AI Magazine August 2017

www.acquisition-intl.com • August 2017

Changing Healthcare for the Better Most Prominent Women in Business 2017 award winner Kelly Simpson-Angelini of Simpson Healthcare, is profiled here by the firm’s Marketing Analyst, Danielle Gallagher.

+

Julius & Creasy - Anna Grigorieva & Co LLC - Svalner - Tremondi s.r.o.

- AND Legal Office - OPTIM-AL Ltd - Leroy şi Asociaţii - NCR - Yuasa and Hara - FL&A Advogados - S. K. Singhi & Co Advocates - TSF Consultants - Kollmann, Wolm Rechtsanwalte - TUNJI BRAITHWAITE & CO. - Archina Design - RAH Consultancy - Oscós Abogados - Shook, Hardy & Bacon - Phoenix The Creative Studio - T. P. Ostwal & Associates LLP - 2B Limitless - Ross Estate Agencies - Intelligent Advertising Company - St. Teresa’s Youth Group - Cultural Communications - Sebastian Rubera & Associates Pty Ltd

No information contained on or in this website constitutes investment advice or an offer to invest or to provide management services and is subject to correction, completion and amendment without notice. Neither AI nor any of its associated entities are authorised to give financial advice of any nature nor are they regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

Prior to making any investment, AI recommends that any prospective investor should consult with its own investment, accounting, legal and tax advisers to evaluate independently the risks, consequences and suitability of that investment.

AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them.

The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions.

Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility.

How to get in touch AI welcomes news and views from its readers.

Editor’s Comment Welcome to this bumper edition of Acquisition Intl, providing you with the latest developments in the world of corporate finance.

In this edition, we learn more about how Simpson Healthcare challenges key stakeholders in the healthcare industry to think disruptively about scientific breakthroughs and discoveries, beyond next year and into the next decade, to pioneer the future of healthcare.

On 2nd August, the ALDO Group Inc., a world-leading creator and operator of desirable accessory and footwear brands announced that it has entered into an agreement early this month to acquire Camuto Group’s footwear and accessories.

Elsewhere in this issue, we discover more about multi-award winning professional coaching and training organisation, 2b Limitless from founder, Michael ‘Mick’ Todd.

I hope you truly enjoy reading this insightful edition.

Jessica Daykin, Editor jessica.daykin@ai-globalmedia.com

Inside...

READ THIS MONTH’S CPD ACCREDITED ISSUE TO GAIN 6 CPD POINTS

NEWS 4 Changing Healthcare for the Better 6 Simpson Healthcare Freedom in Expression 10 Backbone Technology

Correspondence should be sent to; Address: Acquisition International, First Floor Suite F, The Maltsters, 1-2 Wetmore Road, Burton on Trent, Staffordshire, DE14 1LS. Phone: +44 (0) 1283 712447 Email: reception@acquisition-intl.com Website: www.acquisition-intl.com

Strategic Performance Coaching 12 Strategic Performance Coaching

Find us on...

No More Gutter Cleaning 18 GutterDome, Inc.

A Highly Seasoned Solution Provider 14 Technology Associates Get to Know the BSP Rewards Partner Program 16 Ominto, Inc.

Expert Witness 20 RSW Medicolegal Ltd Boutique Law Firm Committed to Delivering High Quality Advice 22 AG ADVOCATES Best Islamic Banking Service Provider - Syria 24 Syria International Islamic Ban Leading Adviser 2017 Awards: Leading Tax Adviser of the Year - Sweden 26 Svalner

2 Acquisition International - August 2017

Totally Captivating 28 Captiv8 Creative Events Let Justice Roll 30 Cochran Firm South Florida LLP Keep Mother Nature Green 32 OPTIM-AL Ltd A True Leader in the Market 34 Leroy şi Asociaţii A Wide Range of Legal Experience 36 Yuasa and Hara Integrity, Dedication and Ambition 38 De Micco & Friends - Lawyers & Auditors Making Investment Magic in the Mid-Market 40 a2e Industries Limited The Perfect Transaction 42 Europlaw Group Incorporated A World Leader in Consumer Transaction Technologies 44 NCR Corporation Raise the Bar 46 Tunji Braithwaite & Co Unique, Outstanding and Memorable 48 Archina Design Ltd.

Contents

6 16 20

Achieving Legal Excellence 50 Shook, Hardy & Bacon L.L.P. High-Calibre Legal Advice 52 Walker Morris LLP Innovative Tax and Regulatory Solutions 54 T.P. Ostwal & Associates LLP London Calling 56 Bruton of Sloane Street Delivering Excellence in Performance 58 2b Limitless FZC Remaining Competitive and Profitable 62 MoneySoft, Inc. Set the Wheels in Motion 64 Tuskerdirect Ltd. Striving for Perfection 66 SARC Associates Excellent Track Record in Greek Real Estate Law 67 Valmas & Associates One of the Oldest Civil Law Firms in Sri Lanka 68 Julius & Creasy

22

World Recognized Intellectual Property Group 69 Ehrlich Group Most Trusted DB Pension Provider 2017 70 TPT Retirement Solutions Best Pre-Owned Analytical Equipment Supplier – North America 71 Spectra Lab Scientific Inc. AI’s 2017 European Excellence 72 Tremondi S.R.O The Role of the Modern Estate Agency 73 P2M Group All from One Source 74 Kanzlei Dr. Alejandra Navarro de Chalupa A Trusted Hub for Public Finance Data 75 BudgIT A Long and Strong Presence 76 Fernanda Lopes e Advogados Associados Consultancy with Personality in Budapest 77 Exuberant Group

91

The Best Possible Defence 79 Kollmann, Wolm Rechtsanwälte Delivering High-Quality Results 80 Oscós Abogados The Addictive Habit of Winning 81 Phoenix The Creative Studio Support and Guidance Every Step of the Way 82 Ross Estate Agencies The Art of Driving Consumer Action 83 Intelligent Advertising Company A Mass of Activities 84 St. Teresa’s Youth Group M&A in Healthcare 86 Bureau van Dijk WINNERS’ DIRECTORY 89 EXCELLENCE AWARDS 91-125

Assessing Mental Capacity 78 TSF Consultants

Acquisition International - August 2017 3

News: from around the world

Barings Provides Financing for Battery Ventures’ Add-on Acquisition of Rotronic AG Barings, a leading global financial services firm with $288 billion in assets under management, announced on Aug 02 that it acted as mandated lead arranger of a senior secured, multi-currency credit facility to support Battery Ventures’ continued buildout of its process-measurement platform through its acquisition of Rotronic AG.

Rotronic, based in Switzerland, is a global leader in the development and manufacture of humidityand temperature-measurement and monitoring solutions used in manufacturing and other industrial processes. The firm joins Battery’s process sensing technologies platform, which also includes Michell Instruments Group and Analytical Industries Inc. “Battery Ventures appreciates the continued support of Barings’ global private finance group on the addition of Rotronic to the Process Sensing Technologies platform,” said Jesse Feldman, general partner at Battery Ventures. “Barings’ ability to lend into multiple jurisdictions and in multiple currencies, along with their ability to execute within a very tight timeframe, proved critical to closing the acquisition and providing a scalable financing solution that met the needs of both battery ventures and process sensing technologies.”

4 Acquisition International - August 2017

“Barings looks forward to continuing to support Battery Ventures as it expands its process sensing technologies platform through organic growth and additional investments,” said Max McEwen, managing director for Barings’ global private finance team. “We consider the platform’s growth prospects quite compelling due to the complementary nature of Rotronic’s capabilities visà-vis Michell and Analytical Industries, the strength of the Rotronic brand and the access it provides to new end markets, including pharmaceuticals and food manufacturing.”

With over 650 investment professionals, including more than 70 dedicated solely to private finance, Barings leverages its global presence and local expertise to source private credit investments in developed markets worldwide. This global sourcing network, coupled with a diverse portfolio of platform companies, provides Barings with ongoing opportunities to finance middle market transactions including new platform investments, add-on acquisitions and recapitalisations across the U.S., Europe and Asia. www.barings.com

NEWS / From Around The World

News: from around the world

The ALDO Group to Acquire Camuto Group The ALDO Group Inc., a world-leading creator and operator of desirable footwear and accessory brands, announced on Aug 02, that it has entered an agreement early this month to acquire Camuto Group’s footwear and accessories businesses.

The Camuto family will continue to own and operate the apparel businesses. Camuto Group is known for its ability to design, develop and distribute lifestyle brands and is well-established as a leader in the North American market.

As part of the ALDO Group’s continued expansion, this acquisition will significantly increase both companies’ capabilities and reach, and enhance their ability to offer the widest selection of footwear, handbags, and accessories through all channels, including owned stores, franchise, online and wholesale.

David Bensadoun, the ALDO Group’s chief executive officer, said “We’re thrilled to have found a partner that has the skills and infrastructure required to support our vision. Both of our companies are heavily product oriented, and they each evolved in different ways. While the ALDO Group comes from retail and has focused on international expansion, Camuto Group is an expert in wholesale and a powerful player in the US market. We are very excited about the ways the two organisations can help each other grow, leveraging each other’s strengths.”

Based in Greenwich, Connecticut, Camuto Group is a privately-owned leading organisation, founded by fashion industry icon Vince Camuto. “A huge part of our attraction to the Camuto Group is an understanding of their amazing design skills, excellent distribution network, and sourcing capabilities. We also believe the ALDO Group’s broad international and cross-channel experience will unlock Camuto Group’s global potential. This is the perfect combination to drive long-term, sustainable growth and strengthen our overall platform” continued Bensadoun.

Alex Del Cielo, Louise Camuto, and the executive team have led the company through a period of steady growth. Del Cielo will remain in his role as chief executive officer of Camuto Group and will report to the ALDO Group’s executive officer. “ We are excited to become a part of the ALDO Group family”, stated Del Cielo. “After our first meeting,

I immediately felt the synergy between the two organisations. Camuto Group and the ALDO Group share the same ethics, values and approach to business. We are strongly committed to our people, our partners, our customers and our product. We look forward to serving the global consumer as a unified team and continuing to grow together.”

The ALDO Group will preserve Camuto’s autonomy, each brand’s identity as well as retaining key talent, ensuring for a smooth transition.

“After spending time with Alex Del Cielo and his leadership team, we quickly recognised that we share similar values and strategic vision. This is a perfect fit. One family business is acquiring another family business and from the very first meetings, we could feel a very similar culture,” mentioned Bensadoun.

For more information, visit www.camutogroup.com

Empiric to Acquire Student Accommodation Scheme in Liverpool The board of Empiric Student Property plc, the owner and operator of premium student accommodation across the UK, recently announced that the group has exchanged contracts to acquire the freehold of the Hahnemann Building in Liverpool for £10.8 million (excluding costs). The acquisition is expected to complete in October 2017.

The Hahnemann Building is a Grade II listed building within an established student area in Liverpool. The property was originally Liverpool Hahnemann Hospital and has been converted into a high specification student accommodation scheme comprising 98 studios, with communal space.

The property is on Hope Street, which connects Liverpool’s two iconic landmark cathedrals, situated in a World Heritage Site Buffer Zone, close to the city centre and within easy reach of the main railway station, Liverpool Lime Street.

The Hahnemann Building is adjacent to John Moores University and is ten minutes’ walk from the central academic facilities of the University of Liverpool.

The scheme was completed for the 2016/17 academic year and was fully let under the management of CRM. Lettings are progressing well for the 2017/18 academic year and Hello Student® will take over the management of the accommodation from completion, marketing it alongside the group’s six other Liverpool assets, which are near and serve the University of Liverpool. Liverpool has the 8th largest student population outside of London with over 46,000 full-time higher education students in 2015/16 (latest available HESA data).

Paul Hadaway, chief executive of Empiric Student Property plc, commented: “The Hahnemann Building is our seventh acquisition in Liverpool, expanding the group’s presence in the city to 480 beds, serving 1% of Liverpool’s vibrant student population. The University of Liverpool attracts 32% of its fulltime students from international backgrounds and has experienced strong international and postgraduate growth in recent years. This acquisition is in line with Empiric’s investment criteria and returns profile.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 5

1706AI18

Company: Simpson Healthcare Name: Danielle Gallagher Marketing Analyst Email: kelly@ simpsonhealthcare.com Web: www.simpsonhealthcare.com Address: 230 Shore Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371 Phone: +1 860 598 9812

Changing Healthcare for the Better Simpson Healthcare challenges key stakeholders in the healthcare industry to think disruptively about scientific breakthroughs and discovery, beyond next year and into the next decade, to pioneer the future of healthcare. Most Prominent Women in Business 2017 award winner Kelly Simpson-Angelini is profiled here by the firm’s Marketing Analyst, Danielle Gallagher. s a leading global innovator, Simpson Healthcare is working on some of the biggest blockbuster brands in many leading therapeutic spaces and activates insights in whole disease categories that are ripe for disruption. Their transformative vision for the healthcare experience accelerates scientific advancements as they unite at the edge of breakthrough innovation to catalyse change for their clients. They help their clients unlock their full potential to positively impact the patients that will benefit most from their therapies.

A

“Our purpose is why we exist in the world and guides us every moment. Our purpose is to support our clients to share the scientific story of the diseases they touch and therapies they discover for all in need.”

The firm’s Marketing Analyst, Danielle Gallagher is keen to impart her thoughts on the firm winning the Most Prominent Women in Business 2017 award for Kelly Simpson-Angelini.

“Our founder, Kelly Simpson-Angelini is honoured to have won ‘Most Prominent Women in Business 2017.’ Looking to the past, this award honours all her time, passion, and accomplishments that have changed healthcare for the better. She began her career as a Research Scientist at Pfizer before becoming immersed in the world of scientific communications, and founding Simpson Healthcare Executives during the next 20 years. When she looks to the future, our leader understands that our beliefs, decisions, ideas, policies and ability to implement, all matter in terms of transforming the healthcare experience for patients into the next couple decades.

“Kelly believes that we live in a world where women excel and innovate as entrepreneurs and decisionmakers in leading organisations across industries, where our ideas and values are changing the way that people think about our future, where our voices are challenging expectations, and where our

6 Acquisition International - August 2017

actions are driving forward a vast array of societal improvements in our nation and in our world for ourselves and for the generations of tomorrow.

“For her to lead such a successful and innovative scientific agency for over 20 years, and to be named ‘Most Prominent Women in Business 2017’, serves as an inspiration today that women are leading catalysts of innovation within game-changing organisations. Our founder is so proud to stand united with the disruptive, scientific agency that she has created as a leader, mentor, and coach, as we work to transform healthcare and improve the world in which we live for our future generations.”

Kelly Simpson-Angelini’s passion for greatness in healthcare - and her desire to be the change that she wants to see in the world - carries into every aspect of her as a person as she activates leadership teams and brings people together from across the industry to transform healthcare and lead the industry into the future. Danielle provides us with some background about the firm’s transformative leader, Kelly Simpson-Angelini.

“In 2016, our founder was designated as a Women of Innovation Honouree by the Connecticut Technology Council for her entrepreneurial vision and leadership. Most recently, in the spring of 2017, Kelly Simpson-Angelini was honoured in New York City as a Healthcare Transformers- Top 10 Innovation Catalyst by Medical Marketing and Media (MM&M), the media agency of record for our industry for the past 50 years. She committed to her organisations purpose, to develop the scientific stories of therapeutic brands, in collaboration with our clients and to sharing those stories with key influencers and stakeholders in the industry using a broad array of communications platforms and channels.

“As the founder of Simpson Healthcare and leading innovation catalyst, our transformative leader, Kelly Simpson-Angelini, has honed and activated her ability to pull through her own experiences and use her powerful story to reach and inspire others to take action to improve themselves and the world at large. Her wisdom and knowledge of the application of disruptive innovation in our industry through her decades of deep, immersive scientific communications experience in an extensive array

Changing Healthcare for the Better

Acquisition International - August 2017 7

of healthcare, leadership, and business topics, when shared with the right key stakeholders, have changed the way that leaders in our industry think and make decisions about the future of healthcare.”

Kelly’s story has touched the lives of others from internal members of our agency to an expansive global network of business leaders, industry executives, scientists, medical experts, and patients worldwide. Danielle then tells us about Kelly’s passion for what she does and the extent to which she is a celebrated thought leader who wants to deliver the healthcare experience possible for patients.

“Her ability to harness her ideas and share her profound experiences; encompassing the challenges that she has faced in her journey to understand the wide array of whole disease categories in this world that are ripe for disruption, and the therapies that she has touched and developed with her clients is an impressive testament to the perseverance and passion for healthcare that is inherently rooted in her core internal belief system.

“Her purpose has always been to deliver the best and most positive healthcare experience for patients, which has led her to catalyse great innovations for her clients, particularly in disease spaces primarily affecting children, where the medical need is very high indeed.

“Kelly is a celebrated thought leader, strategic chief, engaging storyteller, experienced mentor and transformative coach at Simpson Healthcare and values the importance of developing and discovering the talents of her team and understanding what drives them forward to be their best self in life. She strives to bring out the best in her people and in her audiences, as we stand on the edge of disruptive innovation, with the goal being to transform healthcare.”

Simpson Healthcare Executives is a diverse scientific learning organisation that was founded

by Kelly Simpson-Angelini in 1998. As a global leader in biopharmaceutical communications and consulting, Simpson Healthcare prioritises the patient experience and is dedicated to driving therapeutic innovations forward for their clients.

Several years ago, they revisited their mission and vision and transformed it into a purpose statement.

Danielle reveals the firm’s purpose, what they do in delivering patient-centred, value-based healthcare and how they collaborate internally to drive disruptively innovative solutions that challenge current expectations in the industry.

“Our purpose is why we exist in the world and guides us every moment. Our purpose is to support our clients to share the scientific story of the diseases they touch and therapies they discover for all in need. We believe in our work and in the global reach that we can have for our industry partners as we engage scientific, healthcare, and biopharmaceutical teams in meaningful and disruptive conversation.

“We support our clients in their scientific communications through a multitude of marketing and interactive communications channels that are specifically tailored to achieve each of our clients’ strategic goals. Our clients include Big Pharma, as well as smaller pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, some of which have smaller and more targeted portfolios of products. As do our clients, Simpson Healthcare prioritises the patient experience, and we believe in delivering patient-centred, valuebased healthcare. We believe that it is essential to think disruptively to understand and discover what patients may be expecting and experiencing as they receive care and undergo treatment.

“Our goal is to create more positive healthcare experiences, so that patients can feel better and have brighter health outlooks. It is our privilege to work with our prestigious clients as we understand

and develop the scientific story that our client needs to tell. We ensure that we have the right members on our teams and we think disruptively about the delivery of our story to our audience, which means that we pull through the experience of our organisation with previous similar challenges. We believe that everyone on our team should know the client’s goals and how our story will support it.

“Internally, we collaborate to drive disruptively innovative solutions that challenge current expectations in our industry using a wide array of lenses and perspectives as we bring to bear the larger context of healthcare. Our organisation has a wide depth of experience in a diverse, broad array of therapeutic areas, including oncology, respiratory, severe asthma, rare disease, infectious disease, cardiovascular, stroke, gastrointestinal, and many more. Our internal therapeutic fluency is systemically high and well-maintained, as we pull through the experience of our members, and what it means to be a prominent learning organisation in healthcare communications to catalyse transformation in our industry for our clients.”

One of the most ground-breaking, expansive healthcare knowledge ventures that Kelly SimpsonAngelini has pioneered is the development of is the new line of FUTURING work that the firm has implemented with many of their big pharma clients.

This service offering was designed and launched through the collaborations of their experienced medical team and under Kelly’s strategic guidance, and has been implemented with the purpose and intent of catalysing disruptive transformation in the healthcare industry into the next decade. Danielle goes on to develop this interesting point in further detail, adding how Kelly Simpson-Angelini has designed is a dynamic, transformational leadership team of senior members.

“The value in looking ahead and ‘FUTURING’, cannot be overstated as it allows space for conversation among key stakeholders about potential ‘FUTURE STATES’ that takes us beyond current assumptions that we may have. During this process, we envision potential ‘BEST and WORST FUTURES’, without any reference to the present day. We imagine what could be, without current constraints. The value is in the perspective generated from the exercise, which creates a different conversation around decisions that we must make in the present day.

“Once the FUTURES have been imagined, the drivers to reach those FUTURES are identified, which helps to identify opportunities to shape a DESIRED FUTURE’ or avoid an impact from an UNDESIRABLE FUTURE’. Throughout, we gather and analyse global datasets, policies, practices, and other influential variables that could influence or disrupt key markets in healthcare across a longer 10-20-year vision for the FUTURE. These inventories are a starting point for change based on the identified opportunities from this process.

“As such, the leadership team that Kelly SimpsonAngelini has designed is a dynamic, transformational leadership team of senior members who are patient-centred, dynamic and highly collaborative, elite group of business and scientific members who have a high level of therapeutic fluency and are well-

8 Acquisition International - August 2017

Changing Healthcare for the Better

networked internally with our people, and externally with our clients and key industry stakeholders. They believe in the culture of learning, innovation, and science that they have created with the disruptive leadership of Kelly Simpson-Angelini that is centred around the patient and around creating the most positive healthcare experiences possible.

Kelly’s commitment to her organisation extends to her dedication to the firm’s internal culture and their relationship with each of their clients. As such, they aim to provide an exceptional client service experience by providing strategic insights as well as on-time, on-budget programme experiences in all their projects.

“At Simpson Healthcare, we embrace our core values: maintain passion about making a difference by pushing the boundaries to deliver unique, strategic value for our company, our clients, and our community, keep it real by developing strong, authentic relationships internally and externally with our clients.

“At Simpson Healthcare, our leadership team is highly approachable, strategically-minded, and forward-looking group of people who believe in the philosophy of: ‘If we take care of our employees, they will take care of their clients.’ Our senior leaders are always coaching and mentoring their teams, as we expand our therapeutic fluency and research, design, and create to make brands and experiences come to life for our clients. “

Danielle concludes by underlining the core values the firm embraces and what their vision is for the future.

“We look to the future by never losing sight of the larger context and bigger opportunity; know we are better together and dedicated to collaborative teamwork to ensure the highest quality work product; and finally, we bring our best selves to work every day, which means we are committed to achieving personal balance and strength, both at work, and in our own lives.”

We Believe in Our People It’s those moments when you look at everyone around you and see how we are all here for each other, you can’t help but take a step back and think, “Wow. I love working here.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 9

1705AI65

Freedom in Expression Backbone is a digital web agency that specialises in developing dynamic and interactive websites and web-based applications. Having recently been given the Leading Web Design Consultant, Canada accolade, we invited them to tell us about their role as experts in digital strategy, worldclass web development and design as well as producing effective content and managing cutting-edge social media campaigns. We invited the firm’s President and CEO, Marc Charalambous to tell us more.

Company: Marc Charalambous, President and CEO Name: Backbone Technology Email: marcus@ backbonetechnology.com Web: www.backbonetechnology.com Address: 55 East 7th Avenue, Vancouver BC Phone: +1 604 713 8560

ackbone is a digital web agency, that specialises in developing dynamic and interactive websites and webbased applications. We are experts in digital strategy, world-class web development and design, as well as producing effective content and managing cutting-edge social media campaigns.

B

Backbone also develops, sells, implements and supports a custom CMS/WMS/eCommerce Development Platform as a service to all its customers called Expression. Expression (or XPR) is hosted and delivered as a SAAS model on top of Backbone’s Vancouver-based data centre called Backbone Data Vault, which also provides high density colocation services to digital organisations locally and around the globe, with specialisation in both the media and entertainment sectors.

On winning the Leading Web Design Consultant, Canada accolade, it feels great! At Backbone, we pride ourselves on delivering best-in-class web design to our clients. We become their true digital partner and liberate companies to do what they do best plus to excel in a quickly evolving digital world.

To be recognised externally for this work makes our whole team feel even more proud of their work and its value overall. It’s always great to be recognised.

For over 17 years, Backbone has been committed to building business digitally through a combination of great people and technology, accountability and sustainable web solutions that enable our customers to shine in the changing digital world.

We have been focused and worked hard to achieve what we have, so it means a great deal to me and the firm to be recognised.

My own role in the company is as President and CEO. Other than the obvious, I drive the strategy and technical architecture, planning, and consulting for client projects, as well as Backbone and Expression (our technology).

In terms of the firm’s specific areas of expertise and what we can offer to potential future clients, I would say that we build business digitally here. When a company isn’t digital, it is essential for them to have a partner that is. Technology evolves quickly, and if a potential client’s business is not tech-centric, it’s hard to keep up. That’s where a digital partner comes in. Some partners have the tech, but not the creative. Others can do brand strategy or become your marketing partner. At Backbone, we do it all and more.

In our world, creativity and technology are on the same spectrum. We balance them perfectly to transform our client’s online presence into real-

10 Acquisition International - August 2017

world dominance. When left, brain meets right, technology meets creative, business starts to build.

We achieve this through our proprietary software, Expression. Expression is a cloud based, scalable, fully customisable web development framework that seamlessly combines content management and e-commerce out-of-the-box. It features a modular architecture, a rich set of powerful APIs, a unified handlebars-based render stack, code versioning, real-time debugging tools and is fully extensible using native Server Side JavaScript (SSJS).

On the important behind the scenes work that advisors here carry out; I believe that crafting the vision of a project through the technical and business strategy is important. Leading and mentoring the team through the process will achieve the desired outcomes – and will drive business and market growth plus a competitive advantage for our clients. The result is long-term relationships in place and being the ‘go-to’ team for our clients - because they love working with us - and we drive ROI with hard results.

On the extent to which advisers today contribute to a company’s success, I would say that they do very heavily. Most companies do not have the internal ability to deliver results in these areas. You can’t fake or compete with the experience and expertise - that focused and specialised experts bring to the enterprise - and choosing the right partners in these areas can make or break a company.

All too often, internal resources are simply unable to act as effectively as experts. Knowing when this is the case, hiring outside with real accountability (not always available internally), is critical to the success of many organisations.

On the clients, there are those that will either become real digital organisations or die. It’s not enough to be the best at what you do anymore.

That alone, not having a long term sustainable digital strategy, is almost certain death. Younger companies that do digital right have a real chance to disrupt leaders with decades behind them.

Helping those companies transition and partner in digital is what we do best, and we target companies that are open and see the value in that change.

Looking to the future, I would like to underline that continued differentiation in technology offerings and bespoke workflows/approach that Backbone offers to the market are important. The future I believe is a decisive launch of our Expression Saas web development platform to the market, as well as transitioning into a more technical support role for web/design/ad agencies, that want to excel in digital.

Freedom in Expression

Acquisition International - August 2017 11

IW170025

Strategic Performance Coaching Jacqueline Day has a wealth of experience working with companies at board level and with senior teams. An expert at strategic planning, Jacqueline has coached a variety of leaders and managers. She recently received two prestigious awards, the Best Woman-Owned Performance Coaching Company - East Midlands and Personal Development Expert of the Year 2017 – UK. We interviewed her to find out more about her business, which she set up in 2008.

Company: Strategic Performance Coaching Name: Jacqueline Day Email: Jacqueline@Strategic PerformanceCoaching.com Web: www.strategic PerformanceCoaching.com Phone: +44 (0)7962 531 099

s an expert in strategic performance coaching, Jacqueline Day inspires, empowers and transforms businesses, teams and individuals to maximise their potential. It really is a transformational process that she takes people through, she tells us, when she works with them. Jacqueline reveals more about what she offers and who she works with in her own words.

A

“Using a combination of my coaching skills and neuro linguistic programming (NLP) skills, really allows me to make transformations that my clients previously never thought was possible.

My skills can be used with any business or client.

I have worked with CEO’s, directors, teams, individuals and business owners. I will work on a company vision and ethos, as well as the bespoke business strategies to enable them to achieve their desired outcomes and goals. This is a journey, which together we will map out, while working on all options and ensuring the decision-making processes are in alignment with the values and ethos of the business or company.

“Many times, I find when working with people, that there are underlying confidence issues which are holding them back. For instance, a business owner came to me as they wanted business confidence and to put a stop to procrastination and self- sabotage. This is where my NLP skills really do make those transformations. After a couple of sessions with me, these issues had disappeared and they were then ready to really go forward with their business. NLP really is the study of excellence. Unhelpful behaviour patterns can be changed elegantly, effectively and professionally.

Jacqueline then offers her thoughts on the coaching profession and how she perceives it.

“The coaching profession is a great career for women if they have had the right training and are passionate about the coaching profession and how they can help others achieve. I am a master coach and master practitioner of NLP. For my NLP, I trained with the co-creator Richard Bandler. In this respect, my advice would be, model the experts and ensure you are trained by the best.

