange Belgium. - Representing FIFA in the Doyen Sports/Seraing cases (both in the Brussels and Liège courts) on the legality of the FIFA prohibition on third party ownership in the context of the sportive sanctions that have been imposed on football club Seraing. The FIFA rules concerned were challenged under EU competition and free movement rules, and the case also involved several aspects of complaints filed with the European Commission. The Brussels Court of Appeal rejected all claims brought against FIFA on 12 December 2019."

2020: "CMS' domestic Belgian competition law practice complements its broader European competition law offering, making it a strong choice for advice on areas such as state aid and merger control. It is also highly active in Belgian investigations into abuses of dominance and cartels, as well as follow-on damages actions. Dirk Van Liedekerke is highly reputed for his work in the technology, media and communications arena. He was one of the key team members acting for Norkring in several sets of court proceedings against VRT and Broadcast Partners over access to its broadcast infrastructure for the transmission of VRT’s FM radio signals. He is also advising Proximus as a third party complainant on Telenet's proposed acquisition of sole control of De Vijver Media. Elsewhere, the practice stands out for its strengths in the air transport and railway sectors, with Annabelle Lepièce being the key contact in these areas. Its workload also spans various other industries.  Feedback from clients: 'The team is a business-enabler and capable of intervening in a very short time. Advice provided by the team is valuable and straight to the point‘."

2019: "Led by Annabelle Lepièce, CMS' team covers all areas of competition law, with a particularly notable focus on the contentious aspects of public and private enforcement. The firm has enhanced its profile in the Belgian market since it merged with Nabarro and Olswang in 2017 - and added Dirk Van Liedekerke as a result of the combination - with these developments enabling it to become better positioned to attract work from clients in the TMT space. The firm's expanding presence in the Belgian market has also enabled it to successfully pitch to advise Belgian bank KBC on all competition matters in Belgium and other territories elsewhere in Europe. Elsewhere, the firm has been notably active in assisting the Belgian government with competition cases involving an interplay between state aid and tax. Also on the state aid front, Lepièce and associate Hanne Baeyens are advising the Walloon Region on the compatibility with European rules of subsidies (cofinanced with European structural funds) for several projects in Belgium, such as the construction of an eco-district in Liège, among others. Senior associate Romain Alderweireldt and associate Kim Gillade are also notable individuals."

2018: “CMS’ merger with Olswang boosted its competition practice through the arrival of Dirk Van Liedekerke, whose experience covers an expansive range of merger clearance, investigations, compliance issues and litigation. Annabelle Lepièce is also a key contact and has ‘a practical and pragmatic approach’. Recent work includes advising AMP, as a subsidiary of Lagardère Travel Retail, on its acquisition by bpost.”

2017: “Annabelle Lepièce is the primary contact at CMS, which is instructed by private and public sector clients in cartel investigations, merger control, state aid and abuse of dominance cases. Lepièce is representing Delhaize Group in litigation against MasterCard concerning interchange fees on card payments.”

2016: “CMS’ workload includes state aid (including matters for the Belgian competition authorities), abuse of dominance complaints and cartel investigations. Annabelle Lepièce successfully advised Swissport Belgium on the Belgian Competition Authority’s investigation into cargo-handling services offered to airlines at Brussels Airport.”

2011: "CMS DeBacker’s Annabelle Lepièce handles cases before the Belgian Competition Council, and against the European Commission. Clients include the Walloon and Brussels regional governments.”

Corporate and M&A

2023: "CMS advises an international client base, including corporates in sectors such as tech, logistics, and heavy industrials alongside private equity funds, on the buy and sell-side of transactions and investments, as well as handling the cross-border employment and regulatory aspects of M&A, commercial agreements, and corporate restructurings. The team is headed up by Vincent Dirckx, with Virginie Frémat and Stéphane Collin also key members of the practice. Testimonials: ‘I worked several times with Arnaud Van Oekel. Very good balance between nice people and highly professional and available. very good value for price. I would highly recommend.’ - ‘CMS teams involved the right mix of associates profiles and partners profiles. Partners are highly involved, bringing a high level of expertise in the deals they work in. It leads to a very reassuring approach to the client.’ - ‘They demonstrate a very high level of expertise. In addition, they are very patient with the client, and pedagogic.’ - ‘There is a real collaboration in the team, with associates valued and not only there to act as secretaries. It implies a real level of trust from the senior partner and makes the general atmosphere of work a pleasant one, while allowing the client an easy access to the lawyers. They mastered a difficult and stressful 100% Docusign closing with a high number of documents and signatories while facing all possible technical trouble: very well done!!’ - ‘Stéphane and his team are easy to access, widely available, have a solid expertise on corporate law and are able to propose practical solutions to move forward with the negotiations, even under pressure.’ - ‘Hands on, pragmatic, looking for solutions for the client.’. Key clients: Technology & Strategy, Kpler, Courtside Venture, Ametek, Gryphon – Alticor, Inc, SNCF Voyages, Thalys International and Eurostar International Limited, Bruker, Intigriti, Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions, Groupe Lagarrigue, Omers Venture, Biogroup, Broekman Logistics, Diversis, Coreso TSCNet, Owners of Dobby (Zeron), Capgemini, Howden Broking, RentalTech, TIS (Treasure Intelligence Solutions), SFPI, ALD Automotive, SNCF Logistics, Emrol. Work highlights: Advised Technology & Strategy (T&S), a European specialist in technology consulting on its acquisition of a majority stake in Intys. - Advised Kpler in 2022, and their founders on the USD 200,000,000 strategic growth investment led by Insight Partners (Rothschild & Co) and Five Arrows. - Assisted Courtside Venture, a New York City-based venture capital fund, as lead investor in the series A financing round of Venly."

2022: "CMS is active in M&A and corporate finance transactions, with strength across a variety of sectors, most notably life sciences, telecoms, and digital. The firm’s cross-border capabilities are notable, with the Brussels-based team working with the firm's international offering on multijurisdictional transactions across Europe and globally. Practice head Vincent Dirckx primarily handles corporate finance, advising investment funds and venture capital investors alongside listed and non-listed issuers. Carl Leermakers and Arnaud Van Oekel are active dealmakers, advising domestic and international companies on M&A, with Leermakers also handling corporate governance issues. David Prync was promoted to partner in mid-2021, and advises on cross-border M&A and private equity deals. Testimonials: ‘Very strong team and extremely knowledgeable. Indicates very well risks and pitfalls.’ - ‘Arnaud Van Oekel: He was highly dedicated, very pragmatic and smart his its approach to the deal.‘ - ‘Virginie Frémat is an excellent legal advisor supported by other team members. Thinks with the client, outlines well the advantages / disadvantages and risks of various solutions. Reliable lawyer. Very good availability.’ - ‘Very good professionals, cooperating together to meet the client’s needs on a timely basis while maintaining professional standards.’ - ‘Arnaud Van Oekel is an excellent M&A lawyer.’"

2021: "CMS combines its cross-departmental strengths, Belgian law expertise and international reach to handle all aspects of headline mid-market M&A. Vincent Dirckx leads the corporate and M&A team, which is also sought out for advice on fundraisings, multijurisdictional group reorganisations and corporate governance issues, among other matters. Dirckx led the advice to Korys (Colruyt's investment vehicle) on an investment round, as well as its investment in Urbantz. Stéphane Collin has expertise in intra-group mergers and splits, and post-merger integration. Virginie Frémat and Jean-François Goffin are also recommended. Key clients: French Group Boulanger, Korys, Toshiba TEC Corporation, Auchan, Innovation Fund, NJJ Holding, Group Monnoyeur, SNCF Logistics, Stanley Security Group, D’Ieteren, Dupont Nutrition and Bioscience, Celyad. Work highlights: Acted for French Group Boulanger on the acquisition of Krëfel group in both Belgium (74 stores) and Luxembourg (11 stores). - Assisted Celyad with a broad range of corporate finance matters, including debt-equity swap deals on the US market and with warrant issuings. - Advising the group D’Ieteren on the restructuring of its activities of vehicle distribution and retail business." 

2020: "The corporate and M&A team at CMS attracts praise for its 'understanding of the needs of the client' and applies a 'pragmatic approach'; the group also leverages its European network, which is 'very useful' in cross-border transactions. It has been particularly active in the start-up and scale-up space and recently assisted Magic Leap, the US-based world leader in spatial computing systems, with the acquisition of Belgian start-up Mimesys. The practice is led by Vincent Dirckx, who handles a broad range of cross-border and domestic transactions, and includes Arnaud Van Oekel in Brussels and recently promoted partner Virginie Frémat in Antwerp, who has particular insurance sector expertise. Feedback from clients: ‘Very pragmatic approach. Very correct and sympathetic people to work with.‘ - ‘Ability to work on cases of different sizes by adapting rates without hampering the quality of the work. They succeeded in adapting the size and seniority of the teams by empowering more junior lawyers while keeping strong guidance from seniors.‘ - ‘Virginie Frémat and associate Xenia Vandenabeele both have a lot of knowledge, are open people and very trustworthy. They continue to be involved to see ‘how it goes’ after closing a matter.‘  - ‘Virginie Frémat has a broad knowledge of several legal domains (technical M&A skills, litigation, insurance, real estate) and she always thinks out of the box in complex situations.‘ - ‘As a young lawyer, it is clear that associate Xenia Vandenabeele can be described as a high potential. She really delivered added value in the deals we worked on together"."

2019: "The corporate and M&A practice at CMS, headed up by Vincent Dirckx, has the capability to handle transactions for both domestic and international clients. It recently assisted MoneyGram International with the movement of operations to Belgium from the UK, as well as with opening new branches across the EU. The group is also instructed by Johnson & Johnson, which it  advised on the divestment of several businesses through asset transactions. In another work highlight, the team advised Centrica on its acquisition of Restore."

2018: “‘Good all-round firm’ CMS has a highly regarded corporate department, which is ‘very committed’ and ‘very responsive’. Recent highlights include advising Burger King on the potential acquisition of Belgium fast food chain Quick, and assisting ABN Amro Lease with a cross-border merger with Dutch entity ABN Amro Lease NV. Key practitioners include practice head Vincent Dirckx, ‘outstanding lawyer’ Arnaud Van Oekel, Stéphane Collin and senior associate David Prync.

2017: “CMS has ‘significant experience’ in the corporate and M&A space, where Lampiris, LafargeHolcim and Burger King are key clients. Vincent Dirckx heads the practice, which advised Delhaize on all Belgian aspects of its cross-border merger with Royal Ahold.”

2016: “CMS is ‘quick on the ball’ in corporate and M&A-related matters. The team advised steel manufacturer NLMK on a major business reorganisation and assisted Burger King with setting up a Belgian joint venture. The ‘up-and-coming’ Arnaud Van Oekel is noted and Vincent Dirckx heads the practice.”

2015: "CMS acted for MetLife regarding the sale of its Belgian branch by [to] Nord Europe Assurances. Another highlight was advising German insurer Talanx on Belgian law in connection with the merger with its Belgian subsidiary HDI Gerling. Vincent Dirckx heads the practice, which also includes the recommended Stéphane Collin.”

