DLA Piper wins CEELM Deal of the Year for landmark Podravka transaction

A cross-border DLA Piper team led by Partner Marcell M. Németh has been recognised for advising Podravka on a complex EUR50 million EBRD equity investment – highlighting the strength of our regional collaboration and expertise in international finance.

DLA Piper advised Podravka, a Croatian public company and one of Southeast Europe’s largest food producers, on a EUR50 million funding provided by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).

The transaction was structured as an equity investment linked to Podravka’s acquisition of the agricultural business of the Fortenova Group – one of the most significant agribusiness deals in the region in recent years.

The acquisition was executed through a special purpose vehicle (SPV), with EBRD acquiring a stake subject to complex call and put option arrangements. In parallel, our team supported the buyer on antitrust filings across more than 10 jurisdictions, reflecting the deal’s scale and complexity. 

Marcell M. Németh, Partner, Vienna, commented: “This recognition reflects the strength of our cross-border collaboration and the trust placed in us by Podravka and the EBRD. It was a privilege to support such a transformative transaction in the region. I would also like to thank the entire team for their outstanding work, dedication and seamless collaboration throughout this complex deal.”

The transaction represents a major milestone for Podravka, strengthening its position in the Southeast European food and agricultural sector.

For DLA Piper, the deal reinforces our reputation as a leading adviser on complex, cross-border transactions in Central and Eastern Europe, particularly those involving international financial institutions.

This award is a testament to the quality and significance of this outstanding deal.

To learn more about our work in cross-border Banking & Finance deals, or to connect with the team, please reach out to Marcell M. Németh.

Congratulations to everyone involved in delivering this award-winning transaction.