12 Acquisition International - August 2017

“When business owners, chief executives, directors or individuals experience the coaching process, they realise the positive impact it will have on their goal achievement and will continue to use an experienced coach. Corporate, business and personal performance coaching are growing industries. The results have a far greater impact than training alone.”

Jacqueline then elaborates on her previous experience, how this has helped her today and how this benefits her clients.

“With a background in business development and stakeholder engagement, I understood the importance of developing a rapport, really engaging and listening to the varying agendas so that we could work collaboratively in achieving goals together.

“This is very much a mindset. Competence gains confidence. So, I always looked at what I could do well, what works and made decisions for the right reasons. Believing and trusting in your self is important, so I made a plan and would visualise myself doing it.

“Everything I do is for the benefit and the desired outcome of my clients. I am always focused on their success, guiding, facilitating and supporting them so that they too can become the best they can be, maximising their potential to reach their goals. Being true to yourself and others is important in the coaching industry. Starting with yourself is important so that in turn you can give your best to your client.

Jacqueline then explains what it means to be a woman in business today, in her own words.

“Very often, women who are running their own business will come to me to ask me what it takes for a woman to succeed in business. Sometimes they may be starting out for the first time.

“I will often guide them through the maze of where they need to start and find a way that works for them. I am often asked how they can improve their resilience so that they do not become despondent

Strategic Performance Coaching

when a plan does not work out how they had hoped.

I help them to look at what they could do better, what their learnings have been as well as what they have achieved as there is sometimes a tendency for women not to celebrate their own achievements which is important. By acknowledging what you have done well will improve confidence while also going forward with new fresh perspectives.”

In closing, Jacqueline turns the conversation to what is on the horizon for her business as well as her own career goals.

“I love all aspects of my business, in terms of setting leadership skills, developing bespoke business strategies, team coaching, individual development, changing limiting beliefs, motivation. In all of these, I feel a sense of personal achievement when I see others grow through the work I do. Having said that, I find that whether I am working with a CEO, a business owner or an individual, helping them through their barriers is what gives me the greatest satisfaction, for I know then that the goals we set together will then be achievable for them. There will be nothing holding them back. Their confidence levels grow and they reach a personal satisfaction level, as well as a professional one. It really is a win-win situation and certainly a feel-good factor for them, as they aspire to be the best that they can be.

“Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is always important to me so that I can always be my best. There is so much to offer people and for that a coach must be the best that they can be.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 13

1705AI61

Company: Technology Associates Name: Kelvin Kirby Email: info@techassoc.com Web: www.techassoc.com Address: Technology House, Shottery Brook Office Park Timothy’s Bridge Road Stratford-upon-Avon Warks, CV37 9NR UK Phone: +44 (0) 1789 292 150

A Highly Seasoned Solution Provider Technology Associates has been helping small businesses take control of their IT since 1990. Hiring and developing exceptional employees is their key to solving challenging problems and implementing innovative solutions for their customers.

Microsoft Gold Competency Partner, Technology Associates have clearly demonstrated a “best-in-class” ability and commitment to meet Microsoft customers’ evolving needs in today’s dynamic business environment.

A

Technology Associates help organisations to make the most of Office 365, Azure and Microsoft Project (including the Microsoft Project & Portfolio Management Solution) through a defined process of Envisioning, Discovery, Planning, Configuration, Implementation, Training and Support. The company also designs and develops custom apps and integration solutions that allows businesses to utilise existing and legacy investments in other technologies and solutions. More recently the experience of the team has led them to help companies with their overall IT strategy planning and execution (especially with migration to cloud services), and is a rapidly growing area of business for the company.

The firm has been winning awards since the 1990s for consultancy services, innovation, training and support services. Through the turbulent years of a struggling economy Technology Associates has continued to demonstrate a robust uninterrupted service to its clients and has always remained ahead of the curve in terms of the support and project management services offered.

Following their success in winning the 2017 Business Elite Awards and the firm’s CEO Kelvin Kirby recently winning CEO of the Year – UK, we invited Kelvin to talk us through the firm’s work, his team and his position at the helm.

The value that Technology Associates brings to our clients comes from the experience, skills, passion and ethos of our employees. Our focus is on delivering real outcomes for our customers with measurable ROI and sustainable ongoing support.

We do this by • Listening carefully to our customers’ needs and requirements and discussing not only the short term goals but also the long terms objectives of their business. Our aim is to become a trusted adviser and to work in partnership with our customer to drive and execute on IT strategy • Planning any project carefully and ensuring minimal downtime for the business. Most of

14 Acquisition International - August 2017

•

our projects involve cloud migration today and planning is key to success. Fortunately project management is one of our key strengths and an area we specialise in!

Ensuring the best resources are appropriately matched to the projects and taking an almost obsessive approach on quality of service and in meeting delivery timelines.

Knowing that we’ve delivered innovative, awardwinning projects across a variety of industries for over 27 years, our customers can rest assured that we can deliver cost-effective solutions with the quality of support you would expect from a highly experienced solution provider.

Our Team By hiring and developing exceptional people, we can consistently solve some of the most challenging problems and implement some of the most innovative solutions for our customers. Our team possess in-depth practical knowledge of the latest technologies and tools. Having delivered some of the most innovative and award-winning projects, across a variety of industries, for nearly 3 decades, customers can be assured of our ability to deliver cost-effective solutions with the level of back-up and support you would expect from a highly experienced solution provider. This rare breadth of technical skills, combined with extensive business process experience, provides us with unrivalled insight into the business and technical challenges facing today’s organisations and the means to resolve them.

Our technical architects and developers possess indepth skills of the latest technologies balanced with a strong working knowledge of business processes enabling them to become productive quickly on projects of any size and complexity. Our programme and project managers provide exceptional delivery and team engagement skills enabling them to work effectively with our clients’ teams.

The breadth of experience of our consultants and analysts helps our clients deliver business aligned strategies for the effective application of information technology. Indeed, our on-going investment in training and development with clear objectives for each member of our team, ensure the skills are kept up to date, and each member continues to develop in a professional capacity.

A Highly Seasoned Solution Provider

The perspective of a CEO I am proud to have led Technology Associates in the deployment of Microsoft services and technology including pre-sales advice, consultancy, implementation, development, training, and after sales support for 27 years. Together with an exceptional team of people, Technology Associates retains its position as one of the leading Microsoft Solution Providers in EMEA that specialises in cloud services and Project and Portfolio Management.

We continue to service customers primarily in SMB, but also in the Enterprise sector and pride ourselves on delivering exceptional value for money, high quality outcomes. I am so proud of the company’s achievements which are a testament to the team and a reflection of the ethos of this business.

AI are excited to see what the future holds for this dynamic, cutting-edge company and await future announcements.

Acquisition International - August 2017 15

1708AI04

Company: Ominto, Inc. Name: Michael Hansen Founder, Chief Executive Officer and Director Email: investors@ominto.com Web: inc.ominto.com Address: 1515 S. Federal Highway - Suite 307, Boca Raton, Florida 33432, USA Phone: +1 561 362 2393

Get to Know the BSP Rewards Partner Program

A meaningful loyalty program with a high ROI Rewards programs are a productive channel for acquiring new customers but, more so, for fostering greater loyalty from existing customers. Since their inception in the 1930s, rewards programs have continued to gain in popularity and are used in a variety of industries with a multitude of incentives and redemption options. oday, there are a wide variety of loyalty programs available. At their core, all loyalty and rewards programs are all designed to serve the same purpose: help increase customer lifetime value. The vast majority of loyalty programs are point-based, that allow users to redeem for free merchandise or exclusive products and services. The airline industry relies heavily on their frequent flier programs to build loyalty and engagement. Most programs reward consumers for achieving a predetermined goal rather than for real-time actions transactions. Consumers today are flooded with offers to join every program under the sun, most of which are irrelevant to their lives. The good news is, despite the recent history of companies spamming consumers to join their loyalty programs, there is a set of meaningful programs that all consumer can, and do, find personal value from.

T

On average, it costs a company 5-10 times more to acquire a new customer than to sell to an existing member of their database. Also, leads that are properly nurtured throughout the sales funnel will spend approximately 50% more than non-nurtured leads, while existing customers tend to spend almost 70% more than those newly acquired.

What is the recipe for success in identifying and integrating an effective rewards program into the marketing mix without investing a fortune, and that can also produce high ROI? The BSP Rewards Partner Program has been designed for businesses and non-profits who want to provide distinctive added value to their clients and supporters. BSP Rewards is a sister company to DubLi.com, the world’s most comprehensive Cash Back shopping website, both owned by Ominto, Inc. (Nasdaq: OMNT). BSP Rewards use the same technology foundation as DubLi.com to provide a state-of-the-art global Cash Back shopping experience to businesses and non-profits around the world, by either creating a new or layering on to those organizations existing loyalty programs.

The technology of the global Cash Back site allows small businesses to have loyalty programs like Fortune 500s, but at a fraction of the cost.

BSP Rewards supports more than 1,800 corporate and non-profit co-branded Partner Programs in over 60 countries, with customers in 100 countries around the world. It serves all market sectors and industries from banks to telco companies, sports teams to philanthropic organizations. BSP Rewards creates new funding avenues for non-profit organizations in which they can enter a cause-related marketing alliance, instead of hoping to become a beneficiary of someone else’s campaign. BSP Rewards is offered to non-profit organizations for free and there are no costs associated with operating the programs, only the rewards of doing so as BSP Rewards offers a generous 30% commission on all sales that are driven through the shopping website. Because it is a digital loyalty solution, the organization is not required to hire staff or dedicate resources to operating or managing it. It essentially runs itself.

16 Acquisition International - August 2017

Get to Know the BSP Rewards Partner Program

The BSP Rewards Partner Program can be seamlessly integrated into an organization’s existing marketing strategy and comes with numerous benefits, including higher customer retention, higher customer engagement, increased customer lifetime value, increased revenue from existing customers and, last but not least, re-engagement of dormant customers. BSP Rewards is a cash-based program, which enjoys a higher perceived value than point- or mile-based rewards. Consumers purchase behavior is influenced by where they can earn loyalty rewards or program points. With over 12,000 brand name stores, BSP Rewards’ website rewards every transaction a consumer makes with Cash Back, making it the most relevant of all global loyalty programs.

One of the many advantages of BSP Rewards lies in its simplicity and modularity: the BSP shopping site empowers consumers to maximize savings by combining its other loyalty, membership or credit cards and on top of the coupons and Cash Back. Joining BSP Rewards is simple and free for customers of a Partner, providing a win-win situation for all participants with no obstacles.

Not only does the BSP Rewards shopping site encompass over a billion products, featured through over 30 categories, but it’s also always progressing with new features and functionality.

Customers of participating BSP Rewards Partners can join the newly-launched and enhanced VIP Lounge, a paid membership that offers access to hyper-discounted deals on everything from travel, shopping, and dining to leisure and entertainment with increased Cash Back rates. With this upgraded membership package, the company introduced DubLi Travel. DubLi Travel is a private label travel search engine, featuring worldwide hotels and listing one of the largest hotel inventories at more than 15,000 destinations. With discounts of up to 60% on hotel bookings, DubLi Travel is backed by leading travel industry hotel accommodation partners, priceline.com, Booking.com and agoda. com, who have a global presence in North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific region.

VIP Lounge members can save on air travel with 10% discounted flight vouchers on round-trip flights anywhere in the world.

Satisfied customers are the primary goal of any loyalty and rewards programs. Happy customers shop with a brand more, regardless of that brands products. Eventually, these happy customers become advocates and brand spokespeople sharing their likes and dislikes with their friends and family. In a world that is digitally connected, with people sharing their lives and their preferences through social media, an organization benefits from the referral marketing of one friend to telling another. BSP Rewards provides a favorable, rewarding vehicle for people to brag about their shopping experience and their earned Cash Back.

Furthermore, BSP Rewards offers a lucrative refer-a-friend program that provides an additional incentive and viral marketing tool for consumers of a Partner Program to market and share access.

By constantly innovating and researching, BSP Rewards is at the forefront of the loyalty incentive market that consumers, businesses and non-profits need, want and use. Combining savings, spending and exclusive opportunities, BSP Rewards knows how to satisfy the shoppers they receive from Partners. www.bsprewards.com Acquisition International - August 2017 17

1708AI11

No More Gutter Cleaning GutterDome, Inc. was founded in 2010 and provides their Dealer Network with industry-leading gutter protection systems. We interviewed President & Founder, Jeffrey N. McCoy, to learn more about the company’s offerings and seasoned industry experience.

Company: GutterDome, Inc. Name: Jeffrey N. McCoy Title: President & Founder Email: Jeffrey@GutterDome.com Web: www.GutterDome.com Address: 605 Lincoln Boulevard, Ste 230 Lincoln, CA 95648 Phone: +1 877 987 4888

utterDome’s executive management team has over 40 years of experience in a variety of disciplines, including manufacturing, marketing, finance, client retention and in-home sales. President & Founder, Jeffrey N. McCoy introduces the company to us and adds his thoughts on how he manages his staff, to cultivate an atmosphere that is conducive to a productive working environment.

G

“Our experience of over 40 years has contributed to the development of exceptional products and helped us earn the distinction of the #1 Rated Best Product for Value and Performance, that is available for professional installation in North America.

“GutterDome is the manufacturer of ‘Award Winning’ gutter protection systems, with a network of Dealers nationwide. Designed for professional installation the gutter guards we manufacture are among the finest on the market - thanks to their exceptional durability, low-maintenance design and the fact that they can be installed on nearly any home.

“In terms of managing my staff, we have an open-door policy that encourages two-way communication, constructive feedback and active participation in both the growth and strategic direction of the company.”

The gutter covers manufactured by GutterDome, offering unparalleled benefits, including: • Strong – made from 6063 extruded aluminium that has been tempered to T5; • Durable – coated with a clear, corrosionpreventing anodising finish; • Efficient – uses surgical-grade stainless steel mesh - that allows large amounts of water to flow through rain gutter system and a slight dome shape - to shed debris from on top; • Versatile – gutter guards are offered in several sizes and styles - to ensure we will have a product that will work for virtually any home and; • Protected – every gutter guard covered by an ironclad transferrable 30-Year Lifetime Limited Warranty. This is the longest standing warranty in the industry.

Additionally, the company currently has three patents, each for a detritus exclusion appliance that is preferably constructed of extruded aluminium and comprises of a screen made surgical grade of stainless steel mesh wire, that prevents debris from entering rain gutters.

• GutterDome - United States Patent – 8,495,837 B2 – July 30th 2013.

• GutterDome - United States Patent – 8,677,695 B2 – March 25th 2014.

• GutterDome - United States Patent – 8,756,868 B2 – June 24th 2014.

Additionally, GutterDome’s complete line of gutter guards help to save homeowners time and protect them from injury, Jeffrey tells us. He also reveals the company’s approach when undertaking a new client or project.

“Each year, more than 500,000 people are treated for ladder-related injuries, in America alone. Our gutter protection systems remove the risk that comes with balancing precariously on a ladder and cleaning gutters by hand. In fact, GutterDome products eliminate gutter cleaning permanently.”

“When undertaking a new assignment, we keep all business decisions focused on enhancing the consumer (end-user) experience with our products,

18 Acquisition International - August 2017

No More Gutter Cleaning

plus ensuring that we actively listen to comments and constructive feedback from the valued Dealer Network.”

and modernisation, ensures that the company continues to progress and does not become static or fall behind the competition.”

Jeffrey then offers further thoughts on the company’s work and the wider industry issues that impact them.

Jeffrey then underlines the challenges and opportunities he has faced when working at the company he founded, GutterDome.

“GutterDome is a permanent solution to an annual problem. Each year, countless hours are spent cleaning clogged and debris filled rain gutters. This is a time consuming and dangerous task which is eliminated by installing our industry leading gutter guards. The company’s cutting-edge siphoning technology and innovatively designed gutter guards, prevent clogged rain gutters and eliminates gutter cleaning for all-time.

“Being recognised and independently reviewed, by a leading consumer report testing organisation as the #1 Rated Best Product for Value and Performance that is available in North America for professional installation, has allowed GutterDome products to soar above competitors and be highly sought after since the company’s founding in 2010.

“Many designated market areas (DMAs) recently, such as the Pacific Northwest region, have demonstrated great promise for being territories with homeowners exhibiting a growing need for gutter protection products.

“Continuously evolving as a company, to offer our Dealer Network and homeowners with the most cutting-edge technology in the market, is vital to the growth and success of GutterDome. Additionally, striving to be the industry leader in innovation

“Additionally, such recognition has given GutterDome, Inc. the opportunity to launch service offices and offer our ‘Award Winning’ gutter protection system to all the homeowners in the Seattle, Portland and Dallas – Fort Worth markets.

Finally, Jeffrey reveals his future aspirations regarding the business and how they can stay ahead of any emerging developments.

“In the future, GutterDome will continue to be the most innovative and forward-thinking company in the industry, by expanding our current product mix

with the development of a value driven and ecofriendly gutter guard. This new product will continue to leverage our strategic industry partnerships and allow us to offer the most comprehensive line of rain gutter protection systems in North America today.

“The Pacific Northwest is a rapidly expanding market for gutter guards, based on the area demographics, dense tree canopies and annual rainfall for the entire region. We are very excited for the remainder of 2017 and beyond, as we significantly expand our Dealer Network in the following states: Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin.

“To stay ahead of any emerging opportunities, it’s essential to have a passionate thirst for knowledge, by constantly looking to grow and learn something new each day. This allows me to stay on top of an ever-changing business environment and to be on the cutting edge of industry developments.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 19

1708AI02

RSW Medicolegal Ltd

Expert Witness Richard Scott-Watson started working as an expert witness in Orthopaedic Trauma case in 1990. Due to the nature of the system, most of his requests come from claimant solicitors but Richard also does joint and defendant instructions. We asked Richard to explain what type of work he deals in.

iscussing the volume of work he deals with, Richard outlines how he keeps his business thriving and attracts clients. He also points out some of the weaknesses in the legal sector, particularly regarding small claims, which he believes needs more stringent checks.

D

Company: RSW Medicolegal Ltd Contact: Carol Couzens (secretary) Email: CarolCouzens@ymail.com Address: 7a Heath Lane, Old Swinford, Stourbridge, DY8 1RF, UK Phone: 01384 441126

“Every case presents a challenge to provide the court with the correct information about the case based on interview and contemporaneous records.

It is always preferable to have the records before the interview. My business runs at around one thousand cases per year and I advertise in various professional journals to remain visible.

“The industry is in flux at present. Nobody really knows what the recent changes to Small Claims will do, but as MedCo with its initial reports without notes was welcoming fraud, it looks as if this will get worse. There is still nothing stopping the claimant (who may only be a friend of the driver and not even in the vehicle) claiming an injury, they get a GP expert report, no notes, and claim to have already recovered. Nothing is checked – everything could be fabrication. A weaker system would be difficult to make.”

Richard talks about some of the problems within the industry, noting how poorly some of the experts get paid, leading to an absence of clarity, alongside the lack of direct communication in some cases, as he explains.

“Success is based on sticking to the CPR. That way everyone knows what they are getting. Solicitors often try to build cases up to something that is not justified by the accident or records, but the expert has to resist changes unless documents indicate that change is appropriate.

“The best way to instruct in this industry is direct with experts. Many solicitors go through agencies but the fees are higher than going direct and the agency will take 50-80% of the fee. This is one major reason why GP expert reports are so poor – they are paid almost nothing for them and so take 5 minutes to write them. Direct communication also prevents delays that are a part of working through a third party, who will not always pass on instructions accurately and will sometimes make mistakes with items such as date of accident, which causes problems.”

20 Acquisition International - August 2017

Regarding disability, Richard believes this is an important aspect of many personal injury cases but is often overlooked. He believes this should be looked at in the future.

“Disability is an important aspect of many personal injury cases that is often overlooked, or reported on by someone very well qualified in other fields but with no qualifications in disability (the vast majority of experts do not have a disability qualification).

Claimants often present with areas previously injured that they have now re-injured or have sustained a new injury in the same area.

“Assessing the total disability in these cases is essential but these things add together strangely.

The final disability is not just the sum of the parts.

Where the two disabilities interact, there is both the individual disability plus the interaction, so one of the few cases where it is possible to say that two plus two really does equal five. Equally, where someone is left with a permanent disability, there is the potential interaction with the ageing process.

Ultimately, Richard believes there needs to be more clarity and more stringent checks within the medical and legal sectors, as people are gaining an advantage where they should not and others, particularly those with a disability are not getting the support they need.

“Cases where one remaining disability can lead to another injury are not uncommon. This is particularly the case with abnormal gait. It can be difficult to make a reasonable estimate as to when deterioration will occur if insufficient time has been allowed to determine what is most likely.

“Many cases that I see are ‘simple whiplash’, and most of those turn out not to be. My hobby horse is the neurological consequences of these injuries.

Many of the claimants have low level, usually nondisabling arm symptoms which many practitioners seem to either ignore, put down to something else or mention but then ignore. The problem is that this leaves claimants with permanent symptoms that would be completely remediable with appropriate treatment, in the majority of cases, as this is not a condition that will resolve spontaneously. The other problem with it is that claimant’s recollection.

Expert Witness

“This generates two problems: Firstly, that it can be ignored because the initial medical report does not use the notes and is usually written before the symptoms return (the claimant has usually forgotten the initial symptoms, and these reports are so brief that detailed questions are not asked).

Secondly, that when those symptoms do return, being three months later, both the claimant and the expert who is unclear of the diagnosis can put it off as something unrelated.”

Mr R Scott-Watson BSc(Hons) MB BS LLB (Hons)(Open)Cert. Av. Med. Cert.MR(2)CUEW DDAM FRCS(Ed) Orthopaedic Surgeon, Expert Witness & Disability Analyst APIL Expert Medico-Legal Reporting since 1990. Over 21,000 reports.

• •

•

•

• • • • •

Winner: FORENSIC INSIDER Orthopaedic Award 2016 Winner: Lawyer Monthly Magazine Orthopaedic Expert Witness of the Year 2016 and 2017 Winner: Forensic and Expert Witness E Magazine Medico Legal Award 2014/15 & 2016/2017 Winner: Forensic and Expert Witness E Magazine Lifetime Achievement Award for Trauma & Orthopaedics.

2014. Cardiff University Bond Solon Expert Witness Certificate.

MEOL Accredited Expert.

MedCo Accredited Expert.DME 4726.

Fully trained in CPR and in LVI cases. uk.linkedin.com/pub/richard-scottwatson/34/4bb/531/

Acquisition International - August 2017 21

1706AI50

Company: AG ADVOCATES Anna Grigorieva & Co LLC Contact: Anna Grigorieva, Partner – Managing Director Email: Anna.Grigorieva@ ag-advocates.eu / info@ag-advocates.eu Web: www.ag-advocates.eu Address: 2, Riga Fereou Street, Limassol Center, Block B, 6th floor, office 601 & 602 Limassol, CY-3095, Cyprus Phone: 00357 25 820714

Boutique Law Firm Committed to Delivering High Quality Advice AG ADVOCATES is the distinctive name of Anna Grigorieva & Co. LLC, a boutique law firm, providing clients with a wide range of legal services from highly complex matters to day-to-day transactional and legal needs.

Recently, the firm achieved the accolade Leading Adviser of the Year – Cyprus as part of the Leading Adviser 2017 Awards. We invited the boutique law firm’s Partner – Managing Director, Anna Grigorieva to tell us more about the award-winning firm. riven by a genuine commitment to each client, AG ADVOCATES provide exceptional client services and attention to detail. The firm pride themselves on delivering responsive client care and fresh thinking, working at the highest level of professionalism. They develop perceptive solutions to the often-complex needs of each individual client, from international corporations to high net worth individuals, as Anna explains.

D

“Our diverse team of dedicated lawyers and associates of the firm, with their combined skills and knowledge, provide clients with comprehensive legal solutions according to the clients’ business needs and objectives, focusing on the best possible outcome and maintaining our high standards.

“Today, AG ADVOCATES with an esteemed network of professionals and associates, including leading audit firms, financial institutions, professional advisers in Cyprus and internationally, invests continually in developing its expertise. The firm is committed to delivering high quality advice and excellent levels of service to its clients, both locally and internationally.”

When discussing the firm’s specific areas of expertise, we ask Anna if she could go into a bit more detail about her own role in AG ADVOCATES but also the areas she specialises in.

“AG ADVOCATES professionals advise on a wide spectrum of legal services, including, corporate and commercial, banking and finance, international tax planning, real estate, immigration and trusts. We further provide advisory services in relation to the establishment of a Fund, its authorisation and ongoing operational requirements, as well as obtaining licenses and registering Cyprus Investment Firms to deal in Forex under MiFID.

22 Acquisition International - August 2017

“As the managing partner of AG ADVOCATES, I oversee all legal aspects of the firm as well as the business development of the firm and further manage client relationships. I have more than 12 years’ worth of experience in law, and my expertise focuses on tax, corporate law, insolvency and restructurings, immigration and property law.”

Anna then reflects on the firm’s recent success in the Leading Adviser 2017 Awards in which they were titled Leading Adviser of the Year – Cyprus, highlighting the role the staff and professionals have played in the success of the firm.

“We are delighted to be awarded with the Leading Adviser of the Year award in Cyprus. We consider this a very honourable recognition of the hard work, professionalism and first-class services provided by our firm. This award is a great accomplishment and acknowledgment of our work, professionalism, care and attention taken to ensure that the services provided are the best they can be. I attribute this achievement to our team for the dedication and commitment to providing our clients with highly professional services and advice.

“All the professionals we cooperate with have a significant role in the success of our company, seeing as their contribution is essential to the success of our business. Our cooperation with various advisors in each field in combination with our day-to-day communication with clients is the key for AG ADVOCATES being successful in our industry.

“The multi-talented team of AG ADVOCATES plays a fundamental role in building an atmosphere of trust and confidence amongst the firm and our associates or clients. Our highly skilled professionals are in direct contact with our clients, working in a dedicated effort and providing tailored solutions and advice to meet the clients’ business needs.

Boutique Law Firm Committed to Delivering High Quality Advice

“Furthermore, certain members of our team are at the very least bilingual, while most are multilingual and can therefore operate on an international level.”

Looking ahead, 2017 is an exciting year yet challenging year for the boutique law firm. Speaking with Anna about the future of AG ADVOCATES, she highlights the firm’s expansion, within their constantly evolving industry.

“2017 is an exciting and challenging year for us.

Currently, we are in the process of relocating to our new office, situated in a key business district in Limassol, Cyprus. Alongside this, we have further recruited additional members in view of the rapid expansion of our firm in order to support our future business plans and economic growth.

“Our industry is constantly evolving which in turn presents both opportunities and challenges. In the following years, AG ADVOCATES aim to continue building on its professional expertise and the trust of its clients. We aim to remain a leading law firm within our industry, and to continue our development as a team, to deliver services and advice to our clients provided at the highest level of excellence.

“Loking forward to the future, AG ADVOCATES continues to grow and work relentlessly to provide our clients with a first-class service, professional advice and our ongoing commitment to raising standards.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 23

BE170174

Company: Syria International Islamic Bank Contact: Tareq Al Bezreh Email: t.albezreh@siib.sy Web: www.siib.sy Address: P.O Box: 35494.

Syrian Arab Republic.

Phone: 00963 011 611 46 88

Best Islamic Banking Service Provider - Syria Syria International Islamic bank was established as a Syrian private anonymous joint stock company under a developed Islamic financial vision of a strategic partnership between the private sectors in the Syrian Arab Republic and the State of Qatar.

he bank aims to be the premier choice and leading Bank in the Islamic Financial domain with a mission to offer a wide range of high quality services, including compliant financial services, funding and investment products to clients as individuals, institutions or companies in a way that meets their needs and exceeds their expectations, in accordance with the latest developments in the modern banking industry.

T

Ensuring all staff are pulling in the same direction, the bank sets out a list of values for all employees to follow. Staff must be committed to provide Shari’a – compliant services. They must also show a commitment to provide extra high quality services and build strong and permanent relations with the customers. The company values the welfare of its employees and provide incentive which helps to achieve great performance. There is a lot of cooperation and team work in which staff work together to provide the best results not only for the client but to also meet and exceed the requirements of clients.

During the establishment phase of the bank and prior to the operation stage, the Founders Committee was keen to build solid rules and foundations for the establishment of the bank which fell in line with the latest concepts of Islamic financial banking in particular, plus advanced banking in general. The bank’s philosophy, name and logo were formulated and implemented, including its future vision, mission, policy and core values, most notably the commitment to work in accordance with the provisions and rules of Islamic Shari. In addition, the bank’s institutional building mission has been entrusted to a specialized consulting firm, which has prepared various policies, work systems and procedures manuals in the various sectors of the Bank’s work, both in the departments of public administration or branches, and in various centres of banking. All this was done in accordance with the Islamic Shari’a Supervisory Board of the Bank, as well as submitted to the Monetary and Credit Council pursuant to the executive instructions of Law No. 28 of 2001.