2014: “Vincent Dirckx heads the practice at CMS, which advises a diverse client base across a range of local and cross-border corporate matters including public and private M&A. Arnaud Van Oekel advised synlab Holding on the acquisition of Laboratoire Dr. Collard. Other clients include Delhaize Group and Orchestra-Prémaman.”

2013: “Vincent Dirckx heads CMS’ ‘business-minded team’, which provides ‘practical solutions’ and ‘great responsiveness’. Recently promoted partner Arnaud Van Oekel advised Orchestra-Kazibao on its takeover of distressed Belgian baby products retailer Prémaman, including the consequent integration and reorganisation. The ‘always solution-oriented’ Cedric Guyot is also recommended.”

2012: “One of the most qualified and outstanding firms in the market’, CMS DeBacker acted on several high-profile M&A mandates in 2011 including advising Delhaize on the €935m takeover of Delta Maxi, and assisting Crédit Agricole on its €527m acquisition of Centea. The ‘business-driven’ Vincent Dirckx leads the team, and Carl Leermakers and Stéphane Collin are also recommended.”

2011: “The new team head at CMS DeBacker, Vincent Dirckx, has applied energy to his team’s work, winning instructions from Delhaize Group, Belgium’s largest food retailer, and local restructuring for Fujifilm, courier services provider Link2Biz and American Express. Cedric Guyot is recommended.”

Dispute resolution

2023: " Leveraging its formidable global footprint, CMS' sizeable Brussels-based disputes group is regularly instructed by a number of blue-chip companies requiring representation in high-profile cases, including before the Constitutional Court and the European Court of Justice. Joint practice heads Renaud Dupont and Tom Heremans are both noted for the depth of their copyright, trademark, and patent expertise; Dupont's client base is concentrated in the retail, media and chemicals sectors, while Heremans is a key port of call for major e-commerce companies and automotive companies seeking assistance in high-profile trademark proceedings. Other key names to note include Sophie Berg, whose contentious labour law expertise sees her advising on major cases for market-leading entities. Testimonials: ‘Excellent knowledge of the law. Always a pleasure to work with Renaud Dupont.’ - ‘The team is very collaborative and understands our needs for efficiency and pragmatic advice.’ - ‘What is important for us is the interaction and fluent communication between us. This secures a firm partnership.’ - Key clients: Amazon, Airbnb, Deliveroo, Facebook, FIFA, NH Hotels, Delvaux, Mestdagh, Henkel, CHUBB, Brussels Region, A.C.P., 3M, BMT International, Hori, Goca, Tronox, Proximus. Work highlights: Representing two US entities of Amazon in trademark infringement proceedings against Christian Louboutin before the Brussels Court, as well as in the proceedings for preliminary ruling at the European Court of Justice. - Represented Airbnb in two cases for preliminary ruling before the European Court of Justice upon referral by the Belgian Constitutional Court and the Italian Council of State. - Succeeded on behalf of Deliveroo regarding the status’ riders who will remain independent contractors and not employees, as the Belgian labour prosecutor wished to do."

2022: "CMS acts for global corporations and multinational associations in high-profile disputes that frequently have a strong cross-border aspect. The team is especially noted for its presence in the tech and online marketplace space, where it handles business-critical IP-related mandates. The practice is led by Renaud Dupont, a specialist in copyright, trademarks, and patents, who routinely acts for leading multinationals in the media, retail and chemical sectors. IP specialist Loïc de Hults is also noted. Testimonials: ‘CMS Brussels shows an outstanding track record of providing stellar legal advice to tech firms in a wide range of areas, from commercial matters to tricky litigation cases over privacy analysis. Their encyclopaedic knowledge of EU law is truly unique.’ - ‘The team is very proactive and solutions oriented. Also, what is remarkable, is the fact that the team is pragmatic.’" 

2021: "CMS' 'pragmatic and business-oriented' team has a strong track record in IP litigation and it is also highly active in commercial and competition litigation. In a notable highlight, the group represented MediCare-Market in proceedings against the Order of Pharmacists over alleged infringements of competition law; the Belgian Competition Authority ruled that the Order had infringed competition law by means of restrictive practices. Renaud Dupont, who is well-known for his expertise in IP matters, leads the department. Key clients: Proximus, Delvaux, Amazon, FIFA, MediCare-Market, AIG, Leonidas, The City of Brussels."

2020: "At CMS, the team is acting for Facebook in ongoing proceedings brought by the Belgian Data Protection Authority regarding alleged infringements of privacy protection rules concerning the use of cookies and pixels; the case is currently before the Court of Justice of the European Union. Competition litigation has also been prominent in the group's recent caseload. IP expert Renaud Dupont heads up the department."

2019: "The 'solutions-oriented' team at CMS represents Facebook in proceedings brought by the Belgian Data Protection Authority regarding alleged infringements of privacy protection rules concerning the use of pixels and cookies. Renaud Dupont, who is highly regarded for his IP expertise, is the key figure."

2018: “Among CMS’ recent caseload, counsel Marie Canivet successfully represented Medicare-Market in a case brought by Ordre des Pharmaciens, the Association Pharmaceutique Belge and several pharmacies challenging its economic model. IP specialist Renaud Dupont heads the department.”

2017: “CMS has a specialist arbitration team, which is led by counsel Marie Canivet, and also fields sector-focused litigators, whose expertise spans industries such as media, insurance and retail. Overall department head Renaud Dupont represented AMP in litigation over the termination of a parcel delivery agreement with Mondial Relay.”

2016: “Renaud Dupont’s team at CMS combines expertise in business law with knowledge of insurance, competition and IP. Alexis Hallemans represented Dutch company HDD Group in a trade mark infringement case against a Belgian fitness chain.”

2015: “CMS’ recent mandates span corporate, commercial, insurance, IP and public procurement. The firm is currently representing Protteram in its dispute with Carlsberg Import arising from the termination of a distribution contract. Renaud Dupont heads the team.

2014: “Renaud Dupont heads the team at CMS, which represented global brewer AB InBev in a dispute between its brand Jupiler and competitor Maes regarding the use of blue labelling. It is also advising food retailer Delhaize Group in a damages claim against MasterCard relating to its transaction fees, which were ruled illegal by the EC (on appeal).”

2013: “CMS’ practice is ‘really pleasant to work with’, and provides ‘great responsiveness and practical solutions.’ It covers the spectrum of commercial disputes with particular strength in IP litigation, for which Renaud Dupont is the name to note. Jean-François Goffin has extensive experience in shareholders’ disputes, ‘hands-on lawyer’ Tom Heremans is an ‘experienced’ litigator, and the ‘solution-oriented’ Cedric Guyot is also recommended.”

2012: “CMS DeBacker covers all types of business law disputes, but also has a strong reputation for IP litigation, where Jean-François Goffin and Renaud Dupont recently represented Meura, a producer of processing equipment for breweries, in patent litigation against an international beer brewer.”

2011: “CMS DeBacker’s Cedric Guyot and Jean-François Goffin have been busy with IP-related trademark litigation, commercial agency and distribution claims, commercial arbitrations, as well as extensive shareholder litigation and financial misselling actions. Clients include BNP Paribas.”

Employment

2023: "Led by Sophie BergGaël Chuffart, and Elke Duden across offices in Brussels and Antwerp, CMS‘s employment and pensions practice is adept at handling strategic, advisory, and contentious matters. Berg is especially noted for her work for clients in the gig economy, including in a major case determining the status of platform workers, while Chuffart focuses on collective labour agreements and international mobility issues. Duden, meanwhile, is recommended for her ‘practical advice‘, in particular on matters relating to pensions. Other key lawyers include senior associate Karen Dereepere, who spearheads the firm’s COVID-19 taskforce. Testimonials‘The partners have a high level of knowledge and are quick to adapt to new instructions and situations. The senior associates are also of a high level.’ - ‘Good knowledge, availability and interactions with clients.’ - ‘Elke Duden is tremendous. She provides practical advice that considers the needs of the client. She is what you need in an external adviser: someone who is able to help identify and spot the issues and then help present them to the client so they can make an assessment.’ Key clients:  Deliveroo, Primark, Qatar Airways, LVMH – Louis Vuitton, Electronic Arts, AT&T, Exxon Mobil Petroleum & Chemical BV, Carl ZEISS, Accenture, Sanofi, Celio, Korn Ferry, Lloyd’s Register EMEA, SNCF, J&J pension funds, General Motors pension funds, Euroclear pension fund, Applied Maths, Umedia, Airties. Work highlights : Won a historic case for Deliveroo regarding the status of riders who will remain independent contractors and not employees, in a case with significant importance for the European and Belgian legislative landscape as new legal provisions regarding gig workers are currently in discussion. -  Assisting Primark in the establishment of its business across the CEE region, including ESG aspects (for example by establishing working regulations and policies, drafting employment contracts, setting up recruitment and payroll processes, advising on data protection, and supporting the client in all day-to-day employment issues). - Assisting Qatar Airways with its day-to-day employment law issues in Belgium, including providing advice on remuneration and working duration issues, among others."

2022: "CMS‘ multi-office practice regularly works with key players in the disruptive economy, advising major tech players on various multi-jurisdictional employment matters. Collective dismissals, reorganisations, and (domestic and pan-European) pension issues are all core areas of expertise for the practice, which is jointly helmed by Elke Duden, Sophie Berg and Gaël Chuffart . Karen Dereepere is the driving force behind the team’s Covid-19 hub. Testimonials: ‘The team is knowledgeable and pragmatic. They understand our business needs and are building legal solutions around that. This is what we are expecting from outside counsel. They are open to discussions and extremely responsive.’ -  ‘Sophie Berg and Gaël Chuffart both stand out for their legal expertise, reactivity and pragmatism.’ - ‘Good, young team.’ - ‘The CMS team goes the extra mile to know and understand the client. One of their strengths is being able to anticipate our needs.’ - ‘Elke Duden has a great pulse on the market and an ability to provide practical advice and solutions to issues we are facing. I am impressed by her ability to hone in on the legal issues that a particular set of facts poses and to explain that to us and our clients.’ - ‘The team are deeply knowledgeable about employment and pensions practice in Belgium which is invaluable for an international business like us. They have recently supported and advised us through a complicated divestment and legal demerger and both their advice and their practical support was excellent.’ - ‘Elke Duden has been exceptional in her confident advice, great stakeholder management, depth of understanding and flexibility. Sofie Kusters also provided very practical support such as completing registration forms and drafting letters and communication materials for us.’"

2021: "At CMS, the 'very practical' group is advising the Belgian branch of Qatar Airways on the airline's planned global reorganisation, involving the dismissal of employees from Brussels Airport and Liège Airport. Pensions work has been another notable area of activity for the team. The key contacts are the 'outstanding' Gaël Chuffart, Sophie Berg and Elke Duden ('a steady rock'). Feedback from clients: ‘Elke Duden is always available with advice and energy‘. - ‘Dedicated and supportive‘. Key clients: Deliveroo, Qatar Airways, ExxonMobil.

2020: The 'pragmatic' team at CMS has been kept busy with pensions work, restructuring matters, employee status issues, employee transfers and transactional mandates, among other areas. Gaël Chuffart, Sophie Berg and pensions expert Elke Duden are the names to note. Feedback from clients: ‘Sophie Berg is very good – understands our business and is willing to go the extra mile to support us‘.