The ceremony was attended by a number of Qatari investors, led by Sheikh Dr. Khalid Bin Thani AlThani, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Qatar International Islamic Bank and the Bank’s leadership, Qatari business guests and investors, as well as a large crowd of Syrian citizens representing various

24 Acquisition International - August 2017

sectors. The Minister of Finance, the representative of the President, the Governor of the Central Bank of Syria, the Chairman of the Commissioners of the Syrian Securities and Exchange Commission and a number of representatives of the Syrian economic activities. This launch was a good start to a process that took off during 2008, The actual financial year for the first march of the bank.

According to its CEO, Mr. Abdelkader Abdel Hakim Dweik, the bank is vital to the Syrian banking market in general, but also the Islamic market in particular.

Mr. Abdelkader Abdel Hakim Dweik believes that the bank is the best bank for clients to permanently deal with, achieving the client’s goals and banking requirements in accordance with Islamic Sharia.

Highlighting the bank’s logo, he notes that the bank aims to work with customers and build long-term relationships, offering them the extensive services and sophisticated experience that they are looking for.

“The bank has been able to be a key player in the Syrian banking market in general and Islamic in particular and has managed to realize its vision to be the first choice for customers in Islamic banking.

“The Bank’s logo is a sign of our strategy of partnering with customers and building a long-term relationship with them by making a quantum leap in the banking world, offering our clients, shareholders and employees a pioneering, new and sophisticated experience while preserving our original values and contributing to the economic development process.

In the Syrian Arab Republic.

“SIB provides a range of effective banking services to meet your needs throughout the region. As a customer, you will experience unparalleled flexibility and responsiveness to meet your banking needs.

We are pleased to provide you with a high level of service by dedicating our time and commitment to helping you complete We aim to achieve your goals and your banking requirements in accordance with Islamic Sharia, so that we hope to meet your requirements and exceed your expectation”.

Fundamentally, the Syria International Islamic Bank works very hard to put the client first and ensuring relationships are long-lasting. Everything done during the founding of the bank was with its services and vision in mind, working in accordance with the provisions and rules of Islamic Sharia.

Best Islamic Banking Service Provider - Syria

Acquisition International - August 2017 25

1706AI45

Company: Svalner Contact: Louise Korswall Email: Louise.Korswall@ svalner.se Web: www.svalner.se Address: Smålandsgatan 16, Stockholm, 111 46, Sweden Phone: 0708 55 93 96

Leading Adviser 2017 Awards: Leading Tax Adviser of the Year Sweden Svalner is an independent tax advisor with a comprehensive, integrated offering. We profiled the firm to find out more about the services they offer and explore the secrets behind its success.

valner is Sweden’s leading independent tax advisory firm, and has an integrated and comprehensive offering. The team are a group of dedicated people who all possess very high legal expertise. Staff work in small teams, close to the client, with accessibility, quality and client focus being the guiding principles.

S

Offering a variety of services, the firm provides independent tax advice primarily for mediumsized and large enterprises. Staff offer clients comprehensive and integrated tax advice covering all tax disciplines. The independence and integrated approach of each employee are what set the company apart from the large accounting firms.

At the company, there are real estate group specialists who boast a wealth of experience of tax-related issues in the real estate sector. There are numerous tax regulations impacting on property transactions and these are changing constantly, meaning specialist knowledge is often needed on occasions throughout the life cycle of a property.

The expertise of the specialists covers all stages; ranging from financing, structuring, construction projects and management through to transactions.

Real estate acquisitions and sales often give rise to complex tax issues, and staff help the client throughout the entire process to ensure the most tax-efficient transaction possible. The team can also offer advice on complicated property taxation issues and on the optimum apportionment of investment costs for tax depreciation purposes.

The overall aim of the firm is to adopt a general approach to client’s real estate issues, thereby helping clients to optimise their property transaction and covering all bases.

• Day-to-day advice on tax law, specialising in property-owning companies • Tax due diligence in property transactions • Structuring before sale and acquisition of properties • Preparation of tax computations and income tax returns • VAT issues applying specifically to the construction and real estate sector • Property taxation

26 Acquisition International - August 2017

•

Advice on optimum apportionment of investment costs for tax depreciation purposes

Alongside the real estate taxation issues covered by the company, staff can also offer a day-to-day analysis of tax risks facing the clients’ business.

Swedish and international corporate taxation is constantly changing, which makes it difficult and time-consuming for businesses to monitor and analyse the many changes themselves. Difficult questions are frequently arising for businesses and clients. Staff at Svalner have the answers and can give the client the advice they need. The firm identifies and anticipates the tax risks facing their business, as well as opportunities that present themselves. The aim is effective management of local and global tax costs, taking account of Swedish and international regulations. The group provide a dedicated team with cutting-edge competence and long experience of advising on complex tax issues. Employees work with corporations, groups of companies, closely-held companies and partnerships. Staff can assist clients with: • Day-to-day tax advice focusing on construction and real property companies • Advice on the acquisition and sale of companies and real property • Structuring and implementation of reorganisations focusing on real property • Group taxation • International tax structuring • Tax returns and tax compliance Svalner has extensive experience and in-depth expertise in international individual taxation. This specialist group can assist clients with: • International income taxation and wealth taxation • Application of double taxation treaties and specific Swedish tax regulations (such as the ‘expert tax’ regime and special income tax for non-residents) • Tax computations for individuals VAT regulations are complex and often difficult to apply. Short accounting periods quickly cause minor errors to have major implications. Changes in business models or business partnerships often

Leading Adviser 2017 Awards: Leading Tax Adviser of the Year - Sweden

have consequences. Svalner has a VAT department with broad expertise and long experience in most sectors.

Good VAT advice demands knowledge of the industry, since it is necessary to understand the market in which the customer operates. The team help businesses to navigate and meet their obligations in the field of VAT and other indirect taxes (including advertising tax, alcohol tax and energy taxes). The variety of issues that the firm can help clients with are listed below: • Advice on transactions and restructuring • Mapping and analysis of flows of goods and services • Reducing VAT costs • Preventative steps to improve and rationalise VAT procedures • Rationalising processes for reporting and internal control • VAT representatives for foreign enterprises Svalner’s M&A and Private Equity Group offers expert advice covering all aspects of M&A deals and fund structuring.

It has ample experience of complex deals, from both the adviser and the client perspective. The range of services includes: • Fund structuring • Acquisition and exit structuring • Tax due diligence • M&A insurance • Management participation programmes and incentive programmes • Ownership issues • Portfolio company management • Day-to-day advice Svalner offers tailored, tax-optimised transfer pricing models for international companies. For instance, what is the right price to charge for services supplied by a group company in Sweden to one elsewhere? The professionals at the firm have wide-ranging experience of the highly specific tax rules involved in these cases and are able to help with: • Implementing and structuring transfer pricing principles • Preparing tailored documentation • Benchmarking • Preparing intra-group agreements • Valuing intangibles • Financial solutions and models

Acquisition International - August 2017 27

IW170046

Totally Captiv8ting Captiv8 is a company with a wealth of experience, which has been producing events for over sixteen years and are proud to admit this is due to their clients coming back to them every year. We profiled the company and its founder, Oya Evans, winner of our Most Influential Woman in Events 2017 – South East England & Events Agency of the Year 2017 London, to find out what makes them so successful and how they make every event unforgettable.

Company: Captiv8 Creative Events Contact: Oya Evans Email: info@captiv8events.com info@captiv8dance.com Web: www.captiv8events.co.uk www.captiv8dance.co.uk Facebook: captiv8eventslondon Instagram: captiv8eventslondon Twitter: captiv8event

hilst working with celebrities and other professional clients as an agent, Oya Evans found herself assisting event organisers. Her aim was to arrange the parties to suit her client’s requirements, after all, the event had to be the right party for the client to attend.

W

Oya had the answers and the passion for creating something more than the average event for her clients, this lead to the formation of Captiv8. She is currently supported by a team of experienced producers who have all worked for some of the top event organisations.

The team has 20 years of experience producing events in Europe, Asia and North America plus an enviable track record with private and corporate clients in all sectors including: professional and financial services, legal, travel and tourism, film premiers, charity events, TV and Launch parties.

From meeting and greeting to the final farewell, Captiv8 ensure that no guest is left in any doubt about the quality and professionalism of the client’s company.

Captiv8 possess staff who love to work all over London, with the firm’s clientele ranging from 50 to 2500 clients. Employees at the company happily arrange as much or as little as the client chooses.

All the company needs to know is the client’s preferred area, budget, number of guests and type of event. There is a complimentary service offered by the firm which saves the client time and effort, meaning they can channel their energy elsewhere and concentrate on the important aspects of their business.

Concerning the fees of Captiv8, the firm are in the position to offer clients a complimentary service as it negotiates a commission fee with the venue. The total budget is spent on the client’s party, with the contract always being between the client and the venue.

Differentiating themselves from other firms within the industry, Captiv8 are a group of people who are passionate about providing a memorable event which truly gets the message across. The event is all about the client and sending the message across to attendees.

Possessing high-quality relationships with notorious clients, the company pride itself on creating fabulous events, exceeding all expectations. The business utilises its relationships with venues and suppliers in order to ensure the best rates. If the client is typically happy with doing most of the organising then the firm is available to help out, however, if the client prefers to take a step back, then the Captiv8 team will take a hands on role and provide an unforgettable occasion. The team usually cater for events which hold 20-2,500 people and are always happy to discuss numbers and other requirements with the client.

Regardless of the event, Captiv8 can organise it, whether it be a Christmas party, a product launch or even private dining and weddings, the firm has the client covered. Perfection comes from staff experience, dedication and passion to create an event which is remembered long after the party has ended.

When it comes to product launches, the team at Captiv8 believe it is all about the brand. The venue, atmosphere, location are all factors that are put in place to promote the product. Staff consider and advise on other fundamentals, creative invitations, appropriate entertainment and use technology to incorporate relevant audio visuals. The launch needs to be exciting and attract the interest of guests, attracting press whilst also reflecting the brand values.

Whether it is a civil ceremony, religious service or civil partnership, Captiv8 will take clients through probably one of the most important checklists they will ever need, the one for their wedding!

The team will organise as much or as little as they are told by the client. The areas covered by staff at the firm include: Venue, floristry, entertainment, invitations, table plan, candles, lighting, wedding cake, photography, videography, family attire, transport, religious ceremonies, civil partnership, design, catering, music, bands, DJ’s, toast masters, table centres, favours, confetti, decoration and everything else clients could possibly need or want for their big day.

28 Acquisition International - August 2017

Totally Captiv8ting

Christmas parties, especially corporate can be difficult to organise. However, Captiv8 will have a brief conversation with prospective clients to ask, the preferred date of the party, the number of guests and the type of party the company had in mind. The area of the party is also considered, along with the theme. After this, the team will take over and organise an outstanding event. It is not solely Christmas parties organised by Captiv8, but private parties too. These occasions are ideal for clients to share and celebrate with those close to them, and can reflect the client’s very own personal taste, whether it be at home or in a fantastic venue appropriate for the occasion. Captiv8 will ensure the client celebrates in style.

The Captiv8 Team are happy to meet with all clients and discuss the overall impression they would like to convey to guests. With regard to venue sourcing, the firm sits down with the client and discusses the event that is being planned, covering theme, colour, lights, style and mood. These factors will surround the guests throughout the duration of the event and the team never underestimates the feeling created to entertain them – the location is important because it will influence the atmosphere.

In the view of the firm, the food must be not only delicious but beautifully prepared and exquisitely presented. It makes no difference if clients are having a sit down meal, buffet, canapés, or bowl food, the catering is always extremely important.

At any event, the entertainment is important, as the client has invited their guests and it is vital you entertain them. Captiv8 have a variety of entertainers and they are chosen appropriately for each event. From the mystical to the hilarious, there is an abundance of talented individuals and groups.

When it comes to music, The Earthlights Boogie Band are at your service to perform, deliver and captivate any audience for great live entertainment.

The Earthlights can erupt and delight any audience, big or small, with their classic cover tracks. Their versatile style and knowledge of creating a memorable event is second to none. Whether it is entertaining an exclusive Wedding party during the day, playing smooth jazz on the lawn, or a party at night, the band and their subsequent entertainment are available.

Captiv8 have also recently launched their dance company captiv8dance.com, where they introduce you to your preferred dance style at your own pace.

They teach all styles for complete beginners to advanced dancers. Parties include; Hen Do’s, Stag Do’s, corporate team building, charity events, your first wedding dance and more. These are held at 20 venues across London with more than 50 classes and over 1000 dancers, why not become one of them.

So, whether you want to feel confident at the company Christmas party, shine on your wedding day with a memorable first dance, or perhaps learn a new style as a hobby, there are a variety of classes that we build around your ability.

Ultimately, if an event needs planning, then Captiv8 are the firm best equipped to organise it. Covering a variety of events and already holding a sterling reputation within the industry, the company are set to capitalise on their ongoing success. With notorious clients, talented staff and an innovative and unique founder, these are exciting times for the company.

Acquisition International - August 2017 29

FD160107

Let Justice Roll Company: Cochran Firm South Florida LLP Name: Marjorie Mulla Email: MMulla@cochranfirm.com Web: www.cochranfirm.com Address: 657 South Dr., Suite 304, Miami Springs, Florida 33166, USA Phone: +1 305 567 1200

The Cochran Firm, a law firm founded by legendary attorney Johnnie L. Cochran, Jr. over four decades ago. As winner of the Best for Automobile Accident Litigation – Florida, we invited the firm to profile some of their excellent legal work.

ith regional offices, nationwide, The Cochran Firm is one of the USA’s largest personal injury & medical malpractice law firms with some of the most aggressive personal injury attorneys, known for their tireless and effective legal representation.

W

The Cochran firm partners between them have secured over $35 billion in verdicts, settlements and judgments for our clients. With a reputation like ours, it’s easy to get swept away with accolades and awards.

At The Cochran Firm, though, our experienced and aggressive personal injury attorneys and criminal defence lawyers focus not on praise, but the dedication to handling quality, legal representation for injured people, their families and the ordinary citizen, as implemented by Johnnie Cochran over four decades ago.

With 11 unprecedented verdicts, more than $100 million each and 35 more than $10 million, the partners practicing in The Cochran Firm have secured over $45 billion in verdicts, settlements and judgments for our clients. While we cannot guarantee that your claim will result in millions of dollars, we can guarantee that the firm will fight tooth and nail; taking your case as far as necessary to ensure you are awarded every penny you are due.

We are proud of our service to our clients. We are also proud to know that much of our work both in and out of the court room has been integral in changing corporate and government policy for the better. The firm sets a precedent when we can, but always set out to obtain justice.

Auto accident attorneys If you have been injured or a loved one has been killed in an auto accident, you need a dedicated attorney on your side. The experienced auto accident lawyers at The Cochran Firm have a proven record of helping victims of injury get maximum compensation. We are here to take the case, fight for your rights and help you get the justice you are due.

Our auto accident attorneys handle all types of accidents involving motor vehicles. This includes: • Car accidents; • Truck accidents; • Motorcycle accidents; • Pedestrian and bicycle accidents and; • Bus accidents.

We also accept cases involving boating injuries and airplane accidents. No matter what type of vehicle you were in when your accident occurred, the auto accident lawyers at The Cochran Firm can help you get the compensation you need to make the best recovery possible. Our lawyers work with a network of experts to thoroughly investigate auto accidents and identify all contributing factors.

We use this information to build solid, evidencebased cases that greatly improve the likelihood of a successful outcome. It is important to remember that without an auto accident attorney on your side, you are at the mercy of insurance companies who are often more concerned with profits than helping victims of injury. With our legal team on your side, you will be protected against the predatory tactics of these companies and are much more likely to receive the full compensation you deserve.

Medical malpractice attorney Another aspect of our work concerns medical malpractice. To set the scene here, it is true to say that hospitals are supposed to be places of healing. They’re where you go when you’re hurt or sick and you need the aid of well-educated, highly trained professionals.

However, every year nearly 100,000 Americans die because of avoidable medical mistakes.

Most doctors and other medical professionals are capable, caring, compassionate individuals who work hard for the health of their patients. However, medical mistakes are usually devastating in their consequences and no victims are more innocent than patients who have come to a doctor looking for aid.

The medical malpractice lawyers at The Cochran Firm don’t think you should have to suffer because of a medical professional’s mistake. We’ll use

30 Acquisition International - August 2017

Let Justice Roll

our decades of experience in personal injury law to investigate your case and pursue justice and compensation for your injuries.

While negligence is the root cause of most forms of medical malpractice, it’s important to understand a couple of key points. First, not every unfortunate result in a hospital is a case of medical malpractice.

This area of law is complicated and it’s vital you speak with a lawyer immediately so you can get a sense of the validity of your claim.

It’s crucial that you speak to the lawyers at The Cochran Firm immediately after you’ve been hurt.

Many people don’t even know they have a potential medical malpractice claim and thus lose the opportunity to pursue justice for their injuries.

We can help by: • Using our experience and expertise to evaluate your case; • Investigating the incident and determining fault; • Arranging expert medical testimony to point out where things went awry during your treatment; • Dealing with insurance companies and; • Crafting a compelling case in the court room and fighting on your behalf in the negotiating room.

All our initial consultations are free, which means there’s no reason you shouldn’t speak to our medical malpractice lawyers, now.

Acquisition International - August 2017 31

1707AI22

Company: OPTIM-AL Ltd Name: Krassimir Gurov PhD Email: kag@optim-al.com Web: www.optim-al.com Address: Sofia 1612, Tzar Boris III Blvd. 7, Floor 6, Office 8, Business Center ‘BALKAN’ Bulgaria Phone: +359 2 951 67 22

Keep Mother Nature Green OPTIM-AL Ltd., selected as part of Top 50 in Technology, is a provider of IT solutions and software for manufacturing and logistics. We interviewed the firm’s manager, Krassimir Gurov to find out more about the firm’s offerings and how they are applied.

PTIM-AL Ltd., founded in 1996, is a provider of IT solutions and software for manufacturing and logistics.

Proprietary products and contemporary technologies are used for implementing projects in the following application areas: • Manufacturing operations management; • Management of production and warehouse logistics (incl. WMS); • Assets tracking and maintenance and; • Real time locating (RTLS) and in door positioning.

O

The firm’s manager, Krassimir Gurov begins by revealing more about the firm’s exciting software offerings and their approach when undertaking a new client or project.

“Field Force Automation solutions bring the benefits of computing and wireless connectivity to the point of action as stand-alone systems and/or extensions of existing corporate software. Material and product flows tagging and automatic identifying allow tracking and tracing, productivity measurement and key performance indicators (KPI) supervision.

“The FASTY software platform provides a broad base for variety of customised solutions, aimed at digitising work processes and at transparency of manufacturing. OPTIM-AL offers: technical consulting, software development, wireless LAN design and deployment, system integration and maintenance. The own products and industry experience are combined with RFID, IIoT, M2M, and wireless communications technologies to achieve highly effective turnkey projects.

“When undertaking a new client or project, there is no single standardised approach. Every client and project in our industry is unique. We rely on expertise, experience and some proven patterns.”

Krassimir then impresses upon us what being selected as part of Top 50 in Technology means to both him and the firm.

“We are delighted to be selected as part of this prestigious Top 50 in Technology award, and it makes us proud of our hard work here, and motivates us to continue achieving excellence in all that we do. The award is a wonderful

32 Acquisition International - August 2017

encouragement for me, my team and everybody that works at OPTIM-AL Ltd and we would like to thank you very much for including us in this, it certainly means a lot to us.”

OPTIM-AL’s FASTY horizontal solution has been proven in various industries including: car battery production; pharmaceutical; plastic packaging moulding; metal processing and can production; warehousing and distribution, covering all chain of materials management, QA, WIP reporting, product flow tracking and finished goods management.

Krassimir is keen to give us more details on the firm’s software offerings.

“FASTY Assets (assets tracking and maintenance product) is well accepted in business and state administration. The recent research is on applying new technologies and IT solutions, to measuring KPI and monitoring manufacturing operations. It is dedicated to digital transformation, aiming at standalone services for operational management and/or integration to ERP. “OPTIM-AL can offer expertise and subcontracting in IT projects for manufacturing to industrial partners who need to improve their production tracking and tracing, monitoring of manufacturing processes and warehouse management etc. The goal is achievement of real-time process visibility to provide enhanced business intelligence, decisionmaking support and more effective manufacturing.

We can also offer expertise to IT partners and investors who seek: new related or complementary business lines; research and technical cooperation and/or subcontracting plus new offerings to existing customers and new markets.”

Krassimir then directs out attention to the state of the wider software sector today, plus the essential attributes for a firm such as OPTIM-AL Ltd to achieve success.

“Looking at wider sector developments, Industry 4 wave, industrial internet of things and various aspects of digitalisation revolutionise the approaches to the factory of the future are important to us. We try to select adequate points of all these novelty flows - to keep our projects close to the contemporary trends and the customers’ requirements.

Keep Mother Nature Green

“The essential attributes of our success are a passion for novelties, a knowledge of newly appearing technologies and products as well as the experience and an understanding of both manufacturing processes and environment.”

In closing, Krassimir is keen to reveal the main challenge OPTIM-AL Ltd faces as they go forward into the future.

“The main challenge is selecting and combining technologies and components to reach the thresholds of a price sensitive market we work on, furthermore providing value for the customers.

And we never forget we must keep Mother Nature green.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 33

1706AI40

Company: Leroy şi Asociaţii Name: Bruno Leroy Email: leroy@leroylaw.ro Web: www.leroylaw.ro Address: Strada Maior Gh. Șontu nr. 10-12, Sector 1, București, 011448 Romania Phone: +40 21 223 03 10

A True Leader in the Market Leroy şi Asociaţii is a full-service firm, based in Bucharest, Romania. They have become one of the ‘go to’ firms across several practice areas. As the exclusive winner of the Leading Adviser of the Year – Romania accolade, within the Leading Adviser 2017 Awards, we took the opportunity to interview Bruno Leroy to learn more about the firm’s renowned expertise within the legal sector. ith almost 20 years of experience on the market, Leroy şi Asociaţii is one of Romania’s leading and fastest growing independent firms of its kind. It emerged from the former French law firm Gide’s Bucharest team, originally established in Romania during 1998. Bruno Leroy introduces the firm’s work and shares with us how it feels to win the Leading Adviser of the Year - Romania accolade.

W

“We are a full-service firm. We have become one of the ‘go to’ firms across several practice areas, as has been demonstrated through our involvement in some of the largest national and multi-jurisdictional deals and projects, focusing on both high value transactions and day to day legal advice.”

“We are extremely excited to be named Leading Adviser of the Year – Romania. This we believe is a recognition of the exceptional talent of our people, and the pure hard work and dedication that our team has put into all projects and client files handled over the past twelve months. During the past year, we have been involved in some of the most important investments and transactions in the Romanian market (namely the first successful IPO of a private firm in the medical sector and a series of acquisitions in the IT, FMCG and the industrial sectors).”

“This award confirms our position as a leader in the field of business law, and we believe that it will help us to further cement Leroy şi Asociaţii as the ‘go to’ firm - for companies seeking best in class legal advice in Romania. We will continue to promote talent and innovation in a dynamic and diverse environment, where great ideas are both welcome and encouraged. This we believe transforms into excellent results for our clients.”

Bruno then tells us about his own role as an adviser and more about the firm’s specific areas of expertise and what they can offer potential clients.

“As the founding partner of Leroy şi Asociaţii I specialise in corporate, M&A as well as competition, distribution and consumer law. As for my own role in the firm, I prefer to let my achievements and work speak on my behalf. I am very proud of our team and our achievements and I look forward to us growing together, as individuals and as a firm.”

34 Acquisition International - August 2017

“During almost two decades of providing high level legal advice and critical support to our broad portfolio of clients, we have gained national and international recognition for our role in some of the most significant investments and transactions in Romania. We provide our multinational, SME, international institution and local clients with the full range of services to meet their specific legal needs and, to facilitate smooth interaction with the Romanian authorities and other stakeholders.”

Bruno then reveals more about people, in terms of both the firm’s client base and his own staff.

“Our clients range from multinationals, SME’s, international institutions and local companies. We have a diversified customer base that continues to grow. As I have mentioned before, we let our work speak for itself and thus, we have gained much recognition as well as new clients through word of mouth.”

“Leroy şi Asociaţii is structured into different teams, which specialise in the main areas of business law: corporate M&A, banking & finance, competition, distribution & consumer law, real estate, energy & natural resources, projects & infrastructure, intellectual property & data protection, employment, dispute resolution and insurance & aviation.”

“We believe in growing talent from within and investing in our people. As a result of the firm’s continuous growth, we have started 2017 with the announcement of two new partners, Cristina Togan and Eleonora Udroiu – both highly recognised lawyers with extensive experience in banking & finance, real estate, commercial, energy and competition law. Both Cristina and Eleonora have been part of the team for more than 10 years, so we take great pride in them and the quality of work they produce. They are partners that I would describe as both true professionals and leaders.

“On the other end, we continue to recruit junior lawyers, young professionals who develop and grow under our constant care and mentoring.”

In closing, Bruno is eager to share the firm’s plans for 2017 and the exciting opportunities coming up for them.

A True Leader in the Market

“Our main objective is to continue to offer high quality legal advice to our clients, as we assist them in successful transactions and to offer a full range of legal services, that meet their specific needs.”

“The Romanian business landscape is becoming increasingly dynamic and this is driving growth in compelling investment opportunities across various sectors. We are seeing a definite rise in highly sophisticated transactions taking place in the market and we are confident that the firm will continue to play an integral role in the most significant deals and investments in the country, supported by our fast-growing reputation as a leader in the market.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 35

1708AI10

Company: Yuasa and Hara Name: Osamu Yamamoto Email: yamamoto-ch@ yuasa-hara.co.jp Web: www.yuasa-hara.co.jp Address: Section 206, New-Ohtemachi Building, 2-1 Ohtemachi, 2-chome, Chiyoda-ku Tokyo 100-0004 Japan Phone: +81 3 3270 6641

A Wide Range of Legal Experience Founded in 1902, Japanese law firm Yuasa and Hara has developed expertise covering seamless intellectual property protection, various business legal issues, and accounting. We spoke to the firm’s partner at the patent division and chief of chemical section, Osamu Yamamoto, to celebrate their receiving of the Leading Intellectual Property and Patent Practitioner of the Year – Japan accolade. ounded in 1902, Yuasa and Hara is a pioneer in multidisciplinary practice.

The firm is organised into four divisions: law, patent, trademark & design and accounting & auditing. It is one of the oldest law and patent firms in Japan today.

F

Partner at the patent division and chief of the chemical section, Osamu Yamamoto provides an excellent introduction to the firm’s work and his own role within it.

“At Yuasa and Hara, we have many professionals specialising in a variety of areas, including 21 lawyers, 63 patent attorneys, three certified public accountants and one tax accountant. While each division functions independently as a legal, patent and accounting firm, our members also closely cooperate with each other. They do this to provide complete and multiple intellectual property services to clients, both in Japan and overseas.

“Since the early days of the firm, provision of an international service for both Japanese and foreign clients have been at the core of our legal and intellectual property practice. We have unprecedented expertise across all relevant legal and technical fields and providing seamless integration of intellectual property protection, business law and accounting.

“My major areas of expertise are: biochemistry; diagnostics; food science; pharmaceuticals; microbiology; polymer chemistry (all aspects of patent issues, including filing patent applications and patent term extensions, handling Japan Patent Office actions, providing expert opinions, defending or attacking patent rights in invalidation trials or post-grant oppositions, and representing clients in infringement litigation).”

Since the early days of Yuasa and Hara, the provision of expeditious international services, for their clients both in Japan and overseas has been the core value of the firm’s practice, Osamu tells us.

“To sustain and enhance this capacity, we have always valued international cooperation with overseas law and patent firms and have established a strong global network. We have built up alliances

36 Acquisition International - August 2017

with overseas reliable law firms, especially about corporate legal and IP cases.

“In addition to these private alliances, there are always several members of our firm actively engaged in international associations relating to law and IP such as AIPLA, AIPPI, ALAI, APAA, FICPI, INTA, IPBA and LES, thus building close relationships with foreign lawyers and patent attorneys.”

Osamu then tells us about the firm’s general corporate legal services of their attorneys-at-law.

“We handle professional legal services in various areas. We prepare a system to immediately respond to cases that require understanding of complicated facts - or technologies and process cases more promptly and adequately - even in areas that require advanced expertise.

“The firm’s major areas of legal expertise are: corporate legal practice, corporate and commercial dispute resolution services, patent and intellectual property litigation, unfair competition litigation, and licensing.”

The firm has several attorneys-at-law, who are former judges at the intellectual property division of high court, or those whose major in university was in science and technology.

“We can handle various cases relating to intellectual property - with the help of our patent attorneys – who have specialised knowledge at the firm’s patent as well as our trademark and design division.

“We have a wide range of experience in legal advice when it comes to the preparing or reviewing of expert opinions, contracts and company rules in case of disputes, on pursuing negotiations, litigations, arbitration and mediation procedures.”

Yuasa and Hara provides support and representation in all aspects of patent administration, Osamu tells us.

“We have an experienced group of patent attorneys, specialising in a wide variety of technical fields including chemical, electric/electronic, mechanical and highly advanced technologies.

A Wide Range of Legal Experience

“We combine the skills of patent attorneys with those of our intellectual property lawyers and trademark attorneys, who are all well versed in obtaining, protecting and enforcing intellectual property rights.

This allows us to offer comprehensive intellectual property services - and to help you protect intellectual property rights pertaining to your new ideas - including patents, copyrights, industrial design rights and trademarks.

“We aid every step of the patent process, from preparation and prosecution of patent applications, to post-grant proceedings and enforcement. We serve a diverse client base, ranging from domestic and overseas individuals to corporations.”

In closing, Osamu tells us how it feels to be awarded the leading Intellectual Property and Patent Practitioner of the Year – Japan accolade.

He also outlines his future plans.

“It is a great honour for our firm and myself. In terms of my future plans, I will be attending the AIPPI 2017 conference in Sydney, as a panellist of the session ‘digital health’. Digital health is a field that has been developing rapidly, indeed it is one that our firm is focussing on.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 37

1708AI03

Company: De Micco & Friends - Lawyers & Auditors Name: Luigi Carlo De Micco Email: office@demicco.ch Web: www.lawyers-auditors.com Address: C. Llorenc y Vicens 3, 4th. floor, 07002 Palma de Mallorca - Spain Phone: +34 871 955 077

Integrity, Dedication and Ambition De Micco & Friends - Lawyers & Auditors (De Micco & Friends) employs lawyers, auditors, investment bankers and rest estate experts who work hand in hand. The firm recently received the exclusive Most Outstanding Law Firm 2017 – Spain award. To mark this success, we took the opportunity to have a chat with the firm’s esteemed founder, CEO and President, Luigi Carlo De Micco to find out more about the firm’s work in the legal landscape today. ounder, CEO & president of De Micco & Friends Lawyers & Auditors (De Micco & Friends), Luigi Carlo De Micco, was born on 29 April 1964 and is of a German-Italian background. Luigi has been living in Monte Carlo since 2001.

F

Luigi is well known for his expert and interactive lectures, in which his practical knowledge and the professional know-how and experience of entrepreneurs, is not only presented in a competent manner for the areas of communications, branding and corporate financing, but also in an entertaining way.

Founder, CEO and President, Luigi Carlo De Micco kicks things off by telling us about the firm’s line of work and expertise.

“De Micco & Friends employs lawyers, auditors, investment bankers and rest estate experts who work hand in hand. This offers you concentrated know-how for almost all types of business and legal cases. Integrity and dedication, experience and ambition: we require the most from each of the lawyers of our group.

“The partners and senior partners of De Micco & Friends are experienced lawyers, with different areas of expertise. The legal advisors and notaries are lawyers with excellent expertise. Most of the partners have many years of professional experience. By combining the firm’s proximity to the corporate world and our excellent legal expertise, De Micco & Friends can get done more for you – in all industries and all areas of the law, both in the region and internationally.

“De Micco & Friends have offices and partners in several countries. The regional offices always consist of dynamic and flexible teams. You as the client thus enjoy the competence of an international corporation, but also a high degree of personal attention – and for much better prices than comparable large law firms.”

Principles of advice Whatever your focus is or which industry you work in, the lawyers of the full-service law firm De Micco & Friends advises you across the whole range of

38 Acquisition International - August 2017

business law. Luigi develops this point and then tells us about the clients the firm serves.

“From employment law to competition law, from clearly defined local challenges to complicated transnational projects, you can be sure that the right experts will advise you on the correct answers and solutions regarding your transactions and legal questions. The satisfaction and the success of the clients are the most important benchmark for the quality of our work. We focus on tailor-made concepts and individual solutions – at a fair price.

As a client of De Micco & Friends, you participate in the cross-border industry and legal expertise as well as the experience in dynamic key markets like Europe, the US, Russia, China, India and South America.

“Many of our clients operate globally, industryrelated and are multicultural. De Micco & Friends emphasise a pronounced specialisation on specific industries for the largest sectors of the economy.

We believe that the combination of professional expertise in business law and of special industry knowledge, is indispensable for the implementation of efficient services and for improving the quality of the advice given. The international network of partners and senior partners positions us internationally, yet you can always reach us locally.

“Not only medium-sized and large business use the services of De Micco & Friends, but private individuals do also. Especially for real estate transactions, questions of succession and private purchase contracts, both sellers and buyers use the legal competence and the transaction experience of De Micco & Friends.”

De Micco & Friends represents the following professional, industry and legal areas to name just a few: real estate transactions (buy, sell, rent); employment law; immigration to EU for EU and nonEU citizens; tax law; company set up and business formation; wealth management and structuring; mergers & acquisitions; energy sector; investment funds & insurance; law of association; intellectual property; human resources; infrastructure & project financing; bankruptcy; anti-trust law & EU law; capital markets law; consumer goods industry; public economic law; patent and trademark

Integrity, Dedication and Ambition

law; private equity and financing; restructuring; technology, media & telecommunication as well as procurement.

Luigi then underlines why trust is important when it comes to obtaining legal advice and adds his thoughts on the firm’s entrepreneurial approach by conviction.

“Legal advice is a matter of trust. We don’t simply ask our clients to trust in the quality of the service and the integrity of the staff and the partners. But we invite you to gain this trust through successfully implemented projects and transactions. Test us!

“We are fully aware that you as the client must to rely on your lawyers’ advice and competence always. The firm’s partners’ actions are guided by this - we ensure the quality of our service through regular quality reviews and the four-eyes principle which applies to all partners and senior partners.

“In terms of the firm’s entrepreneurial approach by conviction, our lawyers always advise you proactively. We respond flexibly and fast. Naturally, we don’t only point out risks, but we offer clear instructions on how to act. In addition, the firm’s advice is tailored to your individual goals and your definitions of success. You may always expect that our lawyers know and understand your business.”

Internationality and stability As a concluding remark, Luigi tells us what sets the firm apart and the important work they do.

“Thanks to the interdisciplinary cooperation with the international offices of De Micco & Friends we have a wealth of experience both at the national and the international level. Especially if your business spans more than one country, you will find the right partner in us. You will benefit from the local presence and our international connections.

“The personal contact with our clients is very important to us. Short and direct means of communication can be decisive for a quick and efficient implementation of a project. To ensure this, a personal contact will always be available to you.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 39

1701AI53

Founder & CEO: Mr. Amin Amiri Director of Investments: Mr. William Rawkins Company: a2e Industries Limited Address: No. 1 Marsden Street, Manchester, M2 1HW Phone: +44 (0)161 923 6000 Fax: +44 (0)161 236 7266 Web: www.a2evc.com

Making Investment Magic in the Mid-Market a2e Industries are an innovative, Manchester based investment firm focusing on mid-market firms. We profile the firm and examine its dedication to creating shareholder value.

ince inception in 2001, a2e has distinctly embraced investing in or acquiring mid-market industrial/ manufacturing businesses, in special situations such as turnarounds, stagnant businesses, shareholder conflicts or exits, financial distress and businesses poised for substantial growth. Now, the firm’s operations closely resemble those of a traditional London Merchant Bank, but with an entrepreneurial perspective and a distinctive focus and ethos.

S

As such a2e invest in or acquire underperforming Mid-market industrial companies, focusing on achieving their aim: to affect a transformation of the key fundamentals of the businesses, thus “enabling/ revitalising” the corporates and empowering the managers to prosper in the global marketplace. An inspirational and sustainable investment model, fit for the 21st Century, this innovative approach is applied with passion and integrity.

“The firm are committed to unlocking the potential, preserve and enhance wealth by deploying its entrepreneurial flair, as augmented by a high level of expertise and involvement” a2e’s CEO, Amin Amiri, a prominent and innovative corporate financier, founded a2e 15 years ago with the sole purpose of implementing his distinctive vision and operating ethos, and deploying his contrarian approach to investing and management of the portfolio companies.

Operating as a long term investor, a2e mainly invests on a selective basis in businesses with a neglected industrial brand and/ or in special situations. Once it has invested the firm seeks to inspire the people within the business and help them develop a shared strategic vision and a road map to wealth creation, tailored to the business’s strengths. Wealth is created by empowering the managers to invest in/ upgrade the business fundamentals and to create

40 Acquisition International - August 2017

sustainable competitive edges fit for the global marketplace. Through this hands-on approach a2e create alignment of objectives with the managers and other stakeholders by sharing the reward, and are cognisant of preserving the best features of a business including the loyalty of the people.

This is in line with the firm’s overall strategy, which relies upon the three prongs of the transformative process, which a2e believes are an astute strategic assessment of a business’s competences/ competitive environment, an entrepreneurial deployment of our own funds and a robust alignment of our execution/management capabilities and respective interests.

Fundamentally, a2e’s impressive progress and track record is due to this all-encompassing approach and our entrepreneurial perspective to creating value/wealth for Mid-market businesses and shareholders. The firm’s Academy of Executives, consisting of seasoned and successful industrialists/CEO’s is a source of inspiration and provides creative advice to a2e’s portfolio company managers.

What truly sets a2e apart is its enabling ethos, deploying the key pillars of successful investing in Mid-market businesses. Uniquely, the firm focus on shareholder strategy first and foremost, as this naturally determines the investment parameters, risk appetite and at the outset, a clear path to enhancing value.

The vision for the business and the corporate strategy is then determined firmly within this context. A key attribute of a2e is its vast experience and expertise in evaluating, determining and implementing appropriate shareholder and corporate strategies.

By deploying their own funds to invest as equity and debt in mid-market companies, a2e highlight their faith in their own, unique approach. The ability to commit funds quickly is a most effective way to invest in/acquire underperforming/hyper-growth businesses and a major differentiating feature of a2e. In many such circumstances, raising funds from third parties is time consuming and is often futile, making a2e an ideal partner for many midmarket firms.

Making Investment Magic in the Mid-Market

Because a2e is focused on enabling the firms it invests in rather than simply profiting from them, the company is results driven and works hard to ensure that goals are achieved. As businesses grow and develop complex operations and need to cope with challenging global market conditions, the ability to implement a chosen shareholder or corporate strategy is paramount in achieving the desired results. As such, a2e’s in-house expertise is augmented by an Academy of Executives – effectively a panel of Industry Experts together with an Advisory Board. The company firmly believe this is a potent force to reckon with, as its strong track record demonstrates.

Overall, a2e Industries see great opportunity in the challenging and contrarian niche that is mid-market investment, and are committed to offering clients the very best solutions, support and products in the mid-market, which is the “engine room” of the UK economy and is often overlooked by other investors.

The firm are committed to unlocking the potential, preserve and enhance wealth by deploying its entrepreneurial flair, as augmented by a high level of expertise and involvement, and continuing to do this will remain the firm’s ongoing focus as it looks towards a bright and exciting future. a2e’s current portfolio of investments span 4 strategic divisions: Aerospace, Logistics, Industrial/ Decorative and Training. The aggregate sales and EBITDA are £130M and £13M respectively with the aim of doubling the EBITDA within 3 years.

Acquisition International - August 2017 41

1706AI02

Company: Europlaw Group Incorporated Name: Andre Vorster Email: vorster@europlaw.com Web: www.europlaw.com Address: 323 Lynnwood Road Menlo Park, Pretoria, 0181 South Africa Phone: +27 86 2000 000

The Perfect Transaction Europlaw Group is established in different countries and is a member of the International Association of Lawyers (UIA), situated in Paris, France.

Included as a part of our Africa’s Most Innovative Awards, we spoke to director of VP international operation, Andre Vorster to discover the firm’s focus and core strategy.

he holding of the group is based in London, United Kingdom. The group’s operative headquarter is based in South Africa.

Director of VP international operation, Andre Vorster begins the interview by providing an interesting introduction to the group’s work.

T

“By the senior partner concept, where lawyers, escrow agents, auditors, advocates, investment bankers, accountants and real estate experts works together in competent teams, Europlaw Group as a holding company grows constantly by adding new professional partners in new locations worldwide.

“At Europlaw Group, this is precisely what we do best. Europlaw Group takes large, unique transactions and disburses them similarly to an escrow tailored specifically for you or your business.”

“The Europlaw Group is a boutique consultancy and transaction company, focused on the implementation of capital market, escrow agent, paymaster, project funding sites, monetisation and merger & acquisitions transactions for mediumsized and larger firms. The group’s core strategy is based on a partnership concept through which experts from the fields of legal advice, asset management, paymaster, escrow services, fiduciary, audit and tax advice deliver their services.

“In terms of investors, Europlaw Group also is active as project funders and in capital raising and market funding transactions to monetise investors financial instruments, as well as assets market listed companies in capital increases, private placements and block transactions.

“Typically, the transactions are managed and implemented by the group itself. Investments are made primarily in small and medium stock market listed companies. Innovative private companies at certain stages of their growth, for example in the preparation for a planned IPO, are also financed.”

42 Acquisition International - August 2017

The group’s philosophy and different boutique approach are then underlined by Andre, in his own words.

“Europlaw Group develops and organises strategic corporate and capital transactions for our international clients and investors. We act as escrow agents, international legal advisors, paymaster and asset managers of our clients and investors. The concept secures and increases a client’s value, strengthening its equity capital throughout all business phases.

“The firm’s approach is completely different at Europlaw Group. The focus of all consulting projects is not any new or modified methods or strategies.

This counselling approach centres on a specific, desired and practical implemental transaction. To conclude, Europlaw Group is methodically working out a strategy, set by the entrepreneurs’ goals. In other words, we do not ask what possible targets could theoretically or hypothetically be achieved by a strategy, but here it is ostensibly about what strategy must be developed to reach that specific business goal.

“Europlaw Group takes two decisive steps forward.

Not only do we develop a new modified strategy, but rather coordinate on this basis the concept and the tactics, as well as the parameters and official requirements of the strategic elements.

Each project is completed with both the practical implementation and realisation of the proposed transaction.”

Europlaw Group is a recognised member of the UIA (Union Internationale des Avocats), Andre tells us. He goes on to detail the group’s impressive international affiliation status.

“International Association of Lawyers (UIA- Union Internationale des Avocats) brings together over 2000 individual members and 200 bar, federation and association members, from more than 110 countries. The UIA is open to all the world’s lawyers, both general practitioners and specialists. Its members also include legal professionals, judges, law students and teachers.

“The UIA is a multilingual and multicultural organisation and is the only major international

The Perfect Transaction

lawyers’ organisation to have adopted French, English and Spanish as its working languages.

The UIA’s membership has extensive expertise in legal matters, which means the UIA can initiate high-level debates within its technical commissions and working groups, as well as adopts resolutions on current problems faced by the legal profession throughout the world.”

In closing, Andre underlines the group’s Private Placement Programs (PPP).

“When receiving large sums of money, the firm’s clients require someone to handle the payments before it reaches their banks. Instead of hiring someone full time to cover such matters, our clients are much better served by using Europlaw Group which has plenty of experience and has an existing infrastructure for distributing large payments. When dealing with such large transactions, it is crucial that everything gets handled professionally.

“At Europlaw Group, this is precisely what we do best. Europlaw Group takes large, unique transactions and disburses them similarly to an escrow tailored specifically for you or your business. Europlaw Group has an entire team of experts on hand to ensure that your payments are received properly and legally. This makes Europlaw Group the perfect alternative to escrows.

“Not only will Europlaw Groupwork directly with you to fill your specific needs, but Europlaw Group will also charge you much less for our paymaster services than most escrow services. Furthermore, Europlaw Group does not charge any registration fees for our services, allowing you to sign up for free. The net effect is more of your money staying with you rather than getting spent on fees.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 43

1706AI22

Company: NCR Corporation Name: Bahey Thabet Email: Bahey.Thabet@ncr.com Web: www.ncr.com Address: 3097 Satellite Blvd, Bldg 700, Duluth GA 30096 USA Phone: +1-937-445-1939

A World Leader in Consumer Transaction Technologies NCR Corporation is a leader in omni-channel solutions, turning everyday interactions with businesses into exceptional experiences. Included with the 2017 Business Elite awards, we interviewed sales manager - financial services & payments technologies, Bahey Thabet to find out more about the firm’s impressive portfolio of services. ith its software, hardware and portfolio of services, NCR enables nearly 700 million transactions daily across retail, financial, travel, hospitality, telecom and technology and small business. NCR solutions run the everyday transactions that make your life easier. NCR is headquartered in Duluth, Ga., with over 30,000 employees and does business in 180 countries. NCR is a trademark of NCR Corporation in the United States and other countries.

W

““We have the courage to live our values every day; to do what’s right, even when it’s not what’s easiest or most popular and to speak up and be heard. We overcome our fears and embrace change.”

At NCR, they make the everyday easier. They do this by listening to their customers, keeping their best interests in mind and always working to make interacting with your business an exceptional experience.

Sales manager - financial services & payments technologies, Bahey Thabet begins an insightful interview, by telling us about the firm’s shared values.

“At NCR, we’re changing how people everywhere bank, shop, eat and travel. How? Simple. We run the everyday transactions that make people’s lives easier. Our software, hardware and services enable nearly 700 million transactions daily and our promise is that every interaction people have with NCR, is nothing but an exceptional experience.

“But what really makes NCR that different from other companies? Our shared values. We are leading how the world connects, interacts and transacts with business, because NCR does what we say we’ll do, so we stay accountable. As a united team, we consider a wide range of perspectives in bringing courageous new ideas to the real world,

44 Acquisition International - August 2017

making sure that everything NCR creates, benefits those we work with. Just as important as what we do - it’s what we don’t do - that tells our story.

“We never stop asking why, improving and never back down when facing tough challenges, even if that means changing. At the end of the day, it’s our actions—not our words—that truly sets NCR apart.”

Bahey then outlines to us the many qualities that make the firm successful - starting off with integrity, respect & teamwork - as well as performance.

“We are highly ethical, genuine and trustworthy.

We keep our promises and always hold ourselves accountable for our work and how it’s achieved.

“We are respectful collaborators and communicators, treating others in ways we want to be treated. NCR recognise that everyone’s contributions and understand we achieve better results, as a diverse global team, as opposed to just individuals.

“NCR are committed to driving exceptional business results and taking personal pride in everything we do. NCR have an enthusiasm for learning and growth, indeed we simply want to be and do our best, by becoming better individuals each day.”

Bahey then underlines other essential qualities of the firm, detailing the three areas of innovation, customer dedication and courage.

“NCR are constantly curious and creative. We embrace the power of new ideas and unique perspectives and courageously put them to work in the real world, every day.

“We genuinely care about the success of our internal and external customers. We partner with them to both understand their businesses and develop solutions, that deliver the highest levels of quality, service and value.

“We have the courage to live our values every day; to do what’s right, even when it’s not what’s easiest or most popular and to speak up and be heard. We overcome our fears and embrace change.”

A World Leader in Consumer Transaction Technologies

The firm’s offerings include hospitality service partners, as Bahey goes on to explain in his own words.

“NCR Authorised Service Partners are individuals and small companies who provide on-site services to NCR Hospitality customers, virtually anywhere worldwide. This extensive network of service providers can deliver a low cost, low overhead and flexible alternative to large on-site hardware support companies. All technicians have been thoroughly screened and are A+ certified or have three or more years of industry experience and are insured to carry out on-site work.

“Through extensive quality control programmes, our partner technicians are prepared to quickly and efficiently solve any hardware issue using NCR’s proven and comprehensive support methodology. This guarantees that all our customers consistently receive high-quality support, at lower costs.

“NCR Service Partners can provide the following services: contracted service calls; part swaps; multi-vendor support; troubleshooting assistance; site surveys; hardware installation; networking; installation/move/add/ change; preventative maintenance and meeting a next-flight-out part.”

In closing, Bahey then explains to us the firm’s approach concerning corporate responsibility “Responsible corporate citizenship is in our DNA. It dates to the 1890’s, when our then directors introduced a comprehensive social welfare programme, for NCR factory workers.

“Today, we take our responsibilities as a member of the global business community very seriously. We’re committed to conducting all aspects of business in an environmentally sound manner. We’re vigilant, when it comes to the safety and health of our employees. NCR also look out for the needs of our customers and the public in the communities we serve around the world.

“NCR is committed to supporting the economic, cultural, social and educational well-being of communities where the company has a significant presence, by investing in innovative programmes, approaches and solutions in the civic, arts, education and health and human services areas and developing products and solutions that provide benefit to communities at large.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 45

1706AI21

Tunji Braithwaite & Co Company: Tunji Braithwaite & Co Name: Olumide Braithwaite Email: olumide@ tunjibraithwaiteco.com info@tunjibraithwaiteco.com Web: www.tunjibraithwaiteco.com Address: 34 Okesuna Street Lagos Island, Lagos, Nigeria.

P.O. BOX 785 Phone: +234 1 775 59 81

Raise the Bar Tunji Braithwaite & Co was established in 1961 by the managing partner, Dr Tunji Braithwaite. As winner of the Leading Income Generation and Microfinance Adviser of the Year – Nigeria, we interviewed the founder to learn more about the firm’s distinguished work in the legal sector. unji Braithwaite & Co has been a distinguished and outstanding legal practice in Nigeria, for over 50 years and was at the forefront of commercial activity, following Nigeria’s Independence. Their clients include multinationals such as Swissair, (obtaining landing rights for the Airline), Julius Berger (incorporated in Nigeria by Dr Braithwaite in 1965 as they began to construct Eko Bridge), BASF; HOESCHT (both German chemical conglomerates), Carrara Marble Co and Weide & Co.

T

Dr Olumide Braithwaite is a Member of Lincoln’s Inn London and was called to the English Bar in 1959 and today he is the managing partner of the firm. He kicks things off by revealing the firm’s aims and his own areas of expertise.

“Tunji Braithwaite & Co continues to gain prominence for its unwavering commitment to the highest standards of quality and integrity, in the provision of legal services to our clients.”

“Tunji Braithwaite & Co continues to gain prominence for its unwavering commitment to the highest standards of quality and integrity, in the provision of legal services to our clients.

“I am the managing partner of the firm, with wide ranging experience in practice, both as an effective litigator and in non-contentious matters. I have a considerable wealth of experience in advising on foreign investment, IP, banking & finance and oil & gas transactions. I have also acted for several notable sports personalities negotiating favourable contracts with international football clubs. I am registered member of the Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission.

The firm’s practice areas include banking and finance, Olumide tells us. He explains more about this aspect of the firm’s work and shares his thoughts on commercial litigation, as well as alternative dispute resolution.

“The firm’s banking and finance department provides transactional and advisory services to clients.

We provide advice in the areas of securitization, trade finance and international capital markets,

46 Acquisition International - August 2017

projects, global depositories, asset finance and collective investments securities, foreign exchange regulations and hedging mechanisms, syndicated and bilateral lending, leveraged finance, private placements and recapitalisations. The firm’s clients include investment and commercial borrowers and lenders. We also act for international banking houses, advising them on lending within Nigeria and internationally.

“I am a renowned litigator and my reputation precedes me. The firm is therefore able to draw on my considerable expertise, to provide unmatched services to clients on all aspects of commercial litigation. We can act effectively and successfully on behalf of clients, particularly in managing complex multi-faceted matters, involving several claims and parties.

“The firm also recognises that in the best interests of clients, disputes where possible should be quickly and effectively resolved, without recourse to the courts. As such, we offer clients an alternative dispute resolution service, that meets their needs.”

Tunji Braithwaite & Co also looks at corporate and commercial, as well as intellectual property, Olumide adds.

“The firm’s corporate department offers a marketleading capability on public and private mergers, acquisitions, corporate restructurings, projects, joint ventures and more. Within this department, the firm has a wealth of expertise in capital markets and we can offer clients a broad spectrum of services and advice on investment law. Added to this, where necessary we can provide representation at the Investment and Securities Tribunal. We also provide a full company secretarial service, together with advice on all aspects of company formation and operation.

“On intellectual property, we provide a full range of services in the protection of such rights, ideas, concepts, trade names, trademarks, patents, copyright, licensing and franchising. From searching to registration to use and enforcement and where necessary, litigation upon infringement, the firm can provide a complete service to clients in the both use and protection of their assets.”

In terms of project finance, the firm’s lawyers have been advising around this area for some time, Olumide points out.

“We have therefore built up considerable expertise in a wide range of jurisdictions. We engage mainly

Raise the Bar

in transactions involving all legal issues affecting the establishment, operation and management of wide ranging projects in the fields of international construction, engineering, gas exploration, development and production, solid mineral extraction, co-operative communal agricultural and other earth resources based industries.

“The firm provides services which fully support these projects including advising on access to international financing institutions, the preparation of financing agreements and constituting an effective legal structure for the operation of these projects.”

As a closing thought, it is well worth mentioning other practice areas that the firm specialises in. You can read more about these on their website, but here is a short summary: • Real estate - The firm provides comprehensive advice and representation on all aspects of real estate finance, acquisition, disposal and management.

• Shipping - The firm has experience in providing professional services to major operators in the maritime and admiralty sector.

• Telecommunications - The firm is well placed to provide the necessary legal expertise required by clients to continue to be market leaders in this area.

Acquisition International - August 2017 47

1706AI24

Company: Archina Design Ltd. Name: Ing.arch. Ivo Nahálka Email: nahalka@archina.cz Web: www.archina.cz Address: Jungmannova street 748/30, 110 00 Prague 1, Czech Republic Phone: +420 602 275 978

Unique, Outstanding and Memorable Archina is a full-service architecture and design firm, specialising in hospitality related buildings. We caught up with founder Ivo Nahálka to learn more, hot on the heels of the firm’s 2017 Business Elite Award win. stablished in 1992, Archina was developed to create a design firm, to offer clients a complete range of design services. Archina’s work cuts across all sectors, including design, structural, construction, mechanical and electrical installation. The firm has completed several projects in Czech and Slovak republic, as well as other European cities such as Zagreb, Walbrzych, Paris, Sofia and Moscow.

E

As the founder of the firm, Ing.Arch. Ivo Nahálka has started his professional career in 1985, on the original Hotel Forum Prague which has almost 1000 rooms. Added to this, the firm has completed more than 30 such projects, over a period of no less than 25 years.

“For me, the most important aspect of architecture is beauty itself. Real beauty lasts forever and forms an expression of love for a place, creating something which everyone can adore for many years in the future.

It is Ivo’s focus on creating visually glorious projects, which has helped the firm to achieve its current success, as he explains. As the interview begins, he reveals more about the firm’s work and their approach to architecture.

“In addition to our work on hospitality buildings, we have also worked on office and commercial centres, residential buildings and private houses. A very special type of building we worked on is evidenced through our long-term cooperation with Czech Airlines, which involved different types of airport and city buildings in Prague, Paris, Sofia and Moscow.

“The result of this synergy, is a unique combination of undertaking the complete architectural and construction design service, as well as interior design in individual homes. Our expertise around hospitality buildings, benefits clients due to the firm’s expert knowledge of international hotel standards that Intercontinental, Marriott, Rezidor, Accor, Hilton and other such hotel groups adhere to.

“In addition to these services, the firm is undertaking our own graphic design work, as well as 3D rendering, procurement and site management for

48 Acquisition International - August 2017

both construction and interior works. One of our hospitality related projects, is the Radisson SAS Prague, which received the first prize for the best European Hotel in 1999. In addition, the Café Imperial Prague has been selected as one of 10 most beautiful café restaurants around the world, among others.

“For me, the most important aspect of architecture is beauty itself. Real beauty lasts forever and forms an expression of love for a place, creating something which everyone can adore for many years in the future. I believe, that the creation of such architecture, will lead to a successful business, so my focus is always on beauty over business.”