2019: "Gaël Chuffart heads the department at CMS, where the team is assisting Deliveroo with employee status matters. Toyota is another key client. Sophie Berg provides ‘practical and commercially sound advice’. In 2018 Elke Duden joined from Linklaters and Jef Degrauwe retired."

2018: “‘Top choice for sensitive files’, CMS’ group impresses with its ‘quick responses and solutions’. Practice head Gaël Chuffart, who is ‘authoritative and knowledgeable’, advised Toyota on a restructuring involving several dismissals. The newly promoted Sophie Berg provides ‘commercial and spot-on advice’ and Jef Degrauwe is also recommended.”

2017: “Practice head Gaël Chuffart ‘leads by example’ at CMS, which assists with domestic and cross-border corporate reorganisations and collective dismissals, as well as giving day-to-day advice on contracts and salaries, among other matters. Sophie Berg, who made associate partner, specialises in domestic and cross-border transfers of personnel. Jef Degrauwe is another key individual.”

2016: “CMS focuses on collective dismissals and closures, transfer of personnel, harmonisation of work conditions, employment housekeeping, and strategic HR advice. Gaël Chuffart heads the department, which recently advised US company Alltech on the closure of a production site for animal feed supplements.”

2015: “CMS advises on national and international transfers, strategic human resources advice, and collective dismissals and closures. The team assisted Lagardère Belgium’s press distribution subsidiary AMP during the closure of a division. Gaël Chuffart now heads the practice.

2014: "CMS’ broad practice has been kept busy with restructurings, collective dismissals and site closures, including advising DP World on the restructuring of its Belgian operations. Practice head Michaël De Leersnyder has a wealth of experience in employment and social security law. Jef Degrauwe and senior associate Sophie Berg are also recommended."

2013: "CMS shows ‘deep and global knowledge’ of human resources and is praised for its responsiveness and flexibility. ‘Expert in the field’ Michaël De Leersnyder advised AMP on business reorganisation, including the collective dismissal of more than 10% of its employees and negotiations with the authorities to obtain authorisation to lower the early retirement age. Associate partner Gaël Chuffart is ‘professional, reliable and pragmatic’."

2012: "Practice head Michaël De Leersnyder and managing partner Stanislas van Wassenhove are the key figures in CMS DeBacker’s ‘very good’ employment team; both have a strong focus on collective labour law. Also recommended, Jef Degrauwe advised Crédit Agricole on employment aspects of its acquisition of Centea Bank, a fully owned subsidiary of KBC Group, which involved due diligence and assisting with integration."

2011: "CMS DeBacker’s Stanislas van Wassenhove had a busy year advising senior executives following the global downturn. His colleagues have been no less busy, with numerous reorganisations involving difficult negotiations- (including on lowering retirement ages), as well as temporary measures to avoid unemployment; all of which involved unions, and some dismissals. The team has also been involved in cross-border mergers, with post-merger harmonisation of employment terms. Clients include Lloyds Development Capital."

Fintech

2023: "CMS combines banking and finance, regulatory, and digital law expertise in its work with neo-banks, payment providers and venture capital companies, advising on financial regulatory issues, Belgian market entry, intellectual property, and AML considerations.  The team is headed up by Benoît Vandervelde, who has a strong focus on the fintech space, working with companies on new products and regulatory compliance, Tom De Cordier, a specialist in data protection and IP issues, and Dirk Van Liedekerke, who advises on competition law and electronic communications regulations. Testimonials: ‘Reliable and competent team.’ - ‘Deep knowledge and understanding of financial services regulation’ - ‘They are a very collaborative firm. If a team does not have the right legal competence, they directly re-direct the competent associate/partner. They are very available, always up to answer any question in a very tight timeframe (which happens quite often in our industry). They have a good knowledge of our industry and very practical.’ - ‘Florence Van Damme, commercial lawyer: she is always available, very clear in our legal opinion, both written and orally. She has a very clear understanding of our business and takes the lead when needed.’  Key clients: Revolut, Superbet, Minotorus, Courtside Ventures, Verve Capital Partners, JCB, Be Angels, Hokodo, Quantessence. Work highlights: Advised neo-bank Revolut on various Belgian payment services, deposit and insurance distribution topics, in connection with upgrades of their services and contemplated new products. -  Advised Euroclear’s subsidiary Quantessence, a start-up connecting distributors, asset managers and hedge providers for obtaining a Belgian MiFID license.  - Advised Hokodo on their expansion in Belgium."

2022: "With a client base of international financial services providers and companies, CMS advises on projects and regulatory issues relating to cryptocurrency, payment services and e-money, asset management, and insurtech, with broad expertise across regulatory issues and cross-border work. The firm also leverages its international TMT offering to provide broad advice on IT and data issues to fintech and new technology clients. Banking, finance, and insurance regulatory specialist Benoît Vandervelde heads up the practice alongside Tom De Cordier, who focuses on IT and data privacy issues, and Dirk Van Liedekerke, an experienced adviser on electronic communications and competition law. Testimonials: ‘Pragmatic approach to engagements made them a good choice for us, since we are a scaling fintech and needed quite focused and cost effective support.’ - ‘Benoît Vandervelde is extremely knowledgeable, responsive and collaborative. He takes time to explain complex issues and breaks them down in a way that makes it easy to digest and share with internal stakeholders. We have found him to be extremely helpful on a number of key issues relating to our Belgian entity and European business activities.’"

2021: "The CMS fintech group advises financial institutions, payment service providers and insurance companies on all monetary or token regulatory aspects of Belgian and international fintech law. It also has experience with clients seeking to build digital payment frameworks and obtain consumer credit licences – ranging from governmental institutions and corporates to start-up and scale-up level. Benoît Vandervelde, who made partner in January 2020, leads the practice together with Tom De Cordier and Dirk Van Liedekerke. Clients include Inzmo, Novum Bank, Proximus and Xtrade Europe. Key clients: Qover, Keyrock, IbanFirst, Catalyze, Chubb, Ria Envia, Inzmo, Novum Bank, Proximus, Xtrade Europe. Work highlights:  Assisting Qover on all its legal matters, from the development of new insurance products, full digitalisation of the process, licensing and partnership negotiations. - Assisting Keyrock with its regulatory compliance assessment and funding in crypto-currency, as well as drafting of loans in crypto-currencies. - Assisting Chubb with developing an insurance product to be integrated into the Bsit app, a booking system for baby-sitting purposes."

Healthcare & Lifesciences

2023: "CMS advises pharmaceutical heavyweights, industry associations, and public sector clients on regulatory, transactional, and public procurement matters. Public procurement is a key strength of the firm, and it regularly works with large domestic and European governing bodies on major multijurisdictional matters. Bruno Fonteyn and Virginie Dor  jointly head the practice. Public health and social security law specialist Fonteyn represents clients before courts and regulatory authorities. Dor specialises in public procurement with an emphasis on EU-wide mandates.  Key clients: Croix Rouge (Red Cross), Medtech, Biogroup, French Groupe Lagarrigue, Synlab, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Medi-Market, Hospital of Charleroi, Pierre Fabre, SIAMU (Fire and Emergency Medical Aid Service of the Brussels-Capital Region), Febelco, Cophana (McKesson). Work highlights: Assisting the Red Cross in its contractual relationships with many organisations in the healthcare sector. - Advising MedTech Europe on its procurement and competition-related questions. - Advised Biogroup, the French largest lab group, in connection with the acquisition of the Belgian clinical group companies Laboratoires Réunis, one of the leading players in medical lab testing in Wallonia."

2022: "CMS' cross-practice collaboration and multilingual capabilities make it a popular choice for a varied roster of pharmaceutical heavyweights, industry associations and hospital groups. The team is especially renowned for its public procurement capabilities, working with some of the largest Europe-wide governing bodies on high-profile, cross-border projects. Joint practice heads Bruno Fonteyn and Virginie Dor are noted for their expertise in health sector regulation and EU-wide health and social care procurement mandates, respectively. Testimonials: ‘Very hands-on knowledge and ability to provide very practical examples to the business. Feedback received was really what we needed, being very hands on, easy to understand feedback to specific practical questions.’ - ‘I don’t know that many lawyers that are able to provide such practical advice (no theory but really a precise and clear answer to specific business cases) as well as Virginie Dor.’"

2021: "At CMS, the healthcare and life sciences practice is most notable for public procurement work, and often provides assistance to hospitals, healthcare providers and biotech companies. Virginie Dor co-leads the team alongside technology specialist Tom De Cordier and senior associate Bruno Fonteyn; the practice also handles regulatory matters relating to new medicines, medical devices, clinical trials, and the production and supply of PPE following the Covid-19 pandemic. Key clients: European Commission – Euriphi, MedTech Europe, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Synlab, Medi-Market, Hospital of Charleroi, Getinge, OraSure, Roche Diagnostics, Yesss Distribution, Carl-Zeiss, Aspen Pharma, Work highlights: Acting as the legal team of a consortium led by MedTech Europe in the framework of the EU-funded pan-European Euriphi project. - Assisting one of the biggest university hospitals in Belgium in its reconstruction project by drafting the specifications and contracts, conducting the competition procedures for project phase awards, and assisting with the management of strategic decisions and negotiations. - Assisting Getinge with the drafting, preparation and submission of its bid for the EU tender launched by the EU Commission for a project value of €1bn."

2020: "CMS' life sciences and healthcare team counts pharmaceuticals, medical device and biotech companies, hospitals, healthcare providers and public authorities on its broad client list.  The practice is particularly strong for public procurement work, a key area of expertise for Virginie Dor. Dor jointly leads the practice with technology expert Tom De Cordier, who frequently advises on data privacy mandates; and senior associate Bruno Fonteyn, who specialises in regulatory matters relating to hospitals, medical equipment, medical experiments and clinical trails."

2019: “The healthcare and life sciences team at CMS acts for hospitals, healthcare providers and public authorities, as well as pharmaceutical companies, with clients including the Hospital of Charleroi, the European Commission, Aspen Pharmacare and Takeda Pharmaceutical Company. Virginie Dor, who has particular expertise in public procurement, heads up the practice alongside counsel Bruno Fonteyn. Annabelle Lepièce is a key name to note for competition law."

Information technology and Telecoms

2023: "The IT & Telecoms team at CMS covers the full array of contentious and non-contentious technology and communications matters, and is particularly reputed for its media expertise. Department co-chair Dirk Van Liedekerke is a seasoned practitioner with more than 20 years of experience. He is proficient in both EU and Belgian competition and telecommunication law, possessing in-depth knowledge regarding merger control filings and litigation. Tom De Cordier is a well-established figure for technology-related IP, data privacy, and media and communications law, covering an array of advisory, litigation and transactional work at a domestic and international scale. Testimonials: ‘CMS has deep knowledge about the world of DNS and internet and can provide valuable advise in situations where a conflict already exists as well as in situations where the client can be advised to adopt a strategy to protect his rights and to prevent potential conflicts.’ -  ‘The people we work with at CMS understand our needs very well and are available to us on short notice. We also appreciate that several key people within CMS have different skill sets, e.g. advice in litigation vs. advice on privacy related matters’. -  ‘CMS has a broad network together with deep expertise covers all over Europe and CIS. This wide coverage makes this firm different from the others. Their work product is always value for money.’  - ‘Tom De Cordier is a very impressive partner who has very deep knowledge in the areas of data protection and telecommunication in the EU and Belgium.’  Key clients: Proximus, Airbnb, Amazon, Cophana (McKesson), Facebook, Sagi (Telio Group). Work highlights: Advised Proximus regarding all corporate, merger control, regulatory and commercial law aspects of the Joint Venture Agreements that it has concluded with two alternative infrastructure providers (Eurofiber and DeltaFiber/EQT). - Represented Airbnb in two cases for preliminary ruling before the European Court of Justice upon referral by the Belgian Constitutional Court and the Italian Council of State. - Represented two US entities of Amazon in trademark infringement proceedings against Christian Louboutin before the Brussels Court."