Drawing on over 25 years’ experience, Ivo has developed a formidable reputation for excellence, indeed he is now keen to give back to the industry and raise a new generation of architects with their own, individual ideas. On winning the 2017 Business Elite Award, Ivo says he is delighted to be recognised, following the firm’s hard work for over 24 years.

“Today, we already have a generation of the designers here, who have learned precisely how to create architecture. Each member plays an important role in terms of following how we undertake the design of each project, to ensure it is always unique, outstanding and memorable.

“My wife is the shareholder of the business and an interior designer, indeed she works with me on most of the hotel interior designs. Together, we have the motivation to continue with our design work to create another beautiful hotel. I am very happy about receiving the 2017 Business Elite Award, as the firm’s founder and main architect. It shows that our long-term experience in hospitality projects has paid off. “ On what sets the business apart from others who offer the same services, Ivo underlines that there are two factors at play in this regard.

“Firstly, the fact that we have been creating designs of hospitality buildings and their interiors for many years, sets us apart. Secondly, our individual architectural and interior design style is based on the spirit of a beauty, with inspiration found in nature, so in this respect we can cooperate with other art disciplines. The result of this creative approach is that each project we work on is unique, unforgettable, outstanding, full of elegance, colour, detail and beauty.”

Unique, Outstanding and Memorable

Ivo then points to examples of how the business is succeeding, plus he outlines the vital role of team in the success of the firm.

“Our business is not a real one, indeed for me to create any type of architecture, I need the talent to achieve that. Nobody can learn this, as it is either there or not, in line with all other art professions.

For me, the most important element in architecture is the quality of beauty, which is without any limits of time and space.

“Today, we already have a young generation of designers working for the firm, who have learned how to create architecture. Each member of our staff therefore plays an important role, in terms of how we undertake project design, to create something that is always unique, outstanding and memorable.”

In his concluding comments, Ivo emphasises the firm’s ongoing focus on creating visually stunning projects, which will stand the test of time.

“Looking back over the 25 years of the firm’s history, I am sure that our approach to creating the most beautiful architecture and design is the right one. After many years, I believe that our completed buildings or interiors stand the test of time and form a legacy of excellence. As such, we will continue to use this approach, to ensure that we go down in history as the creators of nothing less than truly stunning architecture.

“During the last five years, we have worked on some truly extraordinary projects in the hospitality sector, so moving forward Archina Design Ltd. are keen to continue this and work on more tremendous projects which will help us achieve our aim.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 49

1706AI39

Company: Shook, Hardy & Bacon L.L.P. Name: William C. Martucci Email: WMARTUCCI@shb.com Web: www.shb.com Address: 1155 F Street NW, Suite 200, Washington, D.C. 20004 Phone: +1 202 783 8400

Achieving Legal Excellence For more than a century, the world’s leading companies have turned to Shook, Hardy & Bacon (Shook) to obtain favourable results under the most contentious circumstances. The firm was delighted to receive the Leading Litigator of the Year – USA, within the Leading Adviser 2017 Awards. To mark this success, we spoke to the firm’s partner to get a flavour of what they do. hook, Hardy & Bacon’s (Shook) clients expect more than wins. They engage Shook, both inside and outside the courtroom, to protect their business investments and maximise opportunities for growth. At Shook, we believe that legal excellence begins and ends with relationships, founded on creative and practical solutions. Our attorneys approach every challenge with integrity, tenacity and collegiality to achieve the best results for those we represent. Our motto is: Providing creative and practical solutions at unsurpassed value. ®

S

“Our attorneys approach every challenge with integrity, tenacity and collegiality to achieve the best results for those we represent. Our motto is: Providing creative and practical solutions at unsurpassed value.®” Integrated legal services Shook, Hardy & Bacon’s reputation as an international powerhouse, is founded on longstanding collaborations with industry leaders in science, health and technology.

Working at the intersection of litigation, regulation and public policy, our attorneys stay ahead of emerging issues to help companies execute their long-term objectives. We not only understand the business partners and their people, products and processes, but leverage this institutional knowledge to ensure consistency and accountability, no matter the size or complexity of the engagement.

The firm’s teams work closely with in-house counsel, to respond to litigation threats and anticipate future trends. We assist with regulatory compliance, information security and privacy issues and corporate reviews to defuse contentious legal scenarios and promote overall operative efficiency.

With access to the firm’s arsenal of complex litigation experience, scientific and technical knowledge and state-of-the-art litigation management tools, our

50 Acquisition International - August 2017

clients also benefit from the latest in e-discovery, data tracking and retention technology.

Alternative fee arrangements Shook believes that the clients are best served by open discussions around fee structures. To this end, we offer many options for financial arrangements not tied to the billable hour, including fixed fees, capped fees, performance-based fees and blended hourly rates. They are popular, because they provide transparency and predictability, indeed these arrangements are structured to produce results that will exceed client expectations.

• Annual Fixed Fees: We have negotiated fixed-fee agreements with leading companies in such areas as class actions, product liability, general liability, employment and business litigation. The fixed-fee model can be applied to a single matter, portfolio of matters, or even certain phases of litigation.

• Capped (‘not-to-exceed’) Fee: Under this framework, litigation is divided into phases, with a not-to-exceed dollar amount set for each phase. If the total monthly billings for a phase are less than the not-to-exceed amount, the unused portion may be carried over to increase the not-to-exceed amount for the next phase.

• Performance-based billing: We use a modified performance-based billing approach with some of our national litigation clients.

Under this arrangement, the matters are billed at standard hourly rates, but a portion of the fee is held back based on the outcome.

• Blended hourly rates: Blended rates are available for certain litigation phases or entire cases.

• Per-page pricing: We have used per-page pricing for document review projects.

Diversity and inclusion Diversity is an essential component of the firm’s vision statement, which provides in part, that Shook, Hardy & Bacon is deeply passionate about sustaining: “A diverse environment where everyone is respected, feels appreciated and experiences fulfilment and enjoyment through meaningful contributions.” The firm’s equal opportunity policy explicitly bars discrimination based on gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression and domestic partner benefits apply to same-sex relationships.

Achieving Legal Excellence

Shook works with clients to make significant progress in the recruitment and advancement of attorneys from diverse backgrounds. The firm is actively involved with the Minority Corporate Counsel Association and is a supporter of A Call to Action: Diversity in the Legal Profession. Shook is also a member of the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity and the Institute for Inclusion in the Legal Profession, national organisations dedicated to improving diversity and inclusion in the legal arena.

Law school workshops - Shook partners with student organisations such as the National Black Law Students Association on programmes that offer practical advice on improving resumes and interviewing skills.

Diversity job fair recruiting - Shook recruits at such events across the nation, including the Heartland Diversity Job Fair, DuPont Minority Job Fair, Lavender Law Job Fair, Cook County Minority Job Fair and South-Eastern Minority Job Fair.

Women’s Management Council - This proactive group of Shook women partners serves as a catalyst for programmes targeting the unique challenges facing women practitioners.

Educational programming - Shook’s diversity and inclusion committee spearheads diversitythemed presentations throughout the year, for both attorneys and staff. Recent programmes have included those focusing on increasing awareness of implicit bias, cultural competency, generational diversity and trans inclusion and luncheons featuring Shook alumnae in the judiciary, LGBT issues, native American/tribal law issues and parenting diversity-sensitive children.

Diversity and inclusion checklist - Shook requires every attorney to personally commit to diversity, as a core value. To help achieve the firm’s diversity goals, all attorneys are required to complete at least 10 diversity commitment action items from the firm’s Diversity and Inclusion Checklist, as part of the annual evaluation and compensation process.

Acquisition International - August 2017 51

1707AI13

Company: Walker Morris LLP Email: andrew.northage@ walkermorris.co.uk Web: www.walkermorris.co.uk Address: Kings Court, 12 Kings Street, Leeds LS1 2HL UK Phone: +44 (0)113 283 2500

High-Calibre Legal Advice Walker Morris occupies a distinctive position as the largest single-site UK commercial law firm outside London. The firm was selected as the Leading Risk and Compliance Adviser of the Year – UK, as part of the Leading Adviser Awards 2017. We invited Andrew Northage, partner in the Regulatory & Compliance Group at law firm Walker Morris LLP to tell us more about the range of the firm’s work, in providing straightforward legal advice. ith a staff of over 450 including 49 partners, Walker Morris is uniquely recognised for its strong multi-disciplinary teamwork and straightforward advice. It is a full-service, commercial law firm focused on providing national and international clients with partner-led, high-quality advice. The firm acts for an enviable range of clients including regional, national and international organisations in both the public and private sector.

W

“We are honoured to receive this award which recognises our investment and commitment to this specialist area of legal expertise.”

Walker Morris offers a full range of commercial expertise including: banking, restructuring & insolvency; commercial contracts; competition & state aid; construction & engineering; consumer finance; education; employment & pensions; environment; financial services; healthcare; food & drink; government; health & safety; housing & regeneration; infrastructure; insurance litigation; intellectual property; M&A; public sector; planning; procurement; regeneration; regulatory & compliance; technology and media & telecoms.

Andrew began the interview by revealing the firm’s partner-led work, their approach to clients and something of their background in the legal industry.

“We offer clients truly accessible partners who get the job right, providing partner-led advice based on their knowledge and understanding of working with individual clients. It’s why over 90% of our partners are recognised in Chambers and Legal 500 for their expertise.

“Walker Morris was formed in May 1988 although it can trace its origins back to the 1880s in Leeds.

We have specifically chosen to create a single-site, national centre of excellence in Leeds providing a complete commercial legal service for its regional, national and international clients.

52 Acquisition International - August 2017

“For our clients, this means efficiency and cost effectiveness from a single location office where lawyers are focused on working on our clients’ behalf. We deliver the right result and share best practice and process efficiencies within Walker Morris and with clients. We build long term relationships with clients and it is one of the reasons why 54% of our top 50 clients have been clients for 10 years or more.”

Andrew is eager to reveal how it feels for the firm to be selected as the Leading Risk and Compliance Adviser of the Year – UK, as part of the Leading Adviser Awards 2017.

“The Walker Morris Regulatory & Compliance Team is delighted to be named as winners of the ‘Leading Risk and Compliance Adviser of the Year – UK’ in the AI Leading Adviser Awards 2017. Receiving this award is testament to the team’s commitment and client focus and we are grateful to everyone who voted for us.

“We are honoured to receive this award which recognises our investment and commitment to this specialist area of legal expertise.”

Andrew sketched the wider industry challenges Walker Morris faces in the UK. “Recent developments in the data protection landscape, particularly the implementation of the GDPR and the EU-US Privacy Shield mean that this is a key time for businesses to ensure their regulatory requirements are in order.

“In less than 12 months’ time, the new EU-wide data protection regime comes into force. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) introduces key changes, including new and enhanced rights for individuals, specific legal obligations on data processors, obligations to notify data breaches, fines up to the greatest of 4% of annual global turnover or €20 million, and detailed record-keeping requirements. The implementation of GDPR in the UK is unaffected by Brexit, and there is no transitional period, which means that businesses must be compliant by 25 May 2018.”

Andrew highlighted what expertise Walker Morris LLP can offer to potential clients in the future.

High-Calibre Legal Advice

“Clients receive first class, partner-led, commercial advice from a responsive team of talented lawyers who are committed to achieving the right outcomes for them. Our expertise covers a wide range of specialisms and industry sectors, but one example is our data protection experts, who can assist organisations with all aspects of GDPR compliance from data mapping to implementing a compliance strategy.

“For some organisations, we have been helping them with a full information audit (including a data mapping exercise) and gap analysis. This service includes review existing consents, processes and records and identifying and review any contracts with third parties, where data processing is a relevant consideration. For other organisations, we have been checking that their processes and policies are compliant and assisting with staff training, to ensure they understand the requirements of the legislation.”

Closing on a note of optimism, Andrew reveals the role that staff play in the success of Walker Morris LLP. “Our investment in recruiting high-calibre, specialist lawyers span several decades and has manifested itself in the emergence of several specialist legal practice areas, many of which are unique for a law firm outside London. For example, we have dedicated legal practices in financial services, consumer finance, regulatory, competition, retail, sports law, waste and energy, and healthcare, as well as a dedicated trademarks practice.

“This means our clients have access to the highest quality, leading edge lawyers, who have strong commercial awareness and who understand the clients’ business. Our clients benefit from the firm’s investment in multi-disciplinary sector groups focused on their requirements.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 53

1706AI42

Company: T.P. Ostwal & Associates LLP Chartered Accountants Name: Siddharth Banwat Email: itax@tpostwal.in Web: www.tpostwal.in Address: Lodha Supremus, 13th floor, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai 400 013, India Phone: +91 (22) 4945 4000

Innovative Tax and Regulatory Solutions T.P. Ostwal & Associates LLP Chartered Accountants is a premier professional services firm, who recently were given the prestigious Leading Tax Adviser of the Year - India accolade, as part of the Leading Adviser 2017 Awards. To celebrate their selection, we interviewed the firm’s partner, Siddharth Banwat to learn more about the high-quality services offered. .P. Ostwal & Associates LLP Chartered Accountants is focused on providing high-quality services to its clients in the tax, consulting and regulatory domains.

In this vein, the firm intends to add value, by blending practical business advice with consulting, tax and regulatory inputs.

T

The firm’s partner, Siddharth Banwat conveys to us the wide range of services offered, the seasoned members of staff on hand and the focus on ensuring that the client is always satisfied.

The firm’s mission statement is simply: “Client satisfaction through our efficient and high quality services”, Siddharth tells us. He goes on to develop this core aspect of the firm’s work.

“The firm is engaged in providing wide spectrum of services in the areas of inbound and outbound investment consultancy, corporate laws consultancy, audit and investigations, management consultancy, exchange control regulations related consultancy, consultancy and compliance services on mergers & acquisitions, foreign collaborations, domestic taxation, international taxation - strategic planning & compliance and service tax matters.

“We have developed expertise in these areas over the years with hand on experience. The firm has requisite qualified staff and resources - to provide highly reliable services to clients. Our existing client profile, includes domestic clients and foreign clients, both corporate as well as noncorporate. The guiding philosophy of the firm is to render specialised and tailor made services, to help achieve the client’s objective with maximum efficiency and minimum cost.

“The firm expects to realise this vision, by always placing the client’s needs at the front and centre, hiring the best professionals, investing continuously in their personal and professional development and adhering rigorously to a set of values that are at the core of everything we do.”

54 Acquisition International - August 2017

The firm’s mission statement is simply: “Client satisfaction through our efficient and high quality services”, Siddharth tells us. He goes on to develop this core aspect of the firm’s work.

“We believe that what clients truly value is sound technical advice - delivered in the context of their business or commercial situation - advice that is not only technically sound, but which is also practical, effective and implementable. This requires going beyond the specific tax or regulatory issue to understanding the underlying business transaction and imperatives - then applying an understanding of the tax and regulatory framework - to fashion a solution that works.

“T.P. Ostwal & Associates LLP Chartered Accountants equally believes, that we will gain and retain the client’s confidence, only when can provide such advice consistently, from engagement to engagement, from one year to the next. We are passionately committed to doing so.”

Siddharth then turns the conversation towards the firm’s core values of integrity, passion for excellence, stewardship and personal growth.

“T.P. Ostwal & Associates LLP Chartered Accountants is committed to maintaining integrity in our efforts, commitments to clients, people and conduct. We are committed to working with the best clients, hiring the best people, providing the best environment, encouraging innovation and creativity and delivering consistent, high quality value-added services.

“The firm is committed to an organisational philosophy. By this, I mean that the role of all partners and people, is to build the T.P. Ostwal & Associates LLP Chartered Accountants while we are a part of it and leave behind a firm, that is stronger and better than when we first associated with it.

“We are committed to an environment that continually fosters both the personal and professional growth, of all our people. We achieve this by providing a best-in-class work environment, through ongoing investment in technical and professional development, providing challenging professional opportunities to our people as well as consistently living the firm’s values.”

Innovative Tax and Regulatory Solutions

Strategy In today’s environment, the tax and regulatory function must contribute to financial performance of a firm like any other part functions, Siddharth adds.

“This is vital at a time when opportunities, as well as threats, are coming from so many different directions. Markets are opening around the world.

Global, multilateral and bilateral trade pacts continually influence market and supply chain structures. Delivery channels are multiplying, with many removing barriers to entry. Corporates are increasingly pursuing market space, through mergers, acquisitions and alliances.

“As ownership and operations spread cross borders, the complexity of tax and regulatory compliances grows exponentially. Managing this complexity goes well beyond tax and regulatory compliance planning, we believe.

“The benefits of using tax to an organisation’s competitive advantage, are too important to underestimate. The ability to capitalise on low effective tax rates, whether domestically or across multiple jurisdictions, can directly impact market valuation. How tax is treated in a transaction can be critical in determining the success of a new venture.

“Tax, in other words, can no longer be treated as an afterthought; it has to be an integral part of an organisations concerned with forward planning.

The ability to minimise tax and maximise value, depends on ability to implement a forward-looking tax strategy. Moreover, to be successful, the speed at which ideas are put into action is critical.”

In closing, Siddharth explains how the firm truly puts ideas to work.

“We continually strive to look beyond the obvious and challenge conventional thought, to craft innovative tax and regulatory solutions. At the same time, we firmly believe that every idea is only as good as its effective implementation and as such, we are focused on putting ideas to work for clients.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 55

1707AI01

London Calling Company: Bruton of Sloane Street Name: Andrew Kafkaris Email: info@ brutonofsloanestreet.co.uk Web: brutonofsloanestreet.co.uk Address: 121 Sloane Street, Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 9BW UK Phone: +44 (0)20 7495 5858

Bruton of Sloane Street is a luxury division of Bruton Street Management, which has assets under management worth £1 billion and development projects with a combined value of over £2 billion. Following their selection in the 2017 Business Elite Awards, we interviewed Andrew Kafkaris to discover more about this London-centric company.

ruton of Sloane Street is regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and is the only company of its kind to have a team comprising qualified Chartered Surveyors, serving the needs of developers and buyers of London’s high value new-build properties. Andrew Kafkaris starts by explaining the company’s role in the London property market and what they set out to achieve.

B

•

• •

“We currently manage 24 estates across central London and maintain one of the lowest propertyto-manager ratios at 300 dwellings per estate manager.

“It’s a great honour to be recognised as one of the leaders in the property industry, dedicated to providing exceptional services.”

“At Bruton of Sloane Street, we combine expert property consultancy with exceptional estate management and tailored lifestyle services. From ensuring maximum personal safety and security to the bespoke management of domestic requests, no request is too small or too challenging. Through our extensive network nurtured overtime, Bruton of Sloane Street also gives residents and their guests exclusive access to the very best of London through its new and exclusive Chatelaine service.

“This includes providing access to the capital’s most exclusive cultural events, as well as home and lifestyle management such as sommelier and wine cellaring, yoga and personal training, private travel services, education and art consultancy.

“Bruton of Sloane Street’s principle aim is to enhance the value of the properties we manage and provide services designed to integrate seamlessly with modern living and security requirements.”

The company’s clients include: • Hempel Gardens, a joint venture development

by Amazon Property and British Land, consisting of 33 private residences overlooking one of London’s most famous garden squares; • Burlington Gate: Native Land, comprising 42 luxury residences in the heart of the fashion and arts district of Mayfair, with five 56 Acquisition International - August 2017

fine art galleries that will link Cork Street to Old Burlington Street - the newest arcade in London for a century; Ten Trinity Square, the landmark Reignwood development of a Grade II-listed City of London building, which was opened in 1922 as the headquarters of the Port of London Authority and; Luxx – 15 Fitzhardinge Street, a luxury residential development in Marylebone; Bruton of Sloane Street has recently undertaken major restoration projects this year, including The Sloane Stanley Estate and Ealing Village, a Grade II listed Art Deco estate in West London.

When undertaking a new client or project, Andrew explains the company’s approach.

“When undertaking a new client or project, acknowledging their bespoke needs is at the forefront of our approach. We curate services designed to suit the unique requirements of each client or project. Early consultation is the best way to ensure, right from the start, that the outcome meets the needs of everyone involved. Intricate steps are taken at every stage of providing each of our services.

“For example, development consultancy includes working with the design team and reviewing specifications, to ensure all operational aspects of the property are maximised. Service charge consultancy includes the evaluation of specification, finishes and layouts to make sure an accurate service charge budget is provided to the sales team.

“Our lease consultancy service relies on Bruton of Sloane Street’s knowledge of residential and tenant law, as well as our ability to ensure the lease accurately reflects the building design and services.

Sales information pack designs are created with the developer’s legal team, to ensure all information is complete and replies accurately to enquiries, contributing to both fast and reliable sales.”

Andrew then turns his thoughts towards the state of the wider property management industry and the attributes that make Bruton of Sloane Street successful.

“The property management industry as a whole, quite rightly, finds itself under the spotlight in terms of safety and security following the tragic events at Grenfell Tower in London, which will lead to a great deal of introspection and review of priorities

London Calling

over the months to come. I’ve long held the view that standards are too low across the residential management industry and have advocated greater skills for managers, that can only be delivered with higher training standards.

“Integrity is an essential quality to ensure success in the property management industry today. At Bruton of Sloane Street, we pride ourselves on being trusted advisors winning repeat business through word of mouth and recommendations by a loyal clientele base.

Andrew then shares his reflection on the company being selected in the 2017 Business Elite Awards and the specific challenges and opportunities he has faced during his time at the company. He also details the importance of attracting the right talent to work at Bruton of Sloane Street.

“It’s a great honour to be recognised as one of the leaders in the property industry, dedicated to providing exceptional services.”

“Prime Central London has long been a melting pot of cultures, one of the most exciting places on earth to live and work and a magnet for the world’s business elite. There is strong and growing demand for solid, dependable and seamless property management, that offers complete peace of mind to property owners that their asset is being carefully preserved and its financial performance optimised. This is what we offer our clients. Yes, we can arrange a personal trainer or a helicopter if that’s what they need, but ultimately our USP is our unrivalled knowledge of maintaining and managing London’s finest buildings so that they run seamlessly.

“Building a stellar team requires not just recruiting, but also retaining the brightest talent in the property industry. We now have a team with over 90 years of combined property experience and extensive residential management and consultancy expertise, with all members either RICS qualified or undertaking their articles.”

Finally, Andrew reveals the firm’s exciting plans.

“We are launching Native Land’s Burlington Gate, Mayfair this year which marks a threeyear consultancy project. Beyond that, we aim to develop our mixed-use consultancy practice and make further inroads into the PRS through our investment division, Bruton Realty.

“As well as extending our platforms into the private rented sector, growth over the next 10-20 years will be led by London’s eastern districts. There will be an increasing level of activity at the eastern fringe of the city, the area running from Old Street Roundabout, south of Spitalfields Market. It was cheap office space that initially drew tech start-ups, designers and media companies priced out of Soho and Southbank, eastwards.

“We opened our city office last year, to adapt to business growth towards the east. This followed our development consultancy work with Chinese developer, Reignwood Investments who, in partnership with Four Seasons, have created the Four Seasons Private Residences at Ten Trinity Square, right at the gateway to eastern edge of the city.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 57

1708AI40

Company: 2b Limitless FZC Name: Michael ‘Mick’ Todd Email: mick@2blimitless.com, info@2blimitless.com Web: www.2blimitless.com Address: Dubai - International Media Production Zone, PO Box 392862 Dubai, UAE Sharjah - SAIF Zone Suite, Office Q1-2-008, PO Box 120322 Sharjah, UAE Phone: +9714 5144026 (Office) +971 56 4662860 (Mobile) +971 50 1535213 (Direct)

Delivering Excellence in Performance 2b Limitless is a multi-award winning professional coaching and training organisation, focused on strengths, engagement, performance and transformation. As a proud winner of the exclusive 2017 Best in Executive Coaching Award – UAE, we interviewed founder, Michael ‘Mick’ Todd to find out about the firm’s targeted training and workshops offered.

Limitless are focused on Csuite executives, senior leaders, entrepreneurial leaders and high performance teams. With offices in Dubai, Phuket and Brisbane, their core business is built around executive coaching programmes and their 2BYB international goal-setting events.

2b Limitless also delivers targeted training and workshops around strengths, goals, strategy, purpose, vision & values, as well as extraordinary success.

2b

“It is a great feeling to win an award once, but to be honoured again reinforces that we are living true to our values. It is also a reminder of how fortunate we are to work with so many marvellous clients.”

The firm’s key services are as follows: • Executive coaching; • Strategic development & goal setting; • Strengths – based leadership & management development; • 2byb goal setting international workshop; o Gallup StrengthsFinder® Certified Coaches; o SEI emotional intelligence practitioners and; o ICF coaches.

The firm works with innovators, influencers and entrepreneurs at the C-suite, ownership, board and executive level - their clients include some of the world’s most iconic organisations and leaders. They work in a wide range of industries, but their teams targeted niche consists of the following areas: • Oil & Gas; • Aviation; • Hospitality; • Banking; • Legal Services and; • Healthcare.

Founder, Michael ‘Mick’ Todd, starts the interview by revealing the firm’s approach when undertaking a new client or project in today’s modern business landscape. He also shares with us the important and ongoing strategy of 2b Limitless.

58 Acquisition International - August 2017

“The pace of change on the modern business landscape is staggering. Leaders are faced with an unprecedented number of real time decisions, that have far reaching ramifications for clients, employees and shareholders. Having real clarity of purpose, objectives, goals and the rituals and behaviours – that will deliver performance that leads to a meaningful impact - are critical components of the modern leaders’ toolbox today.

“As the business continues to become increasingly complex, a leader’s ability to simplify and identify the true priorities, take agile action and make a meaningful impact is key. That is where we come in and help leaders, to develop a roadmap and the tools that they need, to deliver excellence in performance.

“2017 has seen 2b Limitless grow significantly, as an organisation based around both the quality of our team and the outstanding achievements of the clients. We have assembled our strongest ever team, that delivers excellence across a broad spectrum of both personal and professional success. We are focused on the expanding of the client base in Hong Kong, Singapore and Australia, specifically through the firm’s three core offerings of coaching, training and 2byb.”

In summary, the firm’s complete coaching and training offering is offered through the following members of the team. Indeed, these outstanding professionals have given 2b Limitless the bandwidth and skills to deliver in an elegant manner, that better supports the needs of the client: • Mick Todd – Founder, Senior Executive Success, Leadership & Strengths Coach; • David Labouchere OBE – ‘The Art of the Possible’, Strategy & Change; • Sacha Fitch – Executive Strengths, Leadership Consultant Facilitator; • Mark Bradley – Executive Coach, Certified Strengths Coach; • Brian Clarke – Leadership Development Coach; • Kim Page – Communication & Influence Coach and Trainer; • Heidi Jones – Health & Wellness Coach; • Jason Grange – ‘The Art of the Possible’ Facilitator and; • Bronwyn Byrnes – Corporate Role Play.

Michael then tells us how does it feel to receive the exclusive 2017 Best in Executive Coaching Award – UAE and his thoughts on the wider industry at present.

Delivering Excellence in Performance

2b Limitless testimonials “The coaching with Mick helped me focus on my goals, my strengths and to be consistent.

It transformed my life, privately as well as in business.”

Abdul-Aziz Al-Yaqout, CEO Al-Yaqout Group, Dubai & Kuwait.

“Mick Todd has a contagious persona which is ideally suited to working with teams and in our case harnessing the cultural shift required as the business of managing hotels, in an increasingly competitive environment continues to call for evolution and innovative mindsets. I have enjoyed working with Mick both professionally and personally as much of what is relevant to professional growth, is also in some ways relevant to personal development to make people better human beings, at least that is the case in my own experience working with Mick!”

Shaun Parsons, general manager, Le Meridien, Dubai.

“Our team would not have experienced the success that it has achieved without our partnership with 2B Limitless. Mick and the 2B Limitless team have helped our team to develop stronger relationships both amongst ourselves and with our partners. Our classification as a ‘high performing team’, owes a huge debt of gratitude to Mick and his team.”

Simon Copleston, Group General Counsel & Board Secretary, ADCB – Abu Dhabi.

Acquisition International - August 2017 59

“It is a great feeling to win an award once, but to be honoured again reinforces that we are living true to our values. It is also a reminder of how fortunate we are to work with so many marvellous clients.

“It is recognition of the standards, that we measure ourselves against and an opportunity to reflect and celebrate the great achievements of the clients, as this exclusive award is also a chance for us to both engage and celebrate them.

“We think that our firm is very fortunate to be leading the coaching revolution today. There are so many outstanding coaches today, who deliver excellence in the field. We urge clients to do their research when selecting a coach, both in terms of qualifications and qualified referrals. We believe this is a genuine USP for 2b Limitless based on the experience, qualifications and impact of the firm’s coaches.”

Michael then highlights that the essential attributes to achieving success in the industry are: empathy, curiosity, courage, integrity and excitement. He goes on to develop this interesting point, before detailing the challenges he has encountered in his current role.

“These are key as they not only drive change they help sustain it. Nobody ever comes to us asking, ‘can you help me be average?’ We work with the extraordinary and it is our firm’s experience that the above attributes help drive strengths, engagement and performance.

“Interestingly, our biggest challenge was growing the team. We are so committed to the clients, that the quality of our coaches and trainers is always the firm’s number one consideration. It has taken time, but 2b Limitless now feels like we have built a community of outstanding coaches, who deliver and support each other and clients in a collaborative way.”

60 Acquisition International - August 2017

Michael then reveals how he manages the team and ensures that an atmosphere conducive to a productive working environment is achieved.

“One of firm’s key values is ‘integrity’ so we look to manage the team in the same way that we support our clients, through a strengths-based approach (all our team have completed Gallup StrengthsFinder®, which is at the heart of the firm’s approach).

“As such, we look to focus on what they do best, engagement-focused and 1-1 discussions are at the heart of building understanding. The firm are also performance-oriented, so we set goals, track performance and look to overcome barriers and celebrate success.”

In closing, Michael spills the beans on his future aspirations for the business, in his own words.

“The firm’s focus is growth across all our key markets, success measures and programmes. The firm are building plans to develop a centre of excellence, so we can offer pathways and standardised coaching process. We are also looking to enhance the firm’s stand alone high performance coaching and training facility in Phuket, to offer the clients an unrivalled coaching and goal setting retreat through our 2BYB (To Be Your Best) process, so 2017 promises to be another amazing year at 2b Limitless.

“In terms of the wider industry sector, there is certainly a massive global movement towards developing experiences, rather than services or events. We feel like we are ahead of the curve through events like 2byb and the development of our HOST Leadership programme. We feel like 2b Limitless are developing unique programmes, that surprise and delight the clients, as well as motivating them towards sustainable success and achievement.”

Delivering Excellence in Performance

Acquisition International - August 2017 61

MA170046

Company: MoneySoft, Inc. Name: Robert B. Machiz Email: Machiz@moneysoft.com Web: www.moneysoft.com Address: 1 E Washington Street, Suite 500, Phoenix, AZ 85004 USA Phone: +1 602 266 7710

Remaining Competitive and Profitable MoneySoft publishes software productivity tools in the areas of business valuation, mergers and acquisitions, financial analysis and fixed asset accounting and control. We spoke to Robert Machiz to learn more about the firm and the solutions it provides, to celebrate their success in receiving the exclusive Best M&A Software Publisher – USA accolade.

stablished in 1991, MoneySoft publishes software productivity tools for practitioners in areas of business valuation, mergers and acquisitions, financial analysis and fixed asset accounting and control. Robert B. Machiz outlines to us the type of clients the firm works with and the services they provide to them.

E

“MoneySoft works with middle-market buyers and intermediaries, as well as business valuation professionals to provide them with financial software productivity tools that streamline the process of normalising and analysing financial statement data, preparing forward-looking statements, valuing and pricing a company and evaluating the ROI based on comprehensive post-closing assumptions.

“The M&A market is robust and competitive.

Remaining competitive and profitable requires the adoption of technology to streamline workflow and perform more thorough pre-sale due diligence, to minimise downstream surprises.

“Failure to perform a robust pre-sale diligence can lead to surprises. which can result in price adjustments, escrowed proceeds and stringent contract terms. In some cases, surprises ‘discovered’, in deal due diligence can cause a buyer to withdraw. The cost of walking away from a deal and the dissonance of ‘surprises’, can negatively impact an intermediary’s brand. We also offer technology to make M&A professionals more productive and effective.”

Robert then underlines the attributes differentiate the firm from their competitors.

“The analytical output of the programme is used to create valuations/appraisals, confidential selling memoranda, and acquisition proposals. Our clients work on both the sell-side and the buy-side.”

“The analytical output of the programme is used to create valuations/appraisals, confidential selling memoranda, and acquisition proposals. Our clients work on both the sell-side and the buy-side.”

About clients, here is some feedback the firm received on their DealSense® programme: “We are quite pleased with ‘DealSense’. We have incorporated it into our overall valuation process and estimate that it reduces our valuation work time by 15 to 20 hours on each file, and allows us to prepare a codicil (value update) in approximately two hours, compared to an average of eight to ten hours in our old system.”

The time saved and insight gained, allows advisors to better use their time to prepare the company for market (pre-sale due diligence) and to build value for their client, Robert underlines. He then shares his views on the M&A market in the region currently.

62 Acquisition International - August 2017

that

“For MoneySoft DealSense, the main competition is the Excel spreadsheet and the in-house models (or multiple models), that are developed by staff and used within the company. For those seeking a better alternative (or supplement), there are several business valuation programmes that are available.

“However, DealSense is unique because it not only address valuation, it includes pricing, deal terms, allocation, transaction funding and integrated postdeal financial projections based upon line-item assumptions to evaluate the IRR on firm-level free cash flows (FCF) available to the buyer.”

As a concluding remark, Robert is keen to showcase the attributes which set his firm’s innovative solution apart.

“When it comes to M&A software tools, the most common one is the deal room, which is an online repository and management system for deal-related documents. Secure deal rooms can streamline the dissemination of documents, eliminating delivery and printing costs, and greatly reducing time.”

“However, when it comes to pricing, structuring and evaluating a deal opportunity, M&A practitioners are left with tools for performing valuations only or writing and managing their own spreadsheets. DealSense provides a better way, going well beyond valuation, and provides a reliable alternative (or supplement) to time-consuming spreadsheets.”

Remaining Competitive and Profitable

Acquisition International - August 2017 63

Company: Tusker Name: Alison Argall Email: hello@tuskerdirect.com Web: www.tuskerdirect.com Address: Building 4, Croxley Green Business Park Hatters Lane, Watford WD18 8YF UK Phone: +44 (0)333 400 8451

Set the Wheels in Motion Tusker, is the UK’s leading Car Benefit Company, helping hundreds of organisations offer a Car Benefit Scheme to their employees. As winner of the Leaders in Fleet Management Services – UK accolade, as part of AI’s 2017 Global Excellence Awards, we interviewed the firm’s Business Development Director, Alison Argall, to find out more.

1708AI38 usker provide Car Benefit Schemes and contract hire services to organisations across the public and private sector.

They work with big brands including Harrods, National Grid and Your Move, as well as 25% of NHS Trusts in England and a third of ambulance trusts.

T

The firm’s Business Development Director, Alison Argall, shares with us the virtues of Car Benefit Schemes, as the interview kicks off.

“Car Benefit Schemes give employees earning above the National Living Wage the opportunity to drive a brand-new car, complete with insurance, road tax, servicing, tyres and breakdown cover. An all-inclusive package gives a total peace of mind to the driver and their employer.

“Our commitment to customer services sets us apart in what we do. It’s our desire to make people happy which truly drives each member of the Tusker family, and which shines through in our interactions with our customers.”

“Providing savings in terms of National Insurance, as well as tax depending on the car chosen, the Car Benefit Scheme is proven to be cheaper than similar offerings at retail. It can also provide savings to the employer through National Insurance contributions and should a ULEV be chosen, this can amount to hundreds of pounds per car per year.

“Contract hire customers utilise Tusker’s expertise as an outsourcing option for their company cars. This way, Tusker can take the hassle out of managing a fleet and ensure that costs are controlled with a fixed monthly amount per car, rather than varying servicing and maintenance costs.”

On being selected as Leaders in Fleet Management Services – UK accolade, as part of AI’s 2017 Global Excellence Awards, Tusker is thrilled to have their efforts recognised. Alison also reveals the firm’s overall mission and how they integrate innovation into every aspect of their work.

64 Acquisition International - August 2017

“An accolade like this is something which the team at Tusker are all very proud of. It’s recognition for all the hard work and dedication the staff at Tusker have put in over the past 12 months, from the CEO and throughout each team in the company.

We’re proud to display the awards in our literature, website and reception, so that customers, partners and employees can see the progress we continue to make in the industry.”

“Tusker is on a mission to make employees happy.

It’s part of everything we do and is a focus for all our teams. Uniquely, our structure has been developed with the customer in mind. We have four separate teams, all dedicated to customer services at each stage of their interactions with us, in addition to marketing and sales support functions for organisations, once they have implemented our scheme.

“Our teams are provided with continuous personal training and development, through an online academy portal which ensures knowledge and skills sets are maximised for the roles, that the staff here undertake. It’s part of a commitment to ensuring that the firm evolves with the customer in mind, as we grow. We have a five star Trustpilot rating and a 97% customer satisfaction level, so we feel we’re doing well, though there is always room for improvement!

Alison then provides us with a compelling overview of the wider industry, when it comes to Car Benefit Schemes. She also reveals what techniques the firm uses to stay ahead of any emerging developments.

“2017 saw a huge change for Car Benefit Schemes, or so the mainstream media would have you believe. HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) decided to implement some changes to the way in which tax is applied to salary sacrifice schemes. This didn’t have the massive impact on cars, which was seen by some other salary sacrifice products, as cars have always attracted Benefit In Kind and continue to do so. The changes which were imposed have had a minimal impact on the car schemes, as the major benefits of the schemes remain and the changes in cost have been negligible.

“Tusker are a data driven organisation and as such, we pride ourselves on the ability to predict trends and adapt accordingly. Our data analysis ensures

Set the Wheels in Motion

that Tusker can accurately predict the near future and ensure we remain relevant and effective for the customers. We’re also good listeners. We have an experienced account management team, who work collaboratively with customers and actively listen to their concerns, suggestions and requirements to ensure we make the most of our capabilities for their benefit.”

In closing, Alison reveals the firm’s internal culture and its future.

“Tusker are a forward-thinking organisation and as such, we pride ourselves on our abilities to promote and develop the firm’s teams from within. This is in part due to the commitment of management to implement and promote the use of the academy, which is an online training portal. This unique system is available 24 hours a day to all staff and provides individuals with opportunities to improve their knowledge and skills, within working hours and at home. Recognition is afforded to those who utilise the system and maximise the opportunities to improve themselves.

“For the past year, our teams have been hard at work developing a completely new set of processes, systems and tools to future-proof the organisation, from a technology perspective. Tusker’s new adaptable systems will be cutting-edge technology, giving us the most innovative and effective website as well as driver portals to maximise the simplicity of the site, for the benefit of our customers.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 65

Striving for Perfection 1702AI65

Striving for Perfection SARC is a firm with 17 senior partners and a pan India presence with foot prints in London and Toronto. To win the 2017 Ones to Watch in Consultancy award is of course a great honour, one feels great and on top of the world.

Any recognition always motivates you to strive hard for perfection.

Company: SARC Associates Name: Dinesh Verma, Founding Partner Email: dinesh@sarcmail.in Web: www.sarcassociates.com LinkedIn id: https://in.linkedin.com/in/ dinesh-verma-49549920 Address: N-226, LGF, Greater Kailash-I, New Delhi -110 048, India Phone: +91 11 4173 4656 / 4657 / 4658, +91 98103 07182

SARC was established in year 1986, and is based out of India with headquarters in New Delhi. SARC has 10 offices across India to provide premium services to business, governments and communities.

E

The key service areas of SARC include the following: • Assurance; • Out sourced CFO services; • Direct tax advisory; • Indirect tax advisory; • GST transition; • Corporate law advisory; • Foreign Exchange Management Act & Foreign direct investment advisory; • Due diligence exercise; • Valuation services; • Transaction advisory, structuring, drafting of documents; • Restructuring advisory; • Commercial arbitration; • Negotiating, structuring joint venture and drafting of JV documents and; • Representation services.

2017 Ones to Watch in Consultancy Winning this award has been a great motivation for the team here. Personally, it gives one the feeling of achieving a mile stone in life and it always helps to keep the team here moving and working hard towards performing with greater perfection and zeal.

On this note, we believe that the success of any firm or organisation or even country lies in the hands of team. The award for which we have been nominated, all credit of it goes to the team. We have a strong and dedicated team of over 200, including professionally qualified staff, interns and office staff.

Success in today’s fiercely competitive world It is always difficult, but not impossible, to be recognised as different from the other service firms providing services in the same areas. One must create differentiation and a niche for them to be successful in today’s fiercely competitive world.

Being in a field where confidentiality is key, case studies even where name is removed is not advisable to be quoted, but it goes without saying that our clients are achieving much due to our firm’s philosophy of simple implementable solutions and on dot deliverables.

The firm’s client base includes industrial sectors such as automotive, as well as education, infra, private equity funds, asset management firms, the service sector, governments and a whole host of not for profit organisations.

66 Acquisition International - August 2017

Hopes and plans for 2017 and challenges, opportunities beyond The mile stone we want to achieve this year are more recognitions such as 2017 Ones to Watch in Consultancy and we hope that the firm will continue to help people, communities, countries, governments, business enterprises so we can achieve all-round inclusive growth.

With the firm being based in India, the country has certainly undergoing the changes of its life time, whether it is demonetisation, the introduction of GST or moving towards Ind-AS, introduction to GAAR and so on. So, our biggest challenge is to keep ourselves, our clients abreast with all the new legal changes ahead and the subsequent opportunities for firm in this respect.

The above are excerpt from the inputs received from Mr. Dinesh Verma, senior founding partner of the Firm.

Brief Profile of Mr. Dinesh Verma Professional qualifications – • Qualified as chartered accountant in 1991 from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India • Bachelor of Commerce (Honors), Delhi University Memberships – • Fellow member of Institute of Chartered Accountants of India • Life member of the Indian Council of Arbitrators • Insolvency Professional with Insolvency & Bankruptcy Board of India • Life member of Chelmsford Club Career path 1991 till date – • D. Verma Associates, Chartered Accountants • SARC & Associates, Chartered Accountants Current positions – • Founding Partner & Governing Council Member of SARC & Associates • Senior Consulting Partner at DVA Consulting Partners Private Limited • Independent Director at Assets Care & Reconstruction Enterprises Limited • India Board member of Indo European Business Forum Competencies and experience – Dinesh is experienced in assurance & risk, company law, direct tax areas, M&A, transaction advisory services, valuations, due diligence, FDI and FEMA, outsourced CFO services.

Dinesh has also been a TV commentator & policy analyst for past 10 years.

Excellent Track Record in Greek Real Estate Law 1708AI21

Company: Valmas & Associates Name: Ioannis Valmas Email: info@athenslawoffice.com Web: www.athenslawoffice.com Address: Ippokratous 10-12 street, 106 79, Athens, GREECE. Phone: +30 210 339 2081

Excellent Track Record in Greek Real Estate Law Valmas & Associates is a Greek Law Firm, located in the centre of Athens. Following their success in winning the Most Outstanding Law Firm 2017 – Greece, we invited the firm’s Ioannis Valmas to provide an insight into their work and global reach. almas & Associates – Greek Law Firm is a law practice, established in 2008, with a truly global reach representing and serving clients from across the globe.

Being selected as Most Outstanding Law Firm of the Year – Greece, is the result of a decade’s hard work and is an encouraging reward, giving us further incentives to keep going and remain at the top of our field.

V

Our law firm offers a vast array of legal services in the areas of Greek aviation law (with services ranging from aircraft and aircrafts’ parts sales and purchase to litigation), Greek shipping law (with services ranging from ship arrests to ship sale and purchase), contracts formation and business claims (running a strong litigation practice with an excellent track record).

Level of expertise Our Greek inheritance lawyers possess the level of expertise required for clearing up inheritances, on behalf of expatriates and foreign nationals.

Furthermore, we have an experienced legal team, who practice Greek real estate law and have demonstrated an excellent track record in this area. For example, my team represented a foreign airline, on a cross-border dispute against a Greek airline, before the Greek courts for a claim of over €700.000.

We also have expertise in Greek Golden Visa legal assistance, which includes a multitude of elements, including: find a suitable property or properties on behalf of clients; aiding throughout the negotiation process; issuing a Greek Tax ID; opening a bank account (where physical presence of the beneficiary is mandatory); act as permanent tax representative on an annual basis (at extra cost) and provide continuous support after the permit has been acquired. Visit our website at: www. athenslawoffice.com/golden-visa to learn more.

Our expertise can be summarised as follows: • We have extensive experience with overseas clients ranging from government bodies, corporations, businesses and private individuals; • We have a vast network of professionals meeting all your business and representation needs including notaries, attorneys, civil engineers, topographers and tax experts; • We have showcased experience and delivered results in a vast array of sectors and practice areas;

• • •

We have a modern and transparent business model, with constant updates and a flow of communication; We can give a full insight into the local market, such as the real estate or local markets, ensuring your investment makes sense and; There are no hidden charges.

Sectors and practice areas We excel in the following areas of Greek law: aviation; shipping; transportation; real estate; debt recovery; Greek inheritance; business and commercial; contracts and sales; bankruptcy; accidents and claims; administrative; criminal; energy; family; medical; trademarks and patents; litigation and ADR; foreign judgement enforcement; criminal records’ acquisition; state reports on criminal records and official translating services.

Aviation law (Air law) Aviation law (air law) is a very specialised area - that requires enhanced legal knowledge and understanding - to successfully solve problems that may arise out of transactions involving aircrafts, charter agreements or the carriage of goods and passengers. Valmas & Associates offers professional services in Greek Aviation law, as well as international Aviation law including: 1. Air charter agreements drafting and litigation; 2. Lease of aircrafts; 3. Passenger claims; 4. Agreements for the sale and purchase of aircrafts and spare parts; 5. Agreements for aircraft maintenance; 6. Contracts between airlines and tour operators; 7. Aircraft accidents; 8. Claims which may arise from all activities related to airline companies and the operation of aircrafts; 9. Registrations of aircrafts and aircraft engines in Greece and; 10. Deregistration’s of aircrafts and aircraft engines in Greece.

Mr Ioannis Valmas was recently chosen to draft and publish a chapter on Aviation law (Aviation law in Greece, I. Valmas, 2016 - A Guide for Entrepreneurs & Business Entities Involved in the Aviation Industry in Greece), in the leading Greek Publication Greek Law Digest.

Finally, we have successfully represented foreign nationals with a 100% success rate, throughout the vast array of tasks required for the acquisition of the Greek Golden Visa. Contact our Greek lawyers today, so that you get a quote on your legal matter.

Acquisition International - August 2017 67

One of the Oldest Civil Law Firms in Sri Lanka 1708AI16

One of the Oldest Civil Law Firms in Sri Lanka Company: Julius & Creasy Name: (Ms) Anomi Wanigasekera Email: pts@juliusandcreasy.lk Web: www.juliusandcreasy.com Address: No. 41, Janadhipathi Mawatha, Colombo 1, Sri Lanka Phone: +94 11 2422 601

Julius and Creasy is one of the oldest civil law firms in Sri Lanka, founded in 1879. As the exclusive Leading Trademark and Copyright Litigator of the Year - Sri Lanka award winner, we invited the firm’s partner, Anomi Wanigasekera to tell us more about their innovative legal and business solutions. ulius and Creasy is one of the oldest civil law firms in Sri Lanka. Founded in 1879, the firm has established itself on a rich tradition and the highest professional principles possible. Julius and Creasy’s wealth of expertise and experience, in a wide range of specialist law fields, has enables it to offer innovative legal and business solutions to a diverse, sophisticated and high profile clientele.

Julius and Creasy serves both multinational firms and Sri Lankan blue chip companies.

J

Our firm, from its inception, has been involved in intellectual property work. We are presently handling over 30,000 files, of which about 10,000 are current, plus intellectual property involves both contentious and non-contentious matters. We file many trademark applications for overseas clients being instructed by our associates in several countries - including UK, European Union, USA, India, Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and Korea.

In contentious matters, we represent clients both at the National Intellectual Property Office in opposition proceedings, as well as in infringement proceedings before courts.

Infringement proceedings are instituted in the Commercial High Court and where necessary, criminal proceedings are also instituted in the Magistrate’s Court.

Although our practice is largely concerned with trademarks, we have a substantial portfolio of patents as well. A large part of this portfolio is related to PCT applications filed in Sri Lanka. We also file various design applications for overseas clients in Sri Lanka, as well as for Sri Lankan clients overseas, through our associates in various countries. We also advise Sri Lankan and overseas companies on copyright issues, including the reviewing of copyright agreements and advising publishers, both in Sri Lanka and overseas.

In summary, the firm specialises in the following areas: • Admiralty and maritime; • Banking and finance; • Capital markets; • Corporate and commercial; • Infrastructure projects and project finance; • Insurance law; • Intellectual property; • IT, media and telecommunications; • Islamic finance; • Labour and employment; • Litigation and arbitration; • Mergers and acquisitions; • Private clients; • Probate and trusts; • Property and construction and; • Taxation.

On being recognised as the exclusive Leading Trademark and Copyright Litigator of the Year Sri Lanka, we feel very proud of this recognition.

It means that our clients have a great deal of confidence in the work we do, so they can count upon us to serve their needs. In the future, our intellectual property division will expand, so that we can serve our clients as efficiently as possible.

68 Acquisition International - August 2017

World Recognized Intellectual Property Group 1708AI35

Company: Ehrlich Group Contact: Anat Weissgarten Email: anat@ipatent.co.il Web: www.ipatent.co.il Address: The Rogovin-Tidhar Tower, 15th Floor 11 Menachem Begin Road Ramat Gan, 5268104, Israel Phone: 00972 73 7919199

World Recognized Intellectual Property Group Ehrlich Group is a world recognized Intellectual Property Group, located in Israel. hrlich Group provides its clients with a wide range of Intellectual Property services, both in Israel and abroad, on the highest level. The Group consists of Ehrlich & Fenster, Israel’s leading international Patent and Trademark Attorneys firm; Ehrlich, Neubauer & Melzer (EN&M), a boutique IP firm with extensive experience and knowledge in all fields of law relating to Intellectual Property; and IPTrade, which aids companies engaged in various technological fields to monetize their IP. Given the seamless cooperation and synergies between Ehrlich & Fenster, Ehrlich, Neubauer & Melzer and IPTrade, we offer clients a complete IP package filing, prosecution, opposition, litigation support and resolution.

E

Ehrlich & Fenster is a leading Israeli Patent and Trademark Attorneys firm, with vast knowledge and experience on an international level. The firm specializes in all matters concerning protection and prosecution of Patents/Patent Applications and Utility Models, on a wide spectrum of technological fields. Our strategic edge lies, among others, in our ability to pinpoint the single technology or set of core technologies which often hide in the labyrinth of the development work or behind a discovery. We help our clients isolate these assets. Then we analyze and evaluate the “proprietary extras” that provide the winning edge. Bearing our clients’ future goals in mind always, we incessantly assess potential opportunities and directions in which to further develop these assets. The firm handles over 50,000 IP related files, drafting and filing applications for

many major international corporations, institutions, governmental institutes, universities, private companies and individual clients from around the world, inclusive of multinational, international and fortune 500 companies, which constitute about one third of the firm’s clients, on the one hand, and Nobel and Wolf Prize laureates on the other hand.

Ehrlich, Neubauer & Melzer provides a broad range of IP legal services and regulatory advice. The firm also acts for companies before the Innovation Authority (formally known as the Chief Scientist Office). It also provides legal advice to those seeking grants to fund their research and development activities. The firm escorts pharmaceutical and lifescience companies who wish to conduct clinical trials in Israel throughout the process of obtaining required authorizations, and parties who wish to fund pro-bono activities or make donations to health organizations that are under the Ministry of Health supervision.

The monetization services we provide through our subsidiary IPTrade, help high tech companies and owners of technology patents registered in the USA to derive global revenues from their intellectual property.

Through IPTrade, the Ehrlich Group serves established tier-1 companies as well as startups and private investors. We have made it our purpose to expose Israel’s vast resources of technological IP to the entire world for the benefit of the global industry and the talented inventors.

Acquisition International - August 2017 69

Most Trusted DB Pension Provider 2017 1708AI37

Company: TPT Retirement Solutions Name: Billy Wheeler Email: DBcomplete@tpt.org.uk Web: www.tpt.org.uk Address: Verity House, 6 Canal Wharf, Leeds LS11 5BQ Phone: 0113 394 2686

Most Trusted DB Pension Provider 2017 TPT Retirement Solutions is an experienced provider of bundled high quality workplace pensions to more than 2,400 organisations and over 260,000 members with assets under management of around £9bn. The firm is a not-for-profit organisation, so they have no shareholders and are run purely for the benefit of their members. Recently we spoke to TPT Retirement Solutions’ Chief Executive Mike Ramsey about the work of the PT Retirement Solutions DB Complete product reduces the amount of time and money a client needs to spend running their defined benefit (DB) legacy pension scheme, whilst maintaining a high level of professional governance under their DB Master Trust arrangement. Mike explains how this solution provides all the services required to run such a scheme successfully.

T

“As DB specialists, we’ve been keeping pensions simple, accessible and easy to understand for over 70 years. Our combined size and strength with more than £9 billion worth of assets enable the schemes within TPT Retirement Solutions to benefit from our economies of scale. Our research indicates that we can typically save at least 30% on the total costs of running a DB scheme, and the size of TPT means that we can provide innovative and cost effective solutions for those who face a challenge with their legacy DB pension arrangements. TPT Retirement Solutions access institutional funds at wholesale prices, with cutting edge investments and strategies.”

70 Acquisition International - August 2017

In more detail, Mike explains the approach he takes to ensure the best possible returns for investors.

“We offer two investments options within DB Complete. The first is our Dynamic Portfolio, for those wanting a more sophisticated and diversified investment approach. This portfolio provides access to a wide range of assets, including alternative growth assets, which helps reduce volatility risk.

The second, our Simplified Portfolio provides a low cost, mainly passive, index-tracking investment approach. Both options also provide access to LDI solutions, within the matching assets, which control interest and inflation rate risk.”

Looking ahead, TPT Retirement Solutions shows no sign of slowing down, instead taking pride in the accomplishments they have made to date and planning for the future in order to continue their success.

“We are very confident that there is a significant market amongst legacy DB pension schemes for our DB Complete product which is in-line with the Department for Work and Pensions thinking on consolidation.”

Best Pre-Owned Analytical Equipment Supplier – North America BE170150

Company: Spectra Lab Scientific Inc. Contact: Joanna Email: purchase@ spectralabsci.com Web: www.spectralabsci.com Address: 38 McPherson St, Markham (Greater Toronto Area), Ontario, L3R 3V6, Canada Phone: 001905 946 8066

Best Pre-Owned Analytical Equipment Supplier – North America Spectralab Scientific started operating in Canada in 2003. Since 2003 we have grown to become a global leader of pre-owned refurbished analytical equipment, and the number one pre-owned refurbished analytical lab equipment vendor in Canada. We profiled the firm to find out more about the services they offer and the secrets behind its success. pectralab Scientific is a global leader of pre-owned refurbished analytical equipment. Its enhanced services include maintenance and service contracts, repair services, validation services and equipment parts. Alongside these services, the firm also deals with calibrations, certifications and a variety of onsite tailor-made training programs. The company possesses a team of experienced, skilled, and motivated professionals that can provide the bets and most effective lab solutions to its client base worldwide.

Spectralab has shipped to over 60 countries, with that number continuing to rise. The firm assist clients all over the globe with their analytical needs.

S

Located in Markham in the Greater Toronto Area, the firm’s modern facility comprises of more than 25,000 sq.ft., consisting of offices, a technical service department, labs and demo rooms.

Additionally, there are training facilities and a large warehouse of equipment, parts and consumables.

The organisation provides staff with the ability to quickly provide lab solutions in response to business needs both locally and internationally.

In the midst of an accelerating pace of technical innovation, Spectralab Scientific are uniquely positioned to identify, evaluate and respond effectively to market needs because of its technical expertise. Management and staff’s overall mission is to consistently deliver reconditioned hi-tech instruments with superior quality and reliability.

Boasting a wealth of experience and knowledge, Spectralab Scientific’s key product portfolio consists of a diverse range of instruments from leading brands such as Agilent, Varian, Perkin Elmer, Shimadzu, Waters, JASCO, Dionex, Thermo Finnigan, AB Sciex, to name just a few.

The scientific equipment at the firm’s disposal includes but is not limited to: GC, HPLC, GC-MS, GC-MS/MS, LC-MS, LC-MS/MS, ICP-MS, ICP-OES, Autosamplers and Sampling devices, as well as Spectrophotometers – UV-Vis, FTIR, Fluorescence etc.

Outlining the key services that the company offers, it is its crucial expertise in lab technologies such as HPLC, LC/MS, GC and GC/MS which helps it stand out amongst others. This expertise allows personalised solutions and a consolidated instrument service for validated environments.