2022: "CMS is well regarded by clients for its ‘dedicated, broad expertise‘. An impressive roster of blue-chip digital economy companies turn to the team for assistance with contentious and non-contentious matters, including cybersecurity issues, privacy infringement cases and regulatory questions. Dirk Van Liedekerke focuses on EU and Belgian competition law and communications law, working with various operators and platform providers across the board. Tom De Cordier is praised for his ‘truly supportive‘ approach in a range of TMC, data privacy and life sciences-based instructions. Testimonials: ‘CMS is fairly unique given that their expert teams cover in essence all aspects of the IT, communications, media and entertainment industries. They work seamlessly together through the combination of the skill sets that are needed to obtain the best results for their clients.’ - ‘The CMS teams are fully dedicated to the matters which the client entrusts to them. They really care about their clients, work relentlessly in the best interest of their clients and always look for additional innovative arguments. Dirk Van Liedekerke and Alexis Laes really stand out in this respect.’ -  ‘Dedicated, broad expertise in the area of data protection and information security, also in complex situations.’ - ‘Tom De Cordier knows our organisation, is truly supportive, and understands our business needs and requirements.’"

2021: "At CMS, the 'particularly dedicated' IT and telecoms team 'does not leave stones unturned' when covering a wide range of contentious and non-contentious cases. With recent experience of advising new digital and collaborative economy businesses, the practice is also active in strategic technology matters in the automotive sector. Competition and telecoms expert Dirk Van Liedekerke, who counts Facebook and Proximus among his clients, leads the team alongside data privacy and commercial technology expert Tom De Cordier. Feebdack from clients: ‘The CMS team ensures that all relevant aspects of our matters are covered and dealt with in the best manner possible. Generally, we are faced with complex cases that involve not only questions of international jurisdiction but also a variety of other multidisciplinary issues. The composition of the team proposed by CMS for handling specific cases is always set-up in such a manner that it is capable of combining all the required skills.’ - ‘The CMS team with which I work (principally Dirk Van Liedekerke) is particularly dedicated and does not leave stones unturned. It is very creative in developing new layers of arguments each time when this is needed and they are extremely easy to work with.’ Key clients: Airbnb, Arkance, CDC – Arkhineo, Delvaux, DNS Belgium, Facebook, Proximus. Work highlights:
Representing Proximus in different ongoing investigations regarding the RAN-sharing mobile network agreement that it has concluded with Orange Belgium. - Representing Airbnb in preliminary ruling proceedings at the European Court of Justice and obtaining a ruling confirming that Airbnb’s platform services are to be considered as information society services."

2020: "CMS' IT and telecoms practice attracts praise for its 'high-quality, cost effective and timely manner'. The group is instructed by high-profile companies including Facebook, Proximus and new client Spotify, and handles contentious and non-contentious technology, data protection, regulatory and telecoms issues. Competition and telecoms expert Dirk Van Liedekerke leads the team alongside Tom De Cordier, who focuses on commercial technology and data privacy mandates. Feebdack from clients: ‘The CMS team has supported our company for many years and has significant experience in telecoms and provides consistently high quality, timely, cost effective, and ethical yet practical advice.’ - ‘They are essential to our regulatory operations in Belgium.‘ - ‘Tom DeCordier is the lynchpin to the regulatory team that advises our company and provides exceptional advice in a practical and savvy yet highly ethical manner.‘ - ‘The team that Tom DeCordier oversees is consistently responsive on a wide variety of regulatory matters, and does so in a very high quality, cost effective, and timely manner'."

2019: "With 'expertise that covers a wide range of legal areas, including competition, EU regulatory and privacy', CMS' IT and telecoms team is made up of 'excellent' and 'very dedicated' lawyers offering 'top-notch advice'. 'Exceptional lawyer' Dirk Van Liedekerke, who has particular experience in EU and Belgian competition and telecoms law, leads a team that defends Facebook before the Belgian courts against allegations of infringements of EU and national rules on privacy protection through the use of cookies and pixels. The department also assisted Sagi Export with its successful bid for a contract with the Belgian Ministry of Justice for the provision of in-prison telephony and other electronic communications services. Tom De Cordier heads the practice alongside Van Liedekerke and is a key name to note, particularly for data privacy matters."

2018: “CMS’ team ‘has excellent knowledge in Belgian and EU telecom and data privacy matters’ and provides ‘pragmatic advice with the business perspective in mind’. The group has recently been acting for Proximus in appeals against various decisions of the telecoms regulator. Other clients include Facebook, Amazon Web Services and Swift. ‘Excellent’ practice head Tom De Cordier ‘provides comprehensive regulatory and business advice’. Dirk Van Liedekerke specialises in EU law and telecoms. Associates Anne-Michèle Goris and Adrien van den Branden are also recommended.”

2017: “CMS’ combined IT and IP group is ‘strong both technically and legally’, fielding lawyers who ‘know every trick in the book’. The firm represented Mobistar and BASE in proceedings before the Belgian Constitutional Court and the Court of Justice of the European Union. Practice head Tom De Cordier ‘thinks strategically’ and Alexis Hallemans is very responsive. Tom Heremans is another key figure.”

2016: “CMS’ integrated IT and IP team mainly handles matters regarding domain names, internet marketing, e-commerce, and data privacy. A key client is the ‘.eu’ domain name registry EURid, which was represented in arbitration proceedings before the Czech Arbitration Court. Practice head Tom HeremansRenaud Dupont and Alexis Hallemans are the key partners.”

2015: “CMS’ integrated IP/TMT department assists its clients with issues regarding data privacy, e-commerce, internet marketing and domain names. Clients include media companies, software firms and telecoms companies. Practice head Tom HeremansRenaud Dupont and Veerle Raus are the names to note.”

2014: “CMS has enjoyed a steady flow of work in IT for a notable client base. The firm has extensive experience advising on domain name issues, internet marketing, e-commerce, data protection and privacy matters. Tom Heremans and Renaud Dupont are the key partners and counsel Veerle Raus is also recommended.”

2013: “CMS’ IT disputes experts succesfully represented Deckers Snoeck in a case against Business Software Alliance before the Court of Appeal of Antwerp. The team is also acting in various domain name cases, as well as e-commerce and data privacy matters. Tom HeremansVeerle Raus and Renaud Dupont are recommended.”

2012: “CMS DeBacker’s practice has been busy with work relating to domain names, AdWords, internet marketing and e-commerce. The group recently advised domain name registry EURid in a dispute with a Chinese individual who unlawfully registered 10,000 domain names. Practice head Tom HeremansVeerle Raus and Renaud Dupont are recommended.”

2011: “CMS DeBacker’s lawyers have seen IT-related cases in the Belgian appeals and Supreme Court, and significant volumes of first instance cases on domain name infringement against cyber-squatters. The team advised on a competition app for Facebook, and represented a long-standing client over an argument between two leading brewers, as to alleged infringement of an iPhone app. Tom Heremans is recommended.”

Insolvency and restructuring

2023: "CMS advises on both restructuring and insolvency proceedings, as well as distressed M&A, for domestic and international clients including distressed companies and investors. The team is led by Virginie Frémat in Antwerp and Grégory de Sauvage and Jean-François Goffin in Brussels, and draws on the firm’s employment and commercial departments and global network. Testimonials: ‘The team is very responsive and reactive. We receive accurate and informative answers, with very practical insights into all our questions.’ -  The team are very professional and their advice is always appropriate in each specific context. Their knowledge about insolvency, judicial reorganisation procedures, and shareholder rights is really excellent and working with them was very reassuring.’ - ‘The firm was extremely responsive and available.’ - ‘They are clear about the available options in a constructive way, always showing respect for both the law and the people. They understand the ins and outs of the business so that the solution proposed enables moving forward and avoiding staying stuck.’ - ‘Grégory de Sauvage is very efficient, and conscious of our constraints and practical needs.’- ‘Jean-Luc Hagon is an available, sympathetic, and educational lawyer. It’s very nice to work with him.’  Key clients: Broekman Logistics, Société Générale, GE Healthcare/Medex, Credis (Nethys), Republic of Albania, BorgWarner, Delvaux, AG Real Estate, SOGEPA, Circular Interiors (Ahrend group). Work highlights: Advised Broekman Logistics in respect of the sale of the former VLS-Group Belgium to Van Moer Logistics, which was finalised in July 2022. -  Advised French bank Société Générale on the complex and cross-border judicial reorganisation of the Hamon group. - Advised GE HEALTHCARE on recovering a claim in the bankruptcy of one of its partners in proceedings against ING."

2022: "CMS advises distressed companies and their directors on pure and soft insolvency proceedings, alongside cross-border business restructurings and judicial reorganisations. The team has particular strength in the retail sector, with a number of national and international clients within the space, and also regularly advises financial institution and investments funds on handling the insolvency of debtors. The practice is led by Virginie Frémat, who has experience in distressed M&A and restructuring transactions, alongside Jean-François Goffin, who takes the lead on insolvency processes and has notable expertise in directors’ liability issues."

2021: "At CMS, the 'extremely thorough' insolvency and restructuring department leverages its multi-disciplinary expertise – particularly in employment and insurance law – to assist clients with safety precautions following obtaining ailing company status, and with the management of any related litigation. Practice head Jean-François Goffin specialises in directors' and officers' liability issues, while Virginie Frémat has experience in distressed M&A and restructuring transactions. Feedback from clients: ‘I would recommend the team strongly for the following reasons: they are real experts, who know what they are talking about and have very broad experience in handling these types of cases. Showing up at a court with CMS as your lawyers already gives the client an advantage: the courts know their seriousness and appreciate it. They are extremely thorough when working on a file and don’t overlook anything.’ - ‘Very professional experts and very responsive; they always try to revert to you within 24 hours. Very open and accept a challenge.’ - ‘They are very responsive to queries and have broad in-house coverage of various legal areas, as well as flexibility in working out practical solutions.’ Key clients: Origin Wine, La Grande Récré, DALKIA BIOGAS, Umedia, Educinvest, Mestdagh, Tronox, Big Fish, JML Concept, GE Healthcare, Nutara, MaxiToys. Work highlights: Assisting the Maxi Toys group in Belgium, France, Luxembourg and Switzerland on a cross-border restructuring. - Acting for Dalkia Biogas Belgique in a dispute against a bank claiming funds from the takeover of an insolvent company by a joint venture created by Dalkia and a German company."