The services include calibration, qualification and preventive maintenance of instruments from almost any leading manufacturer. Working towards a goal of ensuring greater uptime of instruments which leads to improved performance and superior productivity, while maintaining compliance with cost savings.

Regarding the training and demo lab at the firm, this helps the company be committed to providing high-quality hands-on analytical laboratory instrument training using modern teaching media to increase customer expertise and productivity in the laboratory. These courses focus on operation, data analysis and reporting, troubleshooting and maintenance as well as advanced topics. The courses can be pre-defined or custom tailored upon request.

Spectralab Scientific also maintain a spacious and separate lab at the facility for demonstrations of its current products, in order for prospective clients and other professionals to see the products on display. To see these products in action, trial runs can be arranged to prospective clients so that they can gather all the facts and information that they need.

Importantly, all of the firm’s products are securely packed in sturdy material cartons or wooden crates as required. The products are securely packaged, wrapped in bubble wrap to provide cushioning for the goods. There is also robust physical protection against the possibility of damage during transportation. Spectralab also uses the most efficient logistics service providers, notably FedEx, TNT, Day & Ross etc, ensuring the products arrive safely at their destination. These providers are used to ensure that environmental performance concerns are taken into consideration,

Acquisition International - August 2017 71

AI’s 2017 European Excellence 17007AI04

Company: Tremondi S.R.O Contact: Petr Balcarek Email: petr.balcarek@ tremondi.cz Web: www.tremondi.cz Address: Bucovska 417, Letonice, 68335, Czech Republic Phone: 0042 0 606 326 923

AI’s 2017 European Excellence Tremondi S.R.O are a company dealing in Motorsport that offer a wide range of smart solutions for a variety of clients. We profiled the firm to find out more about their products and how they are of benefit to clients.

remondi offer various solutions within Motorsport, most notably, Motorsport, Blue Power and E-Motion. Creating their own solutions, the firm customises its solutions and can tailor them to suit a specific client.

T

Concerning Motorsport, Tremondi offer complete custom solutions of control systems, electronics, electric components and installation, as well as fuel components for racing cars and motorbikes.

For all electronic and electric components, the firm can design and supply wiring harnesses based on Raychem heavy duty harnessing systems and Deutsch connecting components. Additionally, the company can design and supply sensors or sensor kits, made of either automotive OEM sensors or industrial sensors, coupled with motorsport reliable connecting solution approved for heavy duty environment in motorsport conditions.

Regarding Blue Power, Tremondi is a direct distributor of Kokam, the global leader in large size lithium-polymer cell technology for automotive and industrial applications. With an extremely large range of capacities available with Kokam cells, the company can satisfy any demand on the best performing, high quality and high reliability lithium-polymer cells without the need of making unwanted parallel cell compositions. As such, the firm can supply small size cells for RC models, small and mid-size cells for portable devices up to the largest size cells on the market for transportation and heavy duty industrial use. The cells offered by Kokam are divided in two product lines (High Energy Density and High Power), with each providing the best parameters for different specific requirements. In addition to the bare cells, the firm can provide the soft packs assembled directly at Kokam. Tremondi can supply any cells from the Kokam catalogue, assembled in soft pack ranging from 2S1P up to 14S1P. In order to add a utility value to the Kokam cells, as well as enlarging the range of possible applications, staff have developed Tremondi’s advanced battery pack systems based on Kokam cells. Together, with its control systems for Lithium-Ion battery packs, the firm can offer complex solutions for a wide range of applications from backup power supply, through batteries for transportation, up to batteries for heavy duty applications and large capacity energy storage systems (solar power plant systems, power distribution backup systems etc.). These battery pack systems create a flexible system of cost optimised

72 Acquisition International - August 2017

lightweight robust skeletons, which are capable if accommodating any industrial cells of the Kokam catalogue ranging from 4 Ah up to 240 Ah. Aside from battery systems, the company also deals with the development and application of electric and electronic components especially for transportation.

Together with its engineering partners, the firm can offer complete kits of low performance as well as high efficiency electric powertrains, ranging from 0.5 up to 20 kW, using the best available technologies on the market. The kit can contain all electric powertrain components, including battery packs, battery control system, electric motor with controller, dashboard unit and a wiring harness.

Another of the company’s solutions is the electric powertrain, Electric powertrains composed from a brushless electric motor, lithium based battery and advanced electronics represent the new age of propulsion concepts for 21st century transportation.

Due to evident mechanical simplicity, along with enormous intelligence capability, designing flexibility and power transition compactness, this product provides very smart solutions for the future propulsion of transportation.

Electric scooters Akumoto are the best compromise of a simple and easy to drive, reliable and economical transport on two wheels put together. Compared to the gasoline power plant in this class there is no more any significant advantage of the gasoline versions, not even the weight or purchase price. On the contrary, electric scooters are significantly easier to drive than the gasoline powered ones.

Purchasing the Akumoto scooter, clients would receive a reasonably high quality means of transport, using the best actively available technologies with minimum operation and service costs. All Akumoto models are produced under the Quality Management System supervision, with the final assembly being done in the Czech Republic.

This solution by Tremondi leads to the future looking bright for the firm. The scooter has an extremely long duration period and can travel on long journeys.

Additionally, it has possible regenerative braking systems, and clients can be assured that this Czech brand assembles all of its products with the Czech Republic. Ultimately, Tremondi offer a wide range of smart solutions and the clients can be rest assured they will be provided with only the best possible product.

The Role of the Modern Estate Agency FN160044

Company: P2M Group Name: Dina Bhudia Email: info@p2m-group.com Web: www.p2m-group.com Address: Amba House 15 College Road, Harrow Middlesex, HA1 1BA UK Phone: +44 (0)208 427 5392

The Role of the Modern Estate Agency P2M Group consists of a team of qualified professionals, with decades of experience in the property industry. As winner of the Best for Property Investment Management – UK award, we invited director, Dina Bhudia to profile the firm’s work in selling, letting and buying. sing their extensive network and innovative marketing technologies, P2M Group can bring sellers and landlords together, with buyers and tenants respectively. The firm’s director, Dina Bhudia begins this interview by telling us about the firm’s property connections abroad and the role of the modern estate agency today.

U

“P2M Group has a very strong international property connection in select overseas destinations and we are constantly striving to source both viable and worthwhile investment opportunities for our client base.

“We have a network of partners throughout Europe, Spain, Cyprus, France, Italy as well as excellent representation in India, Brazil and the United States.

Here in the United Kingdom, we specialise in quality properties in sought-after residential areas suitable for professional individuals, couples, group sharing and families alike.

“P2M Group recognises that estate agency has become woefully outdated; inefficient use of the internet and other marketing technologies, coupled with poor levels of service has left the industry unable to provide the high standards that people both expect and demand today.”

P2M Group’s name and reputation is only as good as their people, Dina underlines, something that the firm never forgets. She goes on to develop this point and explains how the firm takes selling a home very seriously indeed.

“It is our ability to listen to people’s needs that enables us to provide the right answers. By building a relationship with each customer, we develop a clear understanding of their requirements and maintain a position of trust, both of which are essential when entering a sale.

“P2M Group takes selling your home very seriously, our aim is to put your property in front of as many people as we possibly can and as quickly as possible, very often the same day as instructed. As such, do not be surprised if you receive calls from us requesting a viewing that very same day, due to our state-of-the-art property software system.

“We use the latest in marketing technology to present your property details to the people that count, via email updates, SMS text messaging, newspaper advertising plus and our fabulous stateof-the-art website.

“Property selling can run smoothly and be a very satisfying experience, especially when you have confidence in your agent. Over time, the estate agency industry has attracted rather a poor name, and rightfully so in our opinion.

“Some of the better-known agents having been in the limelight for the wrong reasons and really have not helped create confidence. However, we know where the firm is going and understand that honesty and transparency is what is required to reach our goals, words not often associated with an agency anymore.”

Dina then underlines the firm’s philosophy when it comes to letting.

“On letting, we believe that the relationship between landlord and tenant can sometimes be a little bumpy and as such, the need for a professional agent is paramount in closing any divide to allow for a smooth and enjoyable property experience for all parties concerned. So, whether you are a landlord or tenant, you are best advised to conclude your property transaction via a reputable agent.

“Tenancy law is now far better regulated than ever before - with fairness being applied to all parties.

Tenants’ deposits are now held within a tenant’s deposit scheme and are returned at the end of the tenancy subject to all outstanding bills being paid and the property being returned in the same manner it was taken.

“The lettings market today has grown immensely, due to the increasing buy-to let-market and with so much new build added to the marketplace the level of quality has risen greatly.”

In closing, Dina imparts her thoughts on buying and how the firm can assist in this regard.

“On buying, searching for your next home can consume a lot of time and energy. We help to make the home search and buying experience more constructive and enjoyable, by offering clear guidance and as much visual and other information as possible on all properties held on our database.

“P2M Group also commits to ensuring all viewings we arrange are accompanied by one of our professional consultants. These factors help ensure viewings are a positive experience for buyers and vendors, and substantially reduce a lot of time waste.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 73

All from One Source 1707AI11

All from One Source Name: ANC Legal Office, Dr. Alejandra Navarro de Chalupa E-Mail: info@anc-legal.com Website: www.anc-austria.at Address: Kantgasse 3 / Top 9, A-1010 Wien Phone: + 43 (0) 1 713 07 13

Based in Vienna, ANC Legal Office was founded by Dr. Alejandra Navarro de Chalupa. Dr. Alejandra founded this law firm as a European Lawyer admitted to the Bar Association of Vienna, after having more than 23 years of successful professional experience in Europe and Latin America. r. Alejandra Navarro de Chalupa ANC Legal Office was established by Dr. Alejandra Navarro de Chalupa. Born in Argentina, Dr. Alejandra studied law in Argentina, Spain and Austria. Since November 1.998 she lives and works in Austria.

D

Dr. Navarro de Chalupa was admitted at the Bar Associations of Cordoba (Argentina), Madrid (Spain) and Vienna (Austria).

Other relevant aspects of her professional background: • Collaboration with the Commission for International Trade Law (UNCITRAL), United Nations Office in Vienna • Graduated as export consultant • Participation on Commercial Missions, representing Austrian Governmental Organisations • Lawyer of trust of several Embassies in Vienna • Lectures and publications regarding legal commercial issues Through her high level of dedication and professional competence, Dr Navarro de Chalupa has made it her ambition to put ANC Legal Office on the global map when it comes to providing the best services covering the needs of their clients Navarro de Chalupa and the team at ANC Legal Office, provide their services for international organisations, companies, embassies, and private individuals in many regions. Through their international team, the offices in Austria, South America (Argentina) and Spain (Madrid), together with a network of cooperation partners in Europe, Latin America, former Soviet Union and Middle East, ANC Legal Office are able to support their clients in their business in an efficient manner.

The services of ANC are individually fine-tuned to fit the precise needs of their clients by: • Personal Support • Excellency and Professionalism • Clear and Transparent Price Policy Practice Areas • Administrative Law • Corporate Law • Commercial Law • Immigration Law • Tenancy Law • Employment Law • Contractual Law – especially for international (import/export) activites • International Debt Recovery

74 Acquisition International - August 2017

In these practiced areas, ANC represent a wide array of domestic and international clients in an effort to meet their legal needs.

ANC Legal Office, the most innovative Austrian Law Firm 2017 Perhaps what makes them an innovative law firm is their unique concept “All from one source”, which means that they support their clients in different areas. Through the cooperation with ANC International Consulting – also based in Vienna they are able to provide their clients with business executive services such as; accounting, payroll, company domicile, financial services, etc.

ANC Legal Office is very proud and happy to have been selected by Acquisition International as the 2017 Most Innovative Austrian Law Firm for its jurisdiction. The award is a recognition to the trajectory and dedication of its founder, Dr. Alejandra Navarro de Chalupa and the invaluable work of the ANC’s team.

This is at the same time a confirmation that ANC Legal Office’s proposal is the right one.

This fact motivates ANC to continue the path mapped. With their on-going improvements at all levels, it is a very important part of ANC’s philosophy. Another office in Middle East is planned and the firm are looking forward to start working within other regions as well.

Nevertheless, there are always challenges on ANC Legal’s path, since their concept is unique within their jurisdiction.

Internationality is on the daily agenda of ANC Legal Office Due to the activities in different regions, the clientele of the law firm is 100% international. They also represent several industries. Hence, every project presents new challenges and possibilities. ANC Legal Office’s team support them through each phase of their journey.

These phases are for example: • Developing and implementing the business idea for the establishment of companies in Austria • Submitting appropriate grant proposals and other funding applicants for the project • Applying for residence permit – for the CEOs and their families • Registering the brands of the company At ANC, their office languages include; Spanish, German, English, Italian, Portuguese, French, Persian, Serbian and Croatian.

A Trusted Hub for Public Finance Data 1708AI01

Company: BudgIT Name: Oluseun Onigbinde Email: info@yourbudgit.com Web: yourbudgit.com Address: 55 Moleye Street, Alagomeji, Lagos Nigeria Phone: +234 908 333 1633

A Trusted Hub for Public Finance Data BudgIT is a creative agency, who develops a multi-platform a userfriendly presentation of state and federal budgets, to include charts and performance analysis for proper understanding of what budgets entail.

As part of our Nigeria: Remaining a Key FDI Destination in 2017 series, we interviewed the lead partner, Oluseun Onigbinde to find out more about firm’s financial and technical expertise. ith a population of over 180 million people, Nigeria is by some distance the most populated country in Africa, and despite the economic slowdown in recent times, there still exists a huge amount of potential for sustainable growth. As part of our Nigeria: Remaining a Key FDI Destination in 2017 series, we place the spotlight on BudgIT’s who are based in Lagos, Nigeria.

W

BudgIT’s user-friendly presentation of state and federal budgets is critical to benchmark governance and the government’s allocation to specific sectors.

Lead partner of BudgIT, Oluseun Onigbinde begins the interview, by revealing his own ethos and how this fits in with the firm’s wider work.

“I believe in a just, transparent and fair society, where every citizen within a community has equal access of information about the fiscal position of their society. I intend to use technologies of any form, that appeal across every literacy span, to make information especially public data more accessible, transparent and understandable to Nigerians and to the great people of the world.

“We clearly want to use both the firm’s financial and technical expertise, to make budgets understandable and deepen discussions around its allocation and expenditure, as our contribution to citizenship participation.”

Founded in 2011, BudgIT is a civic organisation that applies technology to intersect citizen engagement with institutional improvement, to facilitate societal change, Oluseun reveals.

“Aa a pioneer in the field of social advocacy melded with technology, BudgIT uses an array of tech tools to simplify the budget and matters of public spending for citizens, with the primary aim of raising the standards of both transparency and accountability in government.

“We are in constant partnership with civil society, public institutions and the media, chiefly in the areas of fiscal analyses, civic technology and data representation. BudgIT’s methodology is deploying refined data mining skillsets, to creatively represent data and empower citizens to use the resulting information in demanding improved service delivery.”

Beyond budget access, BudgIT functions on the premise that budgets must work for the people.

Most emblematic is their project-tracking tool (Tracka), created in 2014, Oluseun tells us.

“Tracka is now functional in 17 States and allows Nigerians post pictures of developmental projects in their communities, with BudgIT’s project officers aiding citizens offline to communicate with their elected representatives and demand completion of the government projects in their neighbourhoods.

“So far, BudgIT had been able to reach over 750,000 Nigerians via digital and physical spaces, leading online and offline conversations on government finance and public sector efficiency. With over 2,000 unique data requests monthly from private, corporate and development entities/individuals, BudgIT is now widely regarded as a trusted hub for public finance data in Nigeria.

“Offline, and on the ground, BudgIT collaborates across the public-private sectors to deliver programmes that shore up the capacity of its peers and willing government institutions. Relying on donor funding, we have worked with 23 civil society organisations to revamp their digital outlook, policy analyses and report presentation formats, and are currently experimenting with Nigeria’s first Data Journalism platform.”

BudgIT’s past and recent engagements in the public sector, include partnerships with the National Assembly, the National Assembly Budget and Research Office, the Budget Office of the Federation and the Kaduna State Government. Oluseun then provides his closing remarks, underlining the influence that BudgIT has in the world today.

“On request, BudgIT has also provided support to the Nigerian Extractives Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), the Ministry of Budget and Planning and the Lagos State Ministry of Budget and Planning.

“Simultaneously, BudgIT continues to influence the national agenda on public spending, with its policy papers covering government finance, sub-national viability, Open Government schemes, as well as the analyses of anti-corruption and transparency initiatives. As a member of the Civicus Alliance and Open Alliance, BudgIT is also leading the charge to ensure Nigeria’s membership of the global Open Government Partnership.

“BudgIT, which was began as an idea incubated by the co-Creation Hub in Lagos, Nigeria now has additional offices in Sierra Leone, and Ghana.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 75

A Long and Strong Presence 1706AI53

Company: Fernanda Lopes e Advogados Associados Name: Fernanda Lopes Email: geral.maputo@fla.co.mz Web: www.fla.co.mz Address: Mozambique, No. 224 Maputo - Mozambique Phone: + 258 21 49 69 74

A Long and Strong Presence Fernanda Lopes e Advogados Associados is a full-service corporate and commercial law firm, assisting companies in legal areas, related to the activity of companies. As winner of the 2017 African Excellence Awards, we invited Fernanda Lopes Fernanda Lopes to profile the firm’s work in the legal space. ounded in Maputo in 1995, Fernanda Lopes & Associados-Advogados has a long and strong presence in the Mozambique market. The founding partners, Fernanda Lopes and Teodato Hunguana, both bring extensive experience to the firm’s activities.

F

FL&A is a full service corporate and commercial law firm, assisting companies in its activity needs and legal areas related to the companies and the activity of companies (law of contracts, labour law, property, real estate and land laws, industrial property and litigation).

FL&A regularly advises major international corporations seeking to operate in Mozambique’s investment climate. The firm has built strong knowledge and expertise in natural resources, energy, transport and infrastructure matters.

At the firm, FL&A Lawyers believe that understanding the client allows to assist and advice pragmatically and solution-oriented. Competent and ethical professional behaviour, commitment and technical excellence are qualities that lend themselves both to clients and to the profession.

FL&A lawyers believe in approaching the priorities of any client with a pragmatic and solution oriented perspective, offering an in-depth knowledge of the market and quality legal services, with efficiency.

Areas of practice FL&A areas of practice include work concerning contracts, labour and litigation, which are summarised below.

Companies • Incorporation of companies, amendments to articles of association and share capital changes, shareholders’ agreements, restructurings, acquisitions through purchases, mergers and capital increases, joint ventures and other company closing and insolvency; • Board and general meetings assistance, preparation of respective minutes; • Assistance to foreign Investor and investment and following registrations and; • Asset securitisation, assignments of assets and liabilities of directors.

76 Acquisition International - August 2017

Contracts • Legal opinion on commercial and civil contracts; • Preparing general terms and conditions of commercial and civil contracts, including agency, distribution, concession and franchise contracts; • Termination of contracts, in the several ways of termination and; • Validity, interpretation and enforcement of civil and commercial contracts.

Labour • Legal opinions and assistance in the several changes in the labour relationship; • Employment contract, general and senior executive, including exclusivity, non-compete and confidentiality clauses; • Foreign employees and directors; • Policy manuals and codes of conduct; • Labour relations, outsourcing and subcontracting; • Employment and social security due diligences; • Dismissals and restructurings and; • Arbitration and litigation.

Property and real estate • Purchase, sale and investment on property and real estate projects; • Due diligence reviews; • Ownership, lease and transfer of property; • Legal opinion on right of acquisition of land; • Acquisition, transfer and termination of right of use of land; • Mortgage and other security on movable and immovable assets and; • Enforcement of guarantees.

Industrial property and trademarks Registration and assistance to defence of marks should be bullet as a detail of the Industrial property and trademarks

Litigation • Arbitration: ad hoc and institutional • Judicial: corporate litigation, disputes between shareholders, challenging company resolutions, commercial and civil contractual litigation; enforcement of guarantees; execution of foreign and domestic judicial and arbitral awards

Consultancy with Personality in Budapest 1706AI47

Company: Exuberant Group Name: Ayesha Temuri Email: ayesha.temuri@ exuberant-group.com Web: www.exuberant-group.com Address: Honve’d u. 8. ½, Budapest, 1054, Hungary Phone: +36 20259 98226

Consultancy with Personality in Budapest Exuberant group are bringing a unique, personalized service delivery to the world of consultancy, earning them a place in our Prominent Women in Business series.

xuberant group is the consulting firm that business leaders go to when they want enduring results, and a partner who cares as much as they do about achieving them. They help organizations to bring their visions for the future to life with a one-stop solution to a wide range of challenges. By working together, Exuberant find solutions to issues, set out strategies for the business and provide the encouragement needed to re-energize and motivate the people working within the client’s business.

E

Exuberant group is passionate about always doing the right thing for their clients, employees and community. By collating skills and innovation from across the world, Exuberant address the real needs of clients and build solutions which incorporate the value, visions and culture of the client’s business.

As a professional organization, with a team of high profile and experienced consultants, Exuberant group have collaborated with hundreds of consultants worldwide to share and gain industry knowledge and expertise. These consultants offer analytical and structured approaches towards any challenges clients are facing.

The company is founded on four key values; The company believes that business is driven by people and that everyone, from clients, to partners and staff need to be involved in processes to give them the human touch necessary to separate them from stoic, rigid consultancy practices of old. The company believes in making “People” their real force and strength behind their company core business.

The second value is passion – without it, success is not possible. The company believes in hiring passionate people and working with partners worldwide who share the same drive and determination to succeed within the industry as the founders and managers do.

Power to make independent decisions, and direct the future of the company is the third value held by the Exuberant group. The belief that holding power

over capabilities such as strength, knowledge, competence and rationality is vital to be able to deliver an exceptional service to our customers.

The final value is positivity; the company seeks to inspire, motivate and inject positive energy into their client’s businesses. Consultants never say “no” to a problem or a difficult situation and remain ready and informed to take on new challenges.

Additionally, The Company has a focus on enriching the life of women and creating the opportunity for women to succeed in the business world, without fear or boundaries.

The group work upon the ‘Exuberant satisfaction methodology’ which is divided into 9 main milestones. This allows the group to carefully dissect the needs of each individual client to find a tailored solution which provides the best results for that individual or company.

The 9 steps approach are designed to be customercentric, whilst upholding the key objective - to provide high quality services at cost-effective prices, creating a high value proposition for the client.

This methodology means that the consultants are in an ongoing conversation with clients – rather than one-off contact made only when necessary.

The group work to form real relationships with their customers and provide services which go beyond the conventional expectations.

Exuberant group are passionate about always doing the right thing for their clients, and work collaboratively with businesses, partners and communities to deliver services including; consulting, outsourcing, technology solutions, training and learning services and recruitment and executive placements Exuberant Group is the only organization in Pakistan and the middle-east with an extensive database of over 300 consultants from all part of the world who are experts in their area. These consultants assist in the companies’ aim to become the world’s largest management consulting firm.

Acquisition International - August 2017 77

Assessing Mental Capacity 1706AI15

Company: TSF Consultants Name: Tim Farmer Email: info@tsfconsultants.co.uk Web: www.tsfconsultants.co.uk Address: 7 Nelson Street, Stroud, Gloucestershire, GL5 2HL UK Phone: +44 (0)333 577 7020

Assessing Mental Capacity Established in 2011, TSF Consultants are recognised as the leaders in the provision of mental capacity assessments. They were awarded the coveted title of Mental Capacity Assessor - Firm of the Year 2017, by Lawyer monthly. They have also been given the Most Highly Regarded Expert Witnesses 2017 accolade this year by Acquisition Intl, after which we spoke to the firm’s founder, Tim Farmer to learn more about the firm’s mental assessment service.

SF Consultants believes that every individual is a person - who has the right to be the best that they can be and should be treated with respect and dignity always, in accordance with the core values of empathy, compassion and knowledge.

T

The firm’s founder, Tim Farmer is acknowledged as one of the UK’s leading experts in the assessment of mental capacity. He is a registered mental health nurse with over 20 years’ experience of working with individuals with reduced capacity and is the best-selling author on the assessment of capacity.

Tim revels to us the coverage of the firm’s work across the UK, something of the journey they have taken since 2011 and what their mission is when it comes to helping people.

“We have over 50 assessors across the UK giving us truly national coverage. 99% of our assessments occur in the individual’s home, at a time of their choosing. This enables us to ensure they feel safe and to that they can be at their optimum, during the assessment. All our assessors are either health or social care professionals and they are all recognised by the Court of Protection, as well as the Office of the Public Guardian.

“Since being established in 2011, our reputation has continued to grow with the result that in 2013, we gained our first international client. Since then, the firm has had several individual’s flown into the UK, for us to assess and we have also been flown abroad to assess individuals on behalf of the Court of Protection.

“The firm’s mission is to provide the highest standard of mental capacity assessments and service to our customers. We aim to be mindful that when people approach us, they are in a time of crisis and we are to be part of the solution, not the problem. If the firm can’t help for whatever reason, we will always try and offer them a suitable alternative.”

Tim then highlights the reasons to choose this leading expert firm in the assessment of mental capacity, starting with the fast turnaround offered.

“Due to the high level of referrals, we are currently experiencing slight delays in completing assessments. Despite these delays, we are still faster than other providers. We are currently

78 Acquisition International - August 2017

recruiting to our assessor network and apologise for any inconvenience caused in the meantime. Often mental capacity doesn’t become an issue until it is too late and any delay in getting an assessment, often leads to the situation deteriorating and things getting more complex. Unfortunately, when things become more complex, they often also become more expensive in terms of legal fees and costs.

“There is currently a 3-month waiting time for submissions to be processed by the Court of Protection or The Office of the Public Guardian.

Add to that a four month wait for the outcome of a mental capacity assessment and you are suddenly looking at over half a year before you can achieve any meaningful outcome to your situation, or for your loved one. We can’t speed up the courts, but TSF Consultants can ensure that you don’t encounter any unnecessary delays.”

In closing, Tim tells us about the firm’s unrivalled expertise in the sector today.

“There are some things in life that are just too important to leave to up to any old Tom, Dick and Harry (nice as they undoubtedly are). We believe that mental capacity assessments are one of those things. It is a common mistake to think that all mental capacity assessors are equally qualified and knowledgeable. It is also a mistake to think that because someone is a doctor, nurse or social worker, then they must automatically be experts in the assessment of mental capacity.

“That is why we won’t even consider someone as an assessor unless they have at least four years’ experience of assessing mental capacity in a clinical setting. After that, they must be able to demonstrate their understanding of the implementation of the Mental Capacity Act and associated case law, to the highest level. It is a fact that less that we employ less than 1 in 10 of those that apply to work for us, because they fall below our exacting standards.

“As if this wasn’t enough, we also work closely with both barristers and solicitors to ensure that our understanding of the Mental Capacity Act and all associated case law is correct, so that you can be sure the outcome you receive is the right outcome.

It is no coincidence that we are considered the goto experts within the legal profession. Use Tom, Dick and Harry to mow your lawn, but please think twice about using them to assess mental capacity.”

The Best Possible Defence 1706AI19

Company: Kollmann, Wolm Rechtsanwälte Name: Philipp Wolm Email: office@kw-anwaelte.com Web: www.kw-anwaelte.com Address: 1080 Wien Lederergasse 22/16 Phone: +43 1 402 61 00

The Best Possible Defence Kollmann, Wolm Rechtsanwälte specialises in criminal law. As winner of the 2017 Most Innovative Austrian Law Firm, we invited the firm to provide an insightful profile of their impressive and reputable work. aving specialised in this the area of criminal law and garnered a wealth of relevant experience, Kollmann, Wolm Rechtsanwälte can guarantee the highest degree of competence and expertise, in delicate situations.

H

We accept assignments in all areas of criminal defence – throughout the country and at all levels of the judicial system. We also specialise in preventive counselling on commercial criminal law. We offer training tailored to your individual requirements – to convey matters of criminal law clearly and in a practice-oriented manner.

Incidentally, outside criminal law, we work with a network of highly qualified experts, including lawyers, litigation consultants, tax consultants and auditors.

For companies, our aim is to ensure the consequences of any investigative proceedings are as minor as possible and to avoid reputational damage. Kollmann, Wolm Rechtsanwälte ensures that companies are represented effectively.

If applicable, we clarify issues of relevance to criminal law in the company independently of government investigations, carry out employee interviews and prepare expositions of the facts for the investigating authorities. We also represent employees affected by investigative measures of this kind.