2020: "CMS has experience assisting companies, directors and financial institutions facing difficulties, as well as companies involved in the insolvencies of business partners. The practice benefits from the ability to field a multidisciplinary team from its full-service offering. Jean-François Goffin leads the team and has particular expertise in director liability issues. Feedback from clients: ‘Pro-active approach and very responsive which is important in critical, difficult times; able to develop various options and scenarios with their respective pros and cons.‘ - ‘Banking and finance associate partner Benoit Vandervelde has a very pragmatic approach to achieve realistic outcomes'."

2019: "CMS’ insolvency and restructuring team has been particularly active in the retail sector. It advised GiFi on the closure of its Belgium stores and bankruptcy of its nine Belgian subsidiaries. The group also assisted Brico following the financial difficulties of one of its biggest franchisors. In another matter, the group is acting for Verdesis in a dispute brought by a bank concerning money lent by the latter to an insolvent company taken over by the client. Jean-François Goffin heads up the practice."

2018: “At CMS, the team has ‘a decisive, practical and business-like’ approach and the ability to ‘consider the continuity of the business at all times’. Practice head Jean-François Goffin recently advised Idempapers on its judicial reorganisation. On the creditor side, Goffin is advising Namur Invest on Promomed’s bankruptcy proceedings.”

2017: “CMS’ court litigation expertise includes shareholder disputes and directors’ liabilities cases arising from distressed situations, judicial reorganisations and debt restructuring. Jean-François Goffin heads the team, which includes Stéphane Collin, Carl Leermakers and senior associate Grégory de Sauvage.”

2016: “Jean-François Goffin heads the department at CMS, which handles pure insolvency and restructuring mandates as well as ‘soft’ restructuring as part of corporate realignment. The team often works in tandem with the firm’s employment practice.”

2015: “CMS’ team attracts a steady flow of restructuring and insolvency matters, and co-operates closely with colleagues in the employment practice. Jean-François Goffin is the key figure in the team, which mainly acts for public bodies and Belgian and international companies.

Insurance

2023: "CMS‘s ‘professional, diligent, and objective‘ insurance team advises on issues ranging from strategic planning to day-to-day operations and contentious proceedings. Antwerp-based Virginie Frémat has extensive experience in litigation, while Benoît Vandervelde in Brussels is a financial services specialist with particularly strong knowledge of regulation and a growing focus on insurance technology. Carl Leermakers and Tom De Cordier are joint team heads with Frémat and Vandervelde, and the practice is well regarded for cross-border work. Senior associate Julie De Pauw is also recommended as a key contact for policy review and liability issues. Testimonials: Professional, diligent, and objective. The team is able to clearly articulate my options and provide considered views to guide me through complex international matters. They have also delivered an invaluable service in helping me to understand procedural matters in foreign jurisdictions.’ - ‘The team are knowledgeable, pragmatic and responsive. The service they provide is also good value for money. They keep their billing transparent and reasonable.’ - ‘They have a large network of insurance contacts, both internationally within the CMS network and within the insurance industry. Additionally, they have all the necessary in-house knowledge to advise on various corporate topics.’ - ‘Great availability of the partners, and a low threshold to get in contact with the senior partners.’ - ‘The practice always aims to provide support in problem-solving through negotiations, instead of litigating cases.’ - ‘Good knowledge of insurance law in Belgium. When asked to localise UK wording, they know exactly which part is UK law, they know what is compulsory in Belgium and needs to be added, and they know local practices very well. And even in busy times, they make time for the person behind the request.’ - ‘We’ve worked with Virginie Frémat and Julie De Pauw recently. We’ve specifically appreciated their efforts in clarifying our company’s insurance policies and clearly translating this into business coverage, in a way our own insurance broker was unable or unwilling to do.’ - ‘Virginie Frémat, Julie De Pauw, and Tom De Cordier all have good work skills, get the work done (with no excuses), and are flexible in their way of working.’  Key clients: AIG Cyberedge, Cigna Insurance company, Ardonagh, Aviva, Hokodo, Chubb, AXA XL, Tokio Marine, Howden Broking Group, Markel, Lloyds Insurance Company, CNA Insurance Company, Ryan Specialty Group Sweden, Navigators Underwriting Agency, The Hartford . Work highlights: Assisted reinsurer Monument Re. Ltd with the legal due diligence in connection with the envisaged acquisition through an asset transaction of multiple assets within the portfolio of NN Insurance Belgium NV. - Assisting Transact Risk Partners, a division of Castel Underwriting Agencies Limited, in a potential claim from a policyholder under a warranty and indemnity insurance policy. - Advised Cigna on its new structure, including assistance in discussions with the Belgian regulators, portfolio transfer matters, distribution and outsourcing."

2022: "CMS advises insurers and brokers on claims defence and insurance coverage matters, as well as high-value market loss and catastrophe claims. The practice has expertise across W&I and D&O policies, insurance litigation, regulatory issues, and data protection for insurance sector clients, and has an active cross-border reach throughout Europe as well as domestic capabilities. An extensive senior team combines financial services regulatory and litigation expertise, and is led by Virginie Frémat, Carl Leermakers, Benoît Vandervelde, and Tom De Cordier, with senior associate Julie De Pauw a key contributor across policy reviews, liability, and claims. Testimonials: ‘Benoit Vandervelde is hands on and thus provides advice which can be applied by companies.’ - ‘Benoit Vandervelde is easy to reach, giving short to the point advice and pleasant to work with.’
‘The are various disciplines from compliance to fiscal and business itself. It is useful to have the various people together inhouse, that avoids delays. Response times are very good.’ - ‘High level of service, outstanding insurance practice, very pragmatic with a market leading reputation for Cyber and Environmental Risks cases and insurance coverage cases.’ - ‘Virginie Fremat- high level of expertise, well respected, service oriented and pragmatic approach.’ - ‘Julie De Pauw- excellent technical and industry knowledge, handling complex liability cases.’ - ‘Competent and effective in resolving claims from various technical fields.’ - ‘We mainly have been working with Virginie Fremat. She handles our cases together with various colleagues, depending on the focus of the case.’"

2021: "The 'sharp', 'tenacious' and 'to-the-point' insurance practice at CMS demonstrates 'a modern-day, hands-on mentality and solution-driven approach' to the cross-border advice it provides for clients including insurers, reinsurers and brokers. Matters typically involve warranty and indemnity provisions, data protection or breach fallout, and rental agreements. Department head Virginie Frémat is praised for her 'high level of expertise' when providing coverage advice and drafting new policies to launch on the Belgian market, while associate Julie De Pauw has 'excellent technical and industry knowledge of complex liability cases'. Benoît Vandervelde made partner in January 2020. Feedbcak from clients: ‘CMS is a highly skilled but very approachable and modern law firm. I would say they are more active in engaging in face-to-face contact with their clients than other firms.’ - ‘CMS is a hands-on law firm that always seeks amicable solutions for its cases, rather than engaging in lengthy proceedings.’ - ‘The individuals all show a modern-day, hands-on mentality and solution-driven approach to their cases.’ Key clients: AON, CHUBB, Markel, AIG Cyberedge, Zurich Insurance, Swiss Re Corporate Solutions, Gothaer, AXA XL, Assurances Crédit Mutuel, North Europe Life Belgium, North Europe Life Luxembourg, Cigna Life Insurance Company. Work highlights:  Advising Toyota regarding a new warranty system and the offering of a warranty on mechanical and electronic parts of vehicles. -  Advised English broker Howden on setting up a structure in Belgium and on obtaining a new Belgian licence as an insurance intermediary. - Advising the Belgian subsidiary of Lloyd’s Insurance Company, set up in the context of Brexit, in connection with the new Belgian status of managing general agent and its impact on the cover holder’s existing position."

2020: "CMS has a deep bench of insurance sector experts across a wide range of disciplines, which is complemented by the firm's international reach, enabling it to provide a full range of cross-border services to insurers, reinsurers and brokers. A team led by Tom De Cordier provides a first response service to AIG and its insured parties in more than 50 countries in relation to the clients 'Cyberedge' data breach insurance product. Also notable is that Virginie Frémat, Benoît Vandervelde and associate Julie De Pauw assisted Price Forbes UK with setting up a Belgian subsidiary company in order for it to carry out insurance mediation activities in the EEA post-Brexit. On the contentious side, Frémat and associate Xenia Vandenabeele are representing AIG (as the insurer of the Vandemoortele group) in a recourse claim. Frémat and Vandervelde were promoted to partner and associate partner respectively in January 2019. Feedback from clients: ‘Special mention for Virginie Frémat and associate Pieter Dieltjens for their thorough file knowledge. We were very satisfied with their input, availability, working against deadlines and good communication‘ -  ‘Virginie Frémat and Benoît Vandervelde provide quick and competent advice, have a pragmatic approach and offer fair pricing‘."

2019: “CMS serves as a one-stop shop to insurers, reinsurers and brokers, and its sizeable geographical footprint makes it a particularly strong choice for cross-border insurance work. The firm covers the market extensively; led by associate partner Virginie Frémat, its team is highly active in defending insurance claims, advising on coverage issues, insurance policy drafting, insurance litigation and arbitration. Another driver of activity has been the advice to various insurers and brokers on establishing operations in the EU to ensure a smooth transition post-Brexit; a recent highlight saw counsel Benoît Vandervelde advise Willis Towers Watson on the establishment of a base in the EU. In another matter, Frémat and Carl Leermakers assisted Jardin Lloyd Thompson with acquiring Belgibo from Exmar Group, which enabled the client to establish a firm presence in continental Europe. Other clients include Samsung, Swissport and North Europe Life Belgium."

Intellectual Property

2023: "Drawing on the experience of lawyers across its intellectual property, TMT, and commercial litigation departments, CMS has a strong reputation for IP work. Tom Heremans and Renaud Dupont co-lead the ‘highly responsive‘ team, which handles both non-contentious and contentious matters, with appearances before national and European courts up to the CJEU. Senior associate Lisbeth Depypere is also well regarded, and, as a qualified mediator, is a key contact for clients pursuing alternative dispute resolution (ADR). Testimonials: ‘Highly responsive team with the focus to maintain and emphasise the main line of argument in complex litigation matters.’ - ‘High level of expertise in court proceedings with an international element. Excellent English language support. Reliable assessment of trade mark and competition law issues in an international context. Absolutely reliable deadline management.’- ‘Tom Heremans and Lisbeth Depypere are highly competent IP lawyers with a clear view of complex litigation matters.’- ‘Total willingness to evaluate legal matters in consideration of the client’s interests. High degree of availability for the development of strategies, both procedural and non-procedural. Professional guidance in court proceedings. Tom Heremans and Lisbeth Depypere stand out.’ Key clients: Amazon, Aveve, Colruyt, Mountain Warehouse Ltd, HENKEL, Troostwijk,  KASPA, Robshare, Delvaux, Eko Okna, M-A-S and BASE Solution GmbH, Sky.  Work highlights: Representing two US entities of Amazon in trade mark infringement proceedings against Christian Louboutin before the Brussels court. - Assisting Aveve with a case concerning the counterfeit of the packaging of four of its bread mix products. - Representing Colruyt in litigation concerning its new beer, which was marketed under the trade mark Majeur."

2022: "Leveraging its formidable global footprint and cross-departmental practice, CMS handles IP mandates for blue-chip clients from the tech, media, consumer goods, chemicals and manufacturing sectors. Recent highlights for the team include counterfeit disputes, trademark oppositions and high-profile trademark infringement proceedings before both the Brussels Court and the Court of Justice of the European Union. The practice is jointly led by Tom Heremans, whose key clients include e-commerce companies and international football organisations, and Renaud Dupont, whose broad practice encompasses licence agreements and franchising. Lisbeth Depypere is recommended for her knowledge of trade secrets and advertising practices. Testimonials: ‘The team has good IP subject matter expertise in Belgium. Their written work product is strong.’
‘Tom Heremans and Renaud Dupont are trusted IP partners who bring expertise and common sense to bear.’ - ‘Very straightforward advice and communications.’ - ‘CMS Belgium is engaged and very professional. CMS Belgium excellently handle the cross-border aspects of the matter.’ - ‘They listen to the client and understand what is important for us. When giving the advice, they take into account the specificities of the client and the urgency of the topic.’ - ‘I have worked with Tom Heremans at CMS on several matters. I look to Tom for matters in the Benelux countries related to litigation and possible litigation and for complicated opinions. Tom is extremely smart and creative yet has a practical and strategic view of matters.’ - 
‘Tom Heremans and Lisbeth Depypere are highly knowledgeable lawyers. They provide honest assessment on the chances of success. They have a good understanding of the commercial interests and the focus of their clients.’"

2021: "At CMS, managing partner Renaud Dupont is a member of the Benelux Trademarks Associations (BMM) and the European Community trademark association (ECTA), as well as chairing the board of directors at the AIPPI (Association Internationale pour la Protection de la Propriété Intellectuelle). Dupont co-heads the practice with Tom Heremans, which is noted for its extensive experience of IP disputes. The team also covers a wide ambit of issues relating to trade marks, patents and copyrights. Heremans and senior associate Lisbeth Depypere are assisting Okay Supermarkten with defending IP rights over its shopping cart logo by way of litigation, with other competitors using similar illustrations. Key clients: Colruyt, Amazon, Troostwijk, EURid, Leonidas, Sisley, Glutton, Birkenstock, DPG Media, M7 Group, Jollymex, PPG. Work highlights: 
Represented Amazon in the lawsuit initiated by Christian Louboutin against two US entities of Amazon in relation to the alleged infringement of Louboutin’s red sole trademark by third party vendors on Amazon.com. -  Representing the famous Belgian chocolates producer Leonidas in several proceedings initiated by the French fashion designer Jean Cassegrain/Longchamp for alleged copyright infringement. - Represented FIFA in litigation initiated by a Belgian individual who claims to have invented the Video Assisted Referee system (VAR)."

2020: "Tom Heremans and Renaud Dupont are the key individuals at CMS, which is perhaps best known for its capabilities in domestic and cross-border patent, copyright and trade mark work. Clients from the chemicals, media, technology and consumer goods sectors are prominent in instructions."

2019: "With 'expertise that covers a wide range of legal areas, including competition, EU regulatory and privacy', CMS' IT and telecoms team is made up of 'excellent' and 'very dedicated' lawyers offering 'top-notch advice'. 'Exceptional lawyer' Dirk Van Liedekerke, who has particular experience in EU and Belgian competition and telecoms law, leads a team that defends Facebook before the Belgian courts against allegations of infringements of EU and national rules on privacy protection through the use of cookies and pixels. The department also assisted Sagi Export with its successful bid for a contract with the Belgian Ministry of Justice for the provision of in-prison telephony and other electronic communications services. Tom De Cordier heads the practice alongside Van Liedekerke and is a key name to note, particularly for data privacy matters."

2018: “CMS represents companies in highly regulated sectors, including TMT, chemicals, food and beverage and pharmaceutical. The IP team covers patents, copyrights and trade marks, with ancillary expertise in anti-counterfeiting and customs actions. Tom Heremans heads the department; Renaud Dupont and Tom De Cordier are also active members of the team.”

2017: “The IP attorneys at CMS are ‘on the ball’ and ‘among Belgium’s foremost specialists in the field’. Highlights included advising retailer Colruyt in proceedings against Chiara Boni before the Brussels Court of Appeal regarding the trade mark for its private label, Boni Selection. Practice head Tom Heremans gives ‘hands-on advice’.”

2016: “CMS is known for its ‘deep IP knowledge and good network’. Highlights included representing fashion company Orchestra-Prémaman regarding the alleged use of the tap and arcuate trade marks of Levi Strauss on its jeans. Practice head Tom Heremans is valued for his ‘hands-on approach’, and Alexis Hallemans is ‘a quick thinker’. Tom De Cordier joined from Allen & Overy LLP.”

2015: “CMS successfully represented Proterram in litigation with Carlsberg Import in connection with a dispute about the distribution of La Ramée special beer. Tom Heremans is the head of department."

2014: “CMS’ broad practice represented AMP (a subsidiary of Lagardère Belgium) in a copyright dispute with sports magazine, Photonews. Tom Heremans and Renaud Dupont are the key contacts."

2013: “CMS ‘knows the industry well and responds swiftly’. Renaud Dupont led the team in succesfully defending French watchmaker CMC diffusion against counterfeiting claims brought by Ice Watch. The ‘experienced’ Tom Heremans and the ‘knowledgeable’ Veerle Raus are also recommended, as is senior associate Alexis Hallemans."

2012: “CMS DeBacker recently represented steel producer Duferco in patent litigation against TPS Group and acted for international football associations FIFA and UEFA in various trade mark matters. Tom Heremans is a key contact, and is affiliated with a number of IP bodies such as the Benelux Trademark Association (of which he became president in 2011) and the Belgian Intellectual Property Council. Veerle Raus and Renaud Dupont are also recommended."

2011: “CMS DeBacker’s Tom Heremans and Veerle Raus are recommended figures, with particular strengths in tradebmark and copyright law, especially in ambush marketing and counterfeiting cases, including those in relation to the recent World Cup. It acted for a leading paper towel manufacturer on whether refills of other brands of paper, dispensed from the manufacturer’s dispensers, can count as a trade mark infringement."

Media and entertainment

2023: "Able to draw on the talents of a large European network of expert media practitioners, CMS regularly works on cross-border projects, advising a host of blue-chips on trademark mandates and broadcasting rights, among other matters. With over 20 years of experience, practice co-chair Dirk Van Liedekerke is highly knowledgeable in the realm of EU and Belgian competition law and telecommunications law. Tom Heremans - who is particularly proficient in advertising and marketing and distribution law - is a seasoned advocate before the Court of Justice of EU, and regularly advises sport associations on piracy and customs matters. Renaud Dupont is noted for his experience in distribution agreements. Testimonials: ‘The team is strong.’ - ‘The team is well-structured, with no missing links.’ Key clients: Proximus, FIFA, Napoleon, Facebook, Airbnb, Anda Ackx, Amazon. Work highlights: Assisted Proximus in the arbitration proceedings against the Pro League, regarding the early termination of the competition due to COVID-19. - Represented FIFA in the Doyen Sports/Seraing cases (both in the Brussels and Liège courts) on the legality of the FIFA prohibition on third party ownership in the context of the sportive sanctions that have been imposed on football club Seraing. - Represented Napoleon Group in respect of a series of commercial and regulatory matters, including several litigations in front of the Constitutional Court, the Administrative Supreme Court and the civil courts."

2022: "A litany of blue-chip media conglomerates, sports associations, and major corporations turn to the sizeable team at CMS for assistance with contentious and non-contentious assignments. IP disputes are a key strength for the cross-practice group, with recent highlights including high-profile anti-counterfeiting actions, trademark infringements and contractual breaches. Tom Heremans acts for world-leading entertainment companies and international football organisations in a range of copyright and patent litigation proceedings. Managing partner Renaud Dupont is noted for his expertise in distribution agreements."

2021: "The media, telecoms and gambling department at CMS is an attractive option for clients on cross-border disputes and transactional matters given the firm's wide-reaching international network. Its team is jointly led by IP and disputes partner Tom Heremans and Dirk Van Liedekerke, who focuses on electronic communications and EU competition law. Technology specialist Tom De Cordier is a further name to note for data protection and data privacy advice. Other areas of strength include trade mark enforcement and portfolio management, as well as commercial and copyright litigation. Key clients: Amazon, Rossel Group, Sharingbox, DNS Belgium, DPG Media, FIFA and UEFA, Norkring, EURid, Live Entertainment, Proximus, Deliveroo. Work highlights: Representing Facebook in front of the Belgian courts in proceedings brought by the Belgian Data Protection Authority for a series of alleged infringements of EU and national rules on privacy protection. - Representing FIFA in the Doyen Sports/Seraing cases over the legality of the prohibition on third-party ownership, following sanctions imposed upon RFC Seraing. - Representing Amazon in trade mark infringement proceedings against Christian Louboutin, following alleged infringements upon its red sole trade mark by third parties selling shoes on the Amazon.com website."

2020: "The media and entertainment practice at CMS handles local and cross-border transactions and disputes, and benefits from its ability to leverage the firm's international network. The team is jointly led by Tom Heremans, who handles IP and commercial litigation, and Dirk Van Liedekerke, who focuses on electronic communications and EU and Belgian competition law. Tom De Cordier is a name to note for data privacy advice."

2019: "CMS' media and entertainment team acts for client ranging from FIFA and UEFA to M7 Group and Tipik. The group is defending Facebook before the Court of Appeal against allegations of infringement of EU and national rules on privacy protection regarding the use of cookies and pixels brought by the Belgian Privacy Commission. Tom Heremans, who has particular expertise in IP, advertising and marketing, e-commerce and privacy, heads the team alongside competition law specialist Dirk Van Liedekerke."

2018: “CMS has a good track record handling M&A and commercial and IP litigation for sports and media companies; it also benefits from the firm’s extensive European office network in EU-wide matters. Key practitioners in the multi-disciplinary team are Tom Heremans, Tom De Cordier and Renaud Dupont.”

2017: “CMS’ combined IP/TMT team represented telemarketing company Link2Biz before the Belgian competition authorities in a case against Bpost regarding an abuse of dominant market position. Tom Heremans, Tom De Cordier, Alexis Hallemans and Renaud Dupont are the key contacts.”

2016: “The IP/TMT team at CMS handles a large number of matters for clients in the media sector; recently, it acted for TV Vlaanderen and M7 Group against Bhaalu in an IP-related lawsuit. Tom HeremansAlexis Hallemans and Renaud Dupont are the names to note.”

2015: "CMS’ TMT practice represented the Flemish media company Medialaan. Tom HeremansVeerle Raus and Renaud Dupont are the names to note.”

2014: "CMS’ technology, media and telecoms department is a core area for the firm and it receives a steady flow of work from high-profile clients including AB InBev and Diageo. Tom HeremansVeerle Raus and Renaud Dupont are the key partners.”

2013: "CMS remains active across the sector and advises the M7 Group on copyright and media law relating to satellite broadcasting. The key partners are Tom HeremansVeerle Raus and Renaud Dupont.”