Dr. Lukas Kollmann’s

Philipp Wolm

My colleague, Dr. Lukas Kollmann’s areas of expertise are: criminal law and criminal procedural law, criminal appeal procedures, commercial criminal law, corporate criminal law, internal investigations, corruption-related criminal law, extradition law and penitentiary law. He speaks both German and English.

My own expertise is in the following areas: criminal law and criminal procedural law, compliance, internal investigations, narcotic criminal law, custody law, penitentiary law, commercial criminal law. I speak both German and English.

We can help you in several ways. When it comes to traditional criminal defence, we focus on the defence of individuals. In doing so, our defence strategies always focus on the fastest possible settlement of proceedings. The firm’s work is based on personal commitment, a consistent approach to the investigative authorities, many years’ professional experience and outstanding legal expertise.

For the representation of companies, the firm’s aim is always to ensure the consequences of any investigative proceedings are as minor as possible and to avoid reputational damage. We always ensure that companies are represented effectively.

Kollmann, Wolm Rechtsanwälte advises conglomerates and SMEs in the preparation and implementation of criminal law compliance programmes and offer employees training in this respect.

If applicable, we clarify issues of relevance to criminal law in the company independently of government investigations, carry out employee interviews and prepare expositions of the facts for the investigating authorities. We also represent employees affected by investigative measures of this kind.

So, in closing, what can you expect from us?

• Personal support in negotiations, interrogations or house searches; • A consistent approach towards investigative authorities in the interest of clients; • The fastest possible settlement of proceedings as the core of our defence strategies and; • A fair and comprehensible fee structure.

Acquisition International - August 2017 79

Delivering High-Quality Results 1706AI38

Company: Oscós Abogados Name: Darío U. Oscós Coria Email: contact@ oscosabogados.com.mx Web: www.oscosabogados. com.mx Address: Paseo del Río (Joaquín Gallo) No. 53 Chimalistac, Del. Coyoacan.

C.P. 04340 México, D.F. Phone: +52 (55) 1253 0100

Delivering High-Quality Results Oscós Abogados is a high-profile boutique practice, that specialises in both domestic and international conflicts. To mark their success in achieving the Leading Dispute Resolution Adviser of the Year – Mexico, within the Leading Adviser 2017 Awards, we invited the firm to provide a short profile of their highly respected and valued work. scós Abogados is a high-profile boutique practice, boasting a rich experience and technical expertise in handling insolvency, reorganisation, creditor’s rights, bankruptcy, litigation, alternative dispute resolutions, product liability within a wide variety of industries. The firm is based in Coyoacán, one of the 16 boroughs of the Federal District of Mexico City.

O

The industries that Oscós Abogados is concerned with range from banking, finance, securities, energy, oil, gas, construction, real estate, industrial property, copyright and commercial companies to telecommunications and business in general, commercial or civil.

80 Acquisition International - August 2017

In addition, Oscós Abogados has been involved in major cross-border and domestic insolvency, litigation and arbitration cases in Mexico. The firm has built up a strong reputation for delivering highquality results, in both a discreet and timely fashion.

Please feel free to contact us, to learn more.

The Addictive Habit of Winning 1706AI43

Company: Phoenix The Creative Studio Name: Fouad Mallouk Email: info@phoenix.cool Web: phoenix.cool Address: 384, Saint-Jacques Street, suite 101 Montreal (Qc), H2Y 1S1 Canada Phone: +1 514 448 1618

The Addictive Habit of Winning Phoenix (The Creative Studio) sets out to ensure that clients receive the visibility they deserve, benefit from an increased notoriety for all the good reasons only, unless mischief is the name of their game. As winner of the Leading Web Design Consultant of the Year – Canada, we interviewed President, Fouad Mallouk to find out how this firm thinks outside the box.

hoenix The Creative Studio, is not afraid to think outside whatever is outside the box, to find the marketing strategy that will make you go from hero to superhero. You can look at what this firm does in a couple of ways. Some describe them as a humanscale studio whose artisans design interactions to generate emotions and connect with brands. Others believe they create the alchemy of inspiration from mixing the blood of a design team with the ashes of the phoenix. Flip a coin and see which one you get!

P

The firm’s seasoned experience and awards received are the first two points that the firm’s President, Fouad Mallouk impresses upon us.

“The fact is that the firm’s creative audacity and technical prowess, have already won more than 50 major awards and over 300 international mentions for the work we’ve done on behalf of our clients.”

“Phoenix The Creative Studio are not tied to old, tired, cliché and overdone ideas. The firm stands out and we want you to stand out. For over 10 years, we have outdone ourselves in every project have tackled, whether it consisted of graphic design, web development, marketing or going to the pub. The firm’s new team of fresh and open young minds, ensures that we will continue providing innovation to clients. We are equipped and eager to bring you both unconventional ideas and unexpected strategies, to help you reach your goals in style.

“We understand every communication is an opportunity to change people’s perception of your product or your brand - and to trigger a chain reaction that will transform or even transmogrify your position in the market. Think of what we do as performing a lifting on your brand. People will notice!

“In the last few years, the creative crew at Phoenix The Creative Studio has been lauded and acclaimed relentlessly, winning many national

and international mentions, including Best Small Agency of 2015, 9 Sites of the Day on Awards, 8 Sites of the day on CSS Design Awards, 3 Sites of the Month, 3 FWA and a lot more. Phoenix The Creative Studio plans on making this kind of success a habit and as such, we do what it takes to achieve just that. We do not clone magic geese nor pearl-bearing oysters, so please stop asking!”

On the technology employed and the importance of creating brand creates brand experiences that engage people, Fouad is eager to outline more of this.

“Technology, specifically the internet and its digital derivatives, have been accepted and adopted globally. Yet somehow, people and businesses still underestimate its power and ROI. Furthermore, they have trouble keeping up with consumers’ new expectations and fast-changing markets. This is where we come into play.

“By merging interaction and emotion, Phoenix The Creative Studio creates brand experiences that engage people. How I hear you ask? Well, we do this by reinventing them for the new interactive age, breaking with industry standards and keeping them relevant and enjoyable so people connect through them. Because when you connect with people, people let their guards down.

“The fact is that the firm’s creative audacity and technical prowess, have already won more than 50 major awards and over 300 international mentions for the work we’ve done on behalf of our clients.

Winning is an addictive habit. So, talk to us. Before you know it, you’ll be addicted too.

Finally, Fouad sums up the marvellous services provided by Phoenix The Creative Studio.

“The firm’s services include graphic design, branding, marketing strategies, photography, video production, advertising design, viral marketing campaigns, television advertising, promotional posters, online marketing, website creation, logo design, animation and print. If you are looking for a good serving of innovation, artistic flair and creativity to permeate your new marketing strategy, you have found the right people for the task at hand.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 81

Support and Guidance Every Step of the Way 1706AI44

Company: Ross Estate Agencies Name: Jo Ward Email: sales@ rossestateagencies.co.uk Web: rossestateagencies.com Address: 16-18 Cavendish Street, Barrow-In-Furness, LA14 1SB UK Phone: +44 (0)1229 825 636

Support and Guidance Every Step of the Way Ross Estate Agencies are specialists in all aspects of estate agency including residential sales, commercial sales, mortgage services. As Leading Real Estate Adviser of the Year – UK, as part of the Leading Adviser 2017 Awards, we invited the firm’s Jo Ward to tell us about the mortgage services offered. oss Estate Agencies are a local, independent, family firm established in 1935. They are based in BarrowIn-Furness in Cumbria, North West England and has offices in Dalton and Ulverston.

They provide the following services: • Sales; • Rental; • Commercial; • Value my property and; • Mortgages.

R

This short profile focuses on the latter, mortgage services. Choosing the right mortgage can be a daunting exercise. There are so many factors to consider including set up fees, early repayment charges and porting your existing mortgage. Our mortgage advisor looks at a range of lenders, to be able to offer you a mortgage to suit your needs. We are here to offer support and guidance every step of the way.

There is no fee for your initial consultation, in fact there will only be a charge should you get a mortgage offer. Call us today to book your appointment. We always aim to provide a highquality service to our customers.

However, if you encounter any problems and we are unable to resolve them you can take your complaint to an independent Ombudsman. Our advice is covered under the Financial Ombudsman Service (www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk/consumer/ complaints.htm).

82 Acquisition International - August 2017

You may be able to submit a claim through the EU Online Dispute Resolution Platform (https:// ec.europa.eu/consumers/odr/main/index. cfm?event=main.home.chooseLanguage) if you live outside the United Kingdom or if you prefer not to deal directly with the Financial Ombudsman Service.)

Here is a selection of reviews about the firm’s work.

“Highly recommend Ross Estate Agencies, in particular the Dalton branch. Exactly two months from our house being valued, we had completed on the sale and moved out! Great communication along the way and a very friendly team.”

Sami Richardson “Couldn’t fault Ross Estate Agencies at all when selling our home! Jo from the Dalton branch made everything seem so so easy! Jo, you are a credit to Ross’. Thank you for everything and thankyou to Ross Estate Agencies!”

Amber Taylor “Martin has been fantastic sorting our mortgage, very professional but also friendly and reassuring. Excellent communication, great service! Thanks very much.”

Naomi Shaw

The Art of Driving Consumer Action 1706AI48

The Art of Driving Consumer Action Intelligent Advertising Company has been around since 2007 and is based in Khartoum, Sudan. To celebrate their success in achieving the Leading Brand Activation Agency in Sudan accolade, as part of the 2017 Global Excellence Awards, we invited the company to provide a flavour of the work they do.

Company: Intelligent Advertising Company Name: Wail Dagash Email: Hello@getnoticed-sd.com Web: getnoticed-sd.com Address: Badr Street, Al Taief, Khartoum, Sudan Phone: +249 12 300 0786

n 2007, Intelligent Advertising Company opened our doors, as the pioneers of brand activations. Today we are a game changing, strategically driven business servicing progressive brands in Sudan. Intelligent Advertising has had the privilege of working with some of Sudan’s most progressive brands across diverse sectors such as telecom, automotive, FMCG, sports and even Presidential.

I

A monumental shift in brand experience, has caused such activations to rise to the forefront of marketing.

Marketers now understand the importance of live engagement and creating brand experiences, versus solely relying on mass media communications.

“In environments like Sudan, integration, managing complex logistical and back-end issues are massive on-ground challenges, thus in-house hardware gives the added advantage of focusing delivery on higher service levels.”

Brand activation is a new marketing discipline. It’s the art of driving consumer action through brand interaction and experiences. It’s about bringing brands to life via experiences, forming long-term emotional connections and hence creating loyalty - the backbone of strong brands.

In response, we help brands to proactively lead rather than follow their customers by designing and/or executing superior customer journeys that are personalised, contextual and innovative. Most importantly, we deliver on our promises, creating experiences and events that are effective, on budget and on time.

Our mission it to: • Re-ignite brands; • Create talkability/word of mouth buzz; • Educate consumers; • Increase sales; • Build loyal communities and; • Deliver quantifiable results.

Our rules of engagement are simple. We devise and deliver one-on-one experiences during the consumer journey – on-ground, online and

everywhere in between that drive consumers to act – and interact – with your brand to deliver measurable results, foster long-term emotional connections and elevate it above the clutter.

The aim is to influence consumer behaviour and turn shoppers into buyers. We do this through proven and tested operations, by • Mobile marketing tours & roadshows; • Experiential & event marketing; • Grassroots & guerrilla marketing; • Millennial and key influencer engagement; • Product sampling; • Retail & in-store interaction; • Social media content integration; • Sponsorship activation and; • Competitions & fulfilment.

We strive to deliver brand experiences that engage all the senses: seeing, hearing, sensing, touching and tasting. Immersive experiences that stay true to brands, are the ones that we all remember.

As we understand the mindset of the local Sudanese consumer, we execute brand activation strategies that both engage and influence the Sudanese consumer, through the following four points of consumer empowerment: • Discover/consider; • Engage/evaluate; • Try/experience and; • Activate/buy.

In this postmodern society, brand challenges include behavioural change and digital tools putting the consumer in the driving seat whilst fighting tooth and nail to reach the millennials, this notoriously choosey generation, housewives, kids and other targets alike to create experiences we can share.

“In environments like Sudan, integration, managing complex logistical and back-end issues are massive on-ground challenges, thus in-house hardware gives the added advantage of focusing delivery on higher service levels.”

Employing a full time team of 20+ members, and fully owning its street hardware and toolkits, and continue to re-invest in unique assets. That’s why we say ‘we are Sudan’s leading Brand Activation Agency - the Gurus!

Acquisition International - August 2017 83

A Mass of Activities 1706AI52

St. Teresa’s Youth Group Sacred Heart & St Teresa’s Church Wilmslow Company: St. Teresa’s Youth Group Sacred Heart & St Teresa’s Church Wilmslow Name: Ben Kowalewicz Email: ben@styg.co.uk Web: www.stteresawilmslow.org Address: Green Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 1LD UK Phone: +44 (0)1625 523 584

A Mass of Activities St. Teresa’s Youth Group, hosted by the Sacred Heart & St Teresa’s Church Wilmslow, was pleased to be the exclusive UK winner of the 2017 Business Elite award. To celebrate, we profiled both the history and work of this Cheshire based church, in the UK.

he Diocese of Shrewsbury was founded in 1850, with its few missions in Cheshire being found mostly in the larger towns such as Birkenhead and Stockport.

Within a generation, the number of churches increased substantially, new missions were founded, particularly in the eastern part of the county in towns and villages bordering the railway lines.

T

The Catholic Church in Wilmslow dates from 1873 and a tablet commemorating the first Rector of the mission, Father John Coulson, can be seen in the narthex of the church. There is another tablet below it commemorating early benefactors. The English missions became parishes under Canon Law only in 1908, when the church in this country ceased to be under the supervision of the Congregation for the Propagation of the Faith.

The first church was situated in Alma Lane, close to the present site of Wilmslow Fire Station and the presbytery was close by. However, in 1900 the Diocese of Shrewsbury was given land by the Trustees of the De Trafford family for the sole purposes of church, presbytery, parish hall and parish school. The church was built between 1911 and 1914, to the design of William Gillow, a member of the distinguished Lancashire Catholic family.

Unhappily, Gillow died shortly after the completion of the church and the construction of the presbytery was delayed until the mid-1920s. The builders were Browns of Wilmslow. The site is a prime one in the centre of what is now a town.

Gillow’s interior has been modified twice, once in the 1980s and more recently in 2008-9. The structure remains in excellent condition. The organ

by Hardy of Stockport, was built in 1894 for a church in Marple and was placed in Saint Teresa’s in 1914. The Stations of the Cross were painted by a Benedictine nun of Talacre Abbey between 1923 and 1925, the copyright being sold to the Parish Priest for the sum of £1! The Shrine of Our Lady dates from 1957.

The separate statue of Our Lady of Wilmslow, recalling a medieval devotion, has been placed in the narthex. As part of the more recent changes within the church, a separate Baptistery has been designed. The plinths of the font and of the tabernacle are identical in design.

84 Acquisition International - August 2017

Father Anthony Cogliolo is the parish priest of Sacred Heart and Saint Teresa Wilmslow, in the Diocese of Shrewsbury. He was ordained in 1969 at St. Paul’s Outside the Walls, Rome after studying for the priesthood at the Beda College in Rome, between 1965 and 1969.

He returned to the Diocese of Shrewsbury and served as assistant priest in Bromborough, Altrincham, New Brighton, between 1969 and 1980.

He then served as the Parish Priest in Tarporley, Romiley, Ashton-on-Mersey and Weaverham before his appointment to Wilmslow during 2005 Father Cogliolo has the following degrees: B.A (Politics and Modern History) M.A. (Theology) and has recently been awarded a Doctorate in Religious Studies by the University of Wales.

In addition to hosting St. Teresa’s Youth Group, the parish is also served by several Catholic Schools: • St Benedict’s Primary School, Handforth; • All Hallows Catholic College, Macclesfield; • St Ambrose College, Altrincham; • Loreto Grammar School, Altrincham and; • St Bede’s College, Manchester.

Following baptism, the church offers the following sacraments for young people: First Communion In the middle of November each year, information will be placed in the church bulletin, asking for parents who feel their children are old enough to receive the sacrament, to attend an initial meeting with their children. After that the children will attend regular classes on their own. The celebration takes place annually. Depending on numbers, this may take place in conjunction with St. Pius X either in St. Teresa’s or St. Pius.

Confirmation A notice will be placed in the bulletin asking children if they consider they are ready to take the sacrament. They will then meet with Father Cogliolo who will prepare them. The Celebration of the Sacrament, is presided by Bishop Mark. The venue changes each year throughout the LPA.

▓ IP Right Prosecution & Litigation ▓ Corporate Legal & Consulting ▓ IP Value-Added Services Since 1992 ...

Territories: Taiwan, Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau Fields: Mechanics, Chemistry, Pharmacy, Biology, Electronics, Optics, Telecommunications, and Computer Sciences

§ Quality | Reliable | Invaluable § Focus Patents, Trademarks, Copyrights, Trade Secrets, Unfair Competition Licensing, Counseling, Litigation, Transaction Features Our patent attorneys and patent engineers hold outstanding and advanced academic degrees We are dedicated to provide the best quality service in IPRs Our international clients include InterDigital, Gleason, Grenzebach, Beckhoff, NovaLed, BYD, Baidu, Schott Glas, MPS, Lenovo, Oppo, Cypress, Haribo, Armani, CICC, Sun Pharma, Intercept, Torrent, Lupin, P iramal Philosophy To provide competent legal services that other firms cannot comparably provide Selecting, edifying and nurturing peoples who have the following personalities: learned in expertise, morally earnest and sincerely behaved in mind and strictly disciplined between give and take  Address: 13th Floor, 27, Sec. 3, Chung San N. Road, Taipei, Taiwan  Telephone: 886-2-25856688  Fax: 886-2-25989900/25978989  E-mail: email@deepnfar.com.tw  Web site: http://www.deepnfar.com.tw

M&A in Healthcare Company: Bureau van Dijk E-Mail: bvd@bvdinfo.com Web: www.bvdinfo.com

2017 started well in terms of the aggregate value of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) targeting companies in the healthcare sector, according to Zephyr, the M&A database published by Bureau van Dijk.

In all there were 1,041 deals worth a combined $20,221 million targeting companies in the sector announced in the first half of the year.

n terms of value, this result represents a decline on the $24,582 million-worth of deal making recorded in the second half of last year, although it is up on the $19,411 million injected in H1 2016. As such, 2017 to date has surpassed the same point in 2016 in terms of value. This will give many hope for a prolific H2 which can beat the $24,582 million recorded in H2 2016.

Other deals which were worth more than $1,000 million during 2017 to date include a $1,926 million takeover of French clinical testing laboratories operator Cerba Healthcare and a $1,000 million purchase of US genetic diagnostics software developer Ambry Genetics. These four deals combined account for 40% of the $22,381 millionworth of deal making recorded in 2017 to date at the time of writing.

Although the first half of this year has been very promising in terms of the aggregate value of deals recorded, it was still surpassed by a few other H1 periods, namely H1 2007 ($30,244 million), H1 2011 ($23,954 million), H1 2014 ($22,493 million) and H1 2015 ($27,323 million). Nevertheless, the result marked an improvement on H1 2013 ($16,332 million), H1 2012 ($13,034 million) and H1 2010 ($13,362 million), among other six month periods.

Given the fact that three of the aforementioned deals featured US targets, it is unsurprising to note that North America has attracted the most value of all world regions in 2017 to date. In all the region, has been targeted in deals worth a combined $11,684 million, placing it well ahead of secondplaced Western Europe, which attracted deal making of $4,783 million, while the Far East and Central Asia and Oceania came third and fourth with $2,831 million and $2,596 million, respectively.

The results for 2017 to date have been boosted by several sizeable deals as four transactions broke the $ 1,000 million-barrier. The most valuable of all involved a US company as surgical centres operator Surgical Care Affiliates was acquired by UnitedHealth Group for $3,600 million. This was followed by a $2,500 million takeover of air medical transportation company Air Methods by American Securities, via its ASP AMC Intermediate Holdings vehicle.

Of the $11,684 million injected into North American companies during 2017 to date, $7,210 million took place in Q1, while $2,963 million followed in Q2 and $1,511 million in Q3. North America’s performance is so impressive that the region has already attracted more value within the healthcare sector in 2017 to date than it did for the whole of 2016 ($11,539 million).

I

86 Acquisition International - August 2017

In conclusion, 2017 has started well and results are promising, if not record-breaking, for the year to date. The healthcare sector has been targeted via several large deals and continued interest in the segment as we move into the second half of the year should ensure the year performs well as a whole when compared to preceding years.

M&A in Healthcare

Number and Aggregate Value (mil $) of Healthcare Deals Globally: Q3 2012 - Q3 2017

Number and Aggregate Value (Mil USD) of Helathcare Deals Globally

by Target Sector: 2017 YTD

Deal Number half yearly value of deals (Announced date)

Aggregate deal value (mil $)

Zephus classification (target)

Number of deals

Aggregate deal value (mil $)

Q3 2017

122

2,160

1,101

19,320

Q2 2017

515

7,885

Q1 2017

526

12,337

Public Administration, Education, Health Social Services

1,178

479

10,458

Computer, IT and Internet services

13

Q4 2016 Q3 2016

513

14,124

Retailing

51

704

Banking, Insurance & Financial Services

22

673

Chemicals, Petroleum, Rubber & Plastic

3

363

Personal, Leisure & Business Services

37

248

Wholesaling

12

234

Property Services

7

123

Transport, Freight, Storage & Travel Services

4

47

Construction

3

19

2

8

Q2 2016

498

7,033

Q1 2016

506

12,378

Q4 2015

540

21,785

Q3 2015

502

18,247

Q2 2015

417

16,610

Q1 2015

421

10,713

Q4 2014

421

12,806

Q3 2014

409

11,359

Q2 2014

452

12,766

Q1 2014

368

9,727

Q4 2013

399

9,160

Metals & Metal Products

Q3 2013

373

18,209

Mining & Extraction

2

8

Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals and Life Sciences

1

7

Hotels and Restaurants

3

0

Q2 2013

402

10,251

Q1 2013

364

6,081

Q4 2012

402

6,652

Q3 2012

355

9,845

Consumer Retail M&A The second quarter of 2017 was extremely impressive in terms of the value of M&A deals targeting companies in the consumer retail sector. In all there were 686 deals worth $58,138 million announced over the course of the three months, according to Zephyr, the M&A database published by Bureau van Dijk.

Q2 was a particularly impressive quarter and marked a significant improvement on the opening three months of the year in terms of value (Q1 2017: $15,279 million). Undoubtedly, one of the year’s higher profile deals had a big impact on overall results; Amazon’s agreement to acquire natural and organic food retailer Whole Foods for $13,700 million is the largest deal to have been announced during 2017 within the consumer retail sector and accounts for 24% of the $58,138 million-worth of deal making recorded in Q2.

It was followed by another transaction with a big-name target as Sycamore Partners signed on the dotted line to pick up stationery store operator Staples for $6,900 million. In all there have been 14 deals worth more than $1,000 million featuring consumer retail targets signed off during the year to date, with all the top five featuring US targets.

Number and Aggregate Value (Mil USD) of Healthcare Deals Globally

by Deal Type: 2006-2017 YTD Deal type

Number of deals

Aggregate deal value (mil $)

Acquisition

6,749

239,491

Institutional buy-out Minority stake Capital increase Management buy-out

699 6,930 835 74

135,048 80,077 24,787 2,502

Merger

89

42

Number of Healthcare Deals by Region: Q3 2016 - Q3 2017 World region (target) North America

Q3 2016

Q4 2016

Q1 2017

Q2 2017

Q3 2017

1,247

2,188

7,210

2,963

1,511

Far East and Central Asia Western Europe Oceania Africa

2,530 8,161 1,980 4

2,367 4,107 704 90

1,022 3,099 678 1

1,411 1,495 1,882 0

395 189 36 11

Middle East Eastern Europe South and Central America

44 10 149

760 5 224

112 21 182

14 42 78

2 0 0

Given the prevalence of US targets within the year’s largest deals to date, North America’s position at the top of the regional value rankings is to be expected. The region has so far been targeted in deals worth a combined $44,441 million during 2017. This represents over double secondplaced Western Europe, which was targeted in deals worth $20,697 million. Third place was taken by the Far East and Central Asia with $5,298 million.

Taking all these developments into account, 2017 has started very well, largely due to Q2’s impressive value result. The $73,417 million recorded for H1 2017 has been surpassed by only three six month periods since the start of 2006, namely H1 2007 ($106,064 million), H2 2014 ($83,247 million) and H1 2015 ($74,951 million). This leaves high hopes for H2. If these deals making levels can be sustained, we could be looking at a very positive year in terms of M&A activity in the consumer retail sector.

Acquisition International - August 2017 87

ICD helps private sector businesses to finance projects by providing a wide range of Sharia compliant services

Winners’ Directory

Ones to Watch in US Finance Company: The Brand Law Firm, P.A. Name: Craig Brand Email: Craig@TheBrandLawFirm.com Web Address: www.thebrandlawfirm.com Address: 3390 Mary Street, Suite 116, Coconut Grove, Florida, 33133 USA Telephone: +1 305 8781 477 Ones to Watch in US Finance Company: The Citizens Bank of Philadelphia Name: Jackie Hester Email: jhester@tcbphila.com Web Address: www.tcbphila.com Address: 515 Main Street, Mississippi, 39350 USA Telephone: +1 601 389 3333 2017 Ones to Watch in M&A Company: Banque Profil de Gestion SA Name: Fiorenzo Manganiello Email: FManganiello@bpdg.ch Web Address: bpdg.ch Address: Cours de Rive 11, Geneva 1204 Switzerland Telephone: +41 (0) 22 818 31 82 Top 50 in Technology Company: Elisa Eesti AS Name: Toomas Polli Email: toomas.polli@elisa.ee Web Address: www.elisa.ee Address: Sõpruse pst. 145, Tallinn, 13417, Estonia Telephone: +372 56 35 3336

Acquisition International - August 2017 89

EXCELLENCE A 2

W

A 0

R

D 1

S 7

Most Outstanding Insurance In-House Attorney GE170017

Company: AIA International Limited Contact: Vinci WS Hon Title: General Counsel Email: Vinci-WS.Hon@aia.com Address: Unit 1004, 10/F., AIA Hong Kong Tower, 734 King’s Road, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong Phone: 852 22030182

Most Outstanding Insurance In-House Attorney AIA is the largest independent publicly listed pan-Asian life insurance group – with a presence in 18 markets across the Asia-Pacific region. We spoke to General Counsel of Hong Kong and Macau Branch, Ms Vinci WS Hon to find out more.

IA is on a mission to be the world’s pre-eminent life insurance provider, which is reflected in how it supports its clients and staff. Vinci outlines how she contributes to this aim through her role.

A

“AIA is a life insurance company and of long operating history. Personally, my special area of practice is insurance and financial services.

As the in-house lawyer of this big and growing organisation, it is important that I stay innovative and proactive in my practice. We believe high cultural engagement is necessary to deliver good quality client service. Therefore my legal practice is to support this value proposition.”

92 Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards

Ultimately, Vinci is keen to highlight her dedication to excellence and explain how she came to win this prestigious award.

“Overall, I feel extremely delighted to receive this award and I think the main contributor is my team who supports me in their difference areas of excellence. Other than strong legal knowledge, I promote mobility and empowerment in our legal team so that our advice can be value added in the commercial context.”

Best Family Law Firm GE170028

Sebastian Rubera & Associates Pty Ltd Company: Sebastian Rubera & Associates Pty Ltd Contact: Sebastian Rubera Email: reception@ sebastianruberalawyers.com.au Address: 1st Floor, 347-349 King Street, Melbourne, VIC 3003, Australia Phone: 0061 9329 1458

Best Family Law Firm Sebastian Rubera & Associates is a Melbourne based law firm focusing on family law firm. We invited Founder Sebastian Rubera to learn more about the firm and the services it provides.

ebastian Rubera & Associates has been in the area of Family Law in the sense that the Firm provides a holistic approach to this area of Law. Clients with relationship problems generally suffer from limiting patterns of behaviour which make resolution of their particular issues very difficult, as Sebastian explains.

“Overall, our objective is to provide our clients with answers to legal questions in a peaceful, tranquil environment and to support our clients emotionally in the process. It is my belief that a tranquil environment particularly where a client is suffering from emotional distress creates an atmosphere which is conducive to resolution and to facilitate decisions to be made with openness and clarity.”

“Our Award has been in the area of Family Law in the sense that the Firm provides a holistic approach to this area of Law. Clients with relationship problems generally suffer from limiting patterns of behaviour which make resolution of their particular issues very difficult.

Moving