2012: "Recent work for CMS DeBacker includes acting for M7 Group in a Court of Appeal case against the collecting societies, relating to a royalties claim for the alleged retransmission of broadcasting signals via the ASTRA satellite. Tom HeremansVeerle Raus and Renaud Dupont are noteworthy practitioners.”

Privacy and Data Protection

2023: "The ‘dedicated, flexible‘ team at CMS handles GDPR compliance for global clients, data breach response and risk management mandates, and large-scale data projects, as well as representing major clients including Facebook in litigation before Belgian and European data authorities. The firm acts for a wide range of global names in fields such as tech and consumer goods, and is able to collaborate with its international offices on cross-border mandates. Tom De Cordier leads the team, specialising in high-stakes global data and cybersecurity mandates, while senior associate Thomas Dubuisson takes the lead on data-related litigation, and fellow senior associate Deven Dobbelaere is noted for his work as an in-house DPO for key clients. Testimonials: ‘Personal client contact and practical approach.’ - ‘Tom de Cordier and Deven Dobbelaere provide practical and down-to-earth advice and try to think broader than the privacy practice.’ - ‘Dedicated, flexible, easy to connect with.’ - ‘CMS’s broad network together with deep expertise covers all over Europe and CIS. This wide coverage makes this firm different from the others. Their work product is always value for money.’ - ‘Tom De Cordier is a very impressive partner who has very deep knowledge in the areas of data protection and telecommunication in the EU and Belgium.’ Key clients:  Facebook, McCain, Yondr, STIB/MIVB (Brussels public transport company). Work highlights: Representing Facebook in front of the Belgian Courts in proceedings brought against Facebook Inc., Facebook Ireland and Facebook Belgium by the Belgian Data Protection Authority for a series of alleged infringements of EU and national rules on privacy protection regarding the use of cookies and pixels. - Advising global food manufacturer, McCain, on the implementation of the GDPR requirements across the whole spectrum of their European operations. -  Assisiting Yondr, a young global company that helps businesses fund, design, deliver and operate their data center capacity and technical real estate, in the implementation of the GDPR across all its operations globally."
 

2022: "CMS combines European and global data protection and risk management advice with a notable cyber breach response offering, working with a number of high-profile tech clients, many of which hold large amounts of sensitive data. The firm also provides an in-house data protection officer service, and has a strong presence within the digital economy sector. The practice is headed up by Tom De Cordier, a longstanding player in the data privacy space and a regular adviser to major companies on large-scale data projects, as well as a contributor to thought leadership on the subject. Testimonials: ‘Tom De Cordier: I appreciate the down to earth approach, the willingness to underpin advice with context, and most of all willingness to listen, really listen to the points being raised, perhaps in defence of a different viewpoint.’"

2021: "CMS' team 'unites deep subject matter knowledge on data protection matters, pragmatism and agility'. It is providing ongoing advice to McCain on post-GDPR implementation actions across Europe and has recently been assisting the client with a global inter-company data processing agreement. Practice head Tom De Cordier is 'like a rock in any storm, knowledgeable and responsive and with a good business acumen'. Associates Janick Van Daele, Deven Dobbelaere and Thomas Dubuisson are other names to note. Feedback from clients: ‘A team with good energy and capacities and able to step in for each other when needed‘. - ‘Tom De Cordier’s strengths are in-depth knowledge about data protection laws as well as data security measures, commercial awareness, responsiveness, value for money, and excellent liaison skills in handling global data protection matters‘. Key clients: Checkster, Elia, Facebook, McCain, Miraclon, Sotera, Vocalcom, Yondr."

2020: "Multinational data protection compliance matters are a core area of strength for CMS' team. The client roster includes international names in the food, technology, healthcare, energy and financial services sectors. Practice head Tom De Cordier is 'knowledgeable' and 'always fast to respond'. Feedback from clients: 'The privacy and data protection team is strong on the legal points, very responsive and available and reacts quickly with pragmatic solutions‘."

2019: "CMS' 'very experienced and pragmatic' team is perhaps best known for its well-established expertise in multinational data protection compliance work, and is equally adept at handling security breaches, privacy matters, and local data protection issues. Practice head Tom De Cordier is assisting McCain with post-GDPR implementation actions, after advising the same client on GDPR compliance across its European business."

2018: “At CMS, the ‘responsive and pragmatic’ team excels in multinational data protection compliance projects and also handles local data protection work, security breaches and data transfers. Department head Tom De Cordier has ‘in-depth knowledge and business understanding’ and is assisting McCain with GDPR compliance across its European business.”

2017: “Tom De Cordier leads CMS’ team, which handles data security breaches, data protection policy reviews and cross-border data transfers. Recent highlights include advising Randstad on a global GDPR compliance project.”

Real Estate and Construction

2023: "CMS advises on real estate issues including investment, occupancy, development, and financing for a client base including banks, investment funds, and hotel operators. Practice head Bruno Duquesne has experience in asset and share deals and portfolio management. Pierre-Axel Chabot is particularly well regarded in the hotels and hospitality sector, while senior associate Catherine Matton is also recommended. Key clients: Münchener Hypothekenbank, Everland, Sowaer, Fidentia Real Estate, Blueground Corporate Housing, Abattoir, Mitiska, SLRB – CityDev, Immowal, Castleforge, Cokoon, Eiffage Development, Standard International, Ennismore Hotel Hoxton, M&G Real Estate . Work highlights: Acting on a property finance transaction on behalf of Münchener Hypothekenbank. - Acting on behalf of Belgian real estate investment fund and asset manager Fidentia Real Estate on a sale and leaseback transaction with Pfizer. - Assisting Everland, a hospitality asset manager and developer, on the development of several housing and hospitality projects in Belgium."

2022: "CMS has a strong focus on commercial property, advising asset managers, investors, and developers on transactions, developments, and construction contracts primarily within the hotel and hospitality sectors. Work includes property financing, occupancy agreements, and an array of cross-border real estate investments. The practice is led by Bruno Duquesne, who advises on domestic and cross-border transactions and financing matters. Pierre-Axel Chabot specialises in retail and hotel sector work, including transactions, contracts, and construction disputes. Senior associate Catherine Matton is active across acquisitions, lease agreements, and construction. Testimonials: ‘Excellent technological support, great network over several countries allowing the firm to render excellent advice in multi-jurisdictional deals at a high level. Great flexibility in proposing secondees during times we need more support. Very pleasant team with great know-how.’ - ‘Benoît Vandervelde is a very efficient and pleasant partner with excellent know-how in real estate matters.’ - ‘They are a very user friendly and highly skilled team. They offer clear commercial advice and will provide an opinion rather than sitting on the fence.’ - ‘Bruno Duquesne-commercially bright and very easy to deal with. Always good quality considered advice.’ - ‘Catherine Matton-very organised and always on top of the issue at hand. Has a forensic grasp of the detail.’ - ‘The team was very well rounded and had expertise in every area where we needed assistance. Its definitely a comprehensive practice.’ - ‘Pierre-Axel Chabot is a great lawyer; very hands on and thorough. He was easy for an American company to work with.’ - ‘CMS Real Estate team knows how to adapt and advise foreign clients with great clarity and patience. Very business oriented, with an ability to remain firm while being commercial which allows quality transactions to be signed quickly.’"

2021: "CMS' 'experienced and user-friendly' team has 'deep understanding of real estate, tax and construction', and is 'very good at cutting through the issues and giving solid practical advice'. Practice head Bruno Duquesne is 'clearly very experienced and understands the market'. Pierre-Axel Chabot advises retail sector entities on a wide spectrum of real estate matters. Senior associate Catherine Matton has 'an excellent eye for details and she is a very skilled, fast-thinking lawyer'. Feedbcak from clients: ‘Bruno Duquesne is always calm and collected and gives easy to understand practical advice‘. - ‘Catherine Matton: her attention to detail and grasp on the finer points was impressive‘. - ‘Bruno Duquesne is a very skilled and experienced all-around lawyer who is capable of providing sound legal advice. He is pragmatic and is focused on finding a solution in order for the client to achieve the best deal possible. He thinks from a commercial perspective‘. Key clients: Investcorp, Fidentia Real Estate, NH Hotels, WeWork, Tesla, Honeywell, European Commission, Logicor, Work highlights: Provides ongoing advice to the European Commission in connection with its Loi 130 architectural project in Brussels. - Advised Investcorp on its €88m acquisition of the Brussels headquarters of Coca-Cola via a sale and leaseback transaction. - Advised Eiffage Développement on a hotel development project."

2020: "The 'very experienced' Bruno Duquesne leads CMS' 'ultra-responsive' and 'pragmatic' team, which counts transactional real estate matters, property finance and development projects as core areas of expertise. The 'very available' Pierre-Axel Chabot is noted for his extensive experience in handling instructions from retail sector entities. Feedback from clients: ‘Bruno Duquesne in Brussels offers a commercial attitude paired with professional experience‘. - ‘Pierre-Axel Chabot truly knows and understands real estate from an investor perspective. He is a very tough negotiator‘."

2019: "CMS provides 'a very high level of service', and is noted for its extensive experience in property finance, development projects and transactional real estate matters. The client roster includes Fidentia BelLx Investments, NH Hotels, Siemens and Hard Rock Cafe. Bruno Duquesne leads the team, in which Pierre-Axel Chabot ('a real negotiator') is a key name."

2018: “At CMS, the real estate group’s ‘local experience, connections and insights are invaluable’ and it is also highlighted for offering ‘good value for money’. Transactional real estate and property finance are among the team’s areas of expertise. In addition, its urban planning and environmental law capabilities were strengthened by the arrival of counsel Gregory Verhelst in 2016 from a Belgian firm. Pierre-Axel Chabot is active in the hotels industry. Bruno Duquesne is also recommended.”

2017: “Clients appreciate the ‘accuracy and speed’ of advice provided by CMS, which acted for Unibail-Rodamco on all tax aspects of Project Neo, a planned mixed-use urban regeneration project in Brussels. Practice head Bruno Duquesne is a property finance expert and Pierre-Axel Chabot is also recommended.”

2016: “CMS advises on all areas of real estate and construction law, including transactions, financing, planning and litigation. Recent work includes assisting real estate company Banimmo with a €44m private bond issuance. Practice head Bruno Duquesne is an expert in property finance.”

2015: “CMS advised a consortium made up of Unibail Rodamco, Besix and CFE on all real estate and tax aspects of the consortium’s bid to redevelop the multi-purpose Heysel Exhibition site. Practice head Bruno Duquesne focuses on real estate finance.”

2014: “CMS advised Terrebois, the private equity and real estate investment arm of Unibra, on the acquisition of a real estate company from real estate investment fund Internos. Department head Bruno Duquesne is recognised for his expertise in property finance [...] and Pierre-Axel Chabot is also recommended.”

2013: “CMS’ ‘proactive and knowledgeable’ practice advises on real estate investment, financing, developments and litigation, as well as PPPs, environment and tax matters. Pierre-Axel Chabot has ‘excellent negotiation skills’, and practice head Bruno Duquesne and senior associate Stacey Smits are also recommended.”

2012: “CMS DeBacker’s ‘whole team is very proactive’, and ‘understands its clients’ businesses and imperatives’. The group recently advised KBC and ING on financing a €120m property investment by Banimmo. Pierre-Axel Chabot has ‘excellent industry knowledge and gives concise to-the-point advice’, and practice head Bruno Duquesne is also recommended.”

2011: “CMS DeBacker’s head of practice Bruno Duquesne and the team received instructions from Westimmo, on a €70m financing of the acquisition of a newly developed built-to-suit office building in Brussels. It also assisted the city government of Brussels with a framework for the redevelopment of a derelict industrial area, and has acted for Brussels Harbour. RBS is a lender client. Pierre-Axel Chabot is also recommended.”

Retail

2023: "Able to draw on its large global network, the retail department at CMS possesses thorough knowledge of commercial leases, development strategy and commercial promotions, and routinely assists significant retailers across multiple practice areas. Renaud Dupont is particularly proficient in distribution agreements, including franchising, agency and licence agreements; he also possesses thorough expertise in trade secret and unfair competition matters. Tom Heremans, who often works alongside foodstuff manufacturers, is noted for his expertise in advertising and marketing, internet and e-commerce, and distribution law. Testimonials: ‘Deep sectorial knowledge, very solution-oriented, and a very responsive team.’  Key clients: Primark, eBay, AVEVE, Amazon, Delvaux, Celio, Deliveroo, Colruyt, Go Sport, Medi-Market, Hermès, Mestdagh, Cophana, Delhaize, Leonidas, Sportsdirect. Work highlights: Advised Primark in relation to their advertising campaigns focusing on sustainability, and on commercial contracts and in one dispute about late payments. - Conducted trademark litigation for eBay against a competitor using the name DealBay, appearing before the Benelux Intellectual Property Office - Represented AVEVE in a dispute against a distributor who copied AVEVE’s packaging of a whole range of baking products."

2022: "Jointly led by Renaud Dupont and Tom Heremans, the practice at CMS routinely works across multiple departments to handle commercial leasing contracts, distribution networks, IP protection cases, and e-commerce issues.  The team is also adept at cross-border restructurings and high-profile court proceedings before the domestic and European courts. Dupont's broad knowledge of distribution agreements makes him a key port of call for various multinational retailers, while Heremans works with major food stuff manufacturers and e-commerce companies on the full spectrum of IP and TMT concerns. Testimonials: ‘Collaborative and reactive team.’ - ‘The team has a very good knowledge of the business of their customers. They are very responsive and deliver excellent legal work.’ - ‘Tom Heremans is our outside brain for legal work.’"

2021: "The 'assertive' and 'very pragmatic' team at CMS is 'able to provide expert advice across the entire spectrum of legal issues' thanks to a full-service and multi-disciplinary approach to matters in the retail sector. Practice co-heads Renaud Dupont, who specialises in distribution-related mandates, and IP expert Tom Heremans advise on commercial lease contracts, trade mark and copyright disputes, cross-border restructurings and terminations of franchise agreements. Recent new clients include Hermès, Medi-Market and Maxi Toys. Feedback from clients: ‘The team is really assertive and has good expertise in the legal aspects of our industry. The team is also very pragmatic. We always receive advice that is adapted to our needs, questions and level of detail that we need for each situation. We really appreciate this way of working. The team is really business-oriented.‘ - ‘Retail is a wide-ranging industry and CMS is able to provide expert advice across the entire spectrum of legal issues.‘ Key clients: Amazon, Lagardère Travel Retail, Boulanger Group, Colruyt, Delhaize, Delvaux, Deliveroo, Hermès, Leen Bakker Leonidas, Medi-Market, Mestdagh, Work highlights: Representing Amazon in trade mark infringement proceedings against Christian Louboutin before the Brussels court. -  Assisting the Maxi Toys group in Belgium, France, Luxembourg and Switzerland in relation to a cross-border restructuring. - Assisting French group Boulanger on its acquisition of the Krëfel group in both Belgium and Luxembourg, handling all legal aspects of the M&A transaction."

Tax

2023: "Drawing on the support of the firm’s global network, CMS fields a multidisciplinary tax team that is especially recommended for its advice on the tax aspects of transactions, restructurings, and reorganisations. Corporate tax specialist Olivier Querinjean heads the team, while Stéphanie Houx focuses on indirect taxation, with particular expertise in advising clients in the real estate sector. The practice is also competent in tax litigation and audits. Testimonials: ‘Excellent expertise, pragmatic advice, value for money.’ -  ‘Great professionalism, availability and responsiveness.’ - ‘The team, notably Olivier Querinjean and Arnout Vaninbroukx, work well together and are skilled in tax legal advice, and are also very diverse. The level of their expertise is excellent. Everything runs smoothly, transparently and easily. Olivier is always available.’  - ‘High level of technical expertise in VAT.’  - ‘Olivier Querinjean is very pragmatic and business-minded, looking for the best results in the most efficient way.’  - ‘Stéphanie Houx is always available for her clients – she gives good advice and is very pragmatic.’  Key clients: Kpler, Elia/50 Hertz, Quantessence/Euroclear, Biogroup LCD, Everland group, AIG, Airbus Defence and Space, Dell/EMC, HiPay Group, Coreso/TSCNET, Nalys, Windvision/Blackrock, Damart, Nexter, Sreim, Honeywell, SOWAER, Suez Group.  Work highlights: Advised Kpler on its corporate restructuring, including the transfer of its head office to Belgium, as well as assisting with setting up an equity incentive plan for its key employees. - Advising the Elia Group on the contractual organisation of cross-border services as part of a global restructuring of intra-group services. - Advising the Quantessence Group on transferring part of its activities from the UK to the EU as a result of Brexit."

2022: CMS combines local and international tax expertise, encompassing direct and indirect taxation, and advises a number of major international clients on tax elements of restructurings, cross-border mergers, and issues relating to VAT and duties. The team is led by Olivier Querinjean, a specialist in corporate tax, who advises companies and investment funds on transactional tax issues. Stéphanie Houx has bolstered the firm’s indirect tax capabilities since her arrival from Allen & Overy LLP in early 2021, and has a notable focus on the real estate sector. Testimonials: ‘The CMS team tends to make itself very available’ - ‘Highly educated professionals with a lot of attention to details. I have been working with Olivier Querinjean since 2014 and always very happy to work with him on very different kind of subjects.’ - ‘Multidisciplinary law firm with a growing tax practise, with access to the CMS network.’ - ‘Stéphanie Houx has strong experience and expertise in VAT matters.’"

2021: "CMS' 'responsive' team handles a broad spectrum of direct and indirect taxation matters, and has had an increase in restructuring mandates. The group's expertise also includes tax litigation, VAT and excise duties, among other areas. Olivier Querinjean leads the group, in which senior associate Arnout  Vaninbroukx and associate Lancelot Decaesstecker are other names to note. Key clients: Amazon, Deliveroo, Dexia, EDF Luminus, Eli Lilly, Thalys, Work highlights: Assisting Barc Lab with various international employment tax matters. - Provides ongoing advice to Deliveroo (both the parent company based in the UK and its Belgian subsidiary) on Belgian tax matters. - Advising technology company Kpler on the tax aspects of its restructuring, including the transfer of its head office to Belgium."

2020: "CMS, whose practice is jointly led by Olivier Querinjean and Didier Grégoire, is strong across all areas of direct and indirect taxation. The firm's ability to coordinate resources across disciplines and across the global network ensures that it consistently attracts high-end, strategically significant work. The group has proven expertise assisting clients with matters such as transfer pricing, reporting obligations and international tax structuring. It also provides day-to-day advice on VAT, tax incentives and local taxes, among other areas. Recent highlights included Grégoire assisting Dassault Aviation group with the tax aspects of the reorganisation of its intra-group financing company and real estate assets in Belgium. Tax litigation is another strong suit of the team, as was evidenced when Grégoire and others successfully represented Groupe Partouche in court proceedings over Caskno's international transfer of seat from Belgium to France."

2019: "CMS' team provides day-to-day assistance with matters concerning areas such as VAT and tax incentives. In addition, it has expertise in more strategic issues, such as inter-group restructurings, transfer pricing, reporting obligations and tax litigation; 'what makes the practice unique is that it has everything in-house - you can ask any tax question concerning any country and you will always have a complete answer '. Also notable is that the team 'gives you an answer very quickly, and the answers are very precise'. The firm's strong offering ensures that it generates work from many leading Belgian and international companies, including Deliveroo and Airbus. It also acts for the Belgian government; in a notable mandate, Olivier Querinjean and Annabelle Lepièce are advising Service Public Fédéral Finances (SPF Finance) on an ECJ preliminary ruling procedure, which relates to the recovery of state aid granted by the Belgian government to a multinational company. Further showcasing the strengths of the practice, Didier Grégoire and others acted for Gesmall on the development of its business in Iran and Morocco, which involved handling the related international tax aspects. Grégoire was also the lead adviser to a consortium - consisting of Unibail-Rodamco, Besix and CFE - on all tax issues associated with the development of the Mall of Europe in Belgium."

2018: “CMS has experience in the gamut of taxation matters, covering direct and indirect tax. It regularly advises its multinational clients on the tax aspects of real estate and corporate transactions. Olivier Querinjean and real estate tax expert Didier Grégoire are the names to note.”

2017: “CMS has ‘excellent knowledge of all tax-related issues’, and there are ‘no nasty surprises regarding fees’. Airbus, Toyota and UBS are active clients. Department head Olivier Querinjean is ‘a good communicator’, with key support coming from real estate tax specialist Didier Grégoire.”

2016: “CMS gives high-quality tax advice in relation to mergers, restructurings, transfer pricing, and structured finance. Head of department Olivier Querinjean ‘gets straight to the point’, Didier Grégoire specialises in real estate tax law.”

2015: “CMS’ practice head Olivier Querinjean has substantial experience in the tax aspects of restructurings, mergers, transfer pricing and structured finance, while Didier Grégoire focuses on real estate-related tax issues. The team has been advising Unibail-Rodamco on the NEO Brussels development project.”

2014: “CMS maintains a good practice with a steady flow of tax work, including advising Orchestra-Kazibao on the integration and reorganisation of Prémaman. Practice head Didier Grégoire is an expert in real estate taxation. Olivier Querinjean advises on the tax aspects of M&A, restructurings, transfer pricing, and structured finance.”

2013: “CMS’ ‘very good’ team is led by Didier Grégoire, who specialises in real estate tax matters and is praised for his ‘ability to adapt to the needs of a customer’. The ‘reliable and available’ Olivier Querinjean focuses on tax aspects of M&A, restructurings, structured financings, transfer pricing, and international tax agreements.”

2012: “CMS DeBacker’s tax department does a ‘very good job at anticipating key issues and delivering practical and quick answers’. The team includes Didier Grégoire, who has a particular focus on real estate tax issues, and Lievin De Wulf, who handles international tax advisory, transactional and contentious mandates. De Wulf recently advised Lombard International Assurances, Luxembourg’s largest life insurer, on tax implications of proposed amendments to the EU Savings Directive.”

2011: “CMS DeBacker provides tax services across a wide range of industry sectors. Practice head Didier Grégoire is a recognised real estate tax expert, especially on the VAT treatment of shopping malls, although his work has included cinemas and developers. Lievin De Wulf advised a large Benelux life insurance provider on the impact of the EU savings directive. Cross-border advice on withholding taxes is also a speciality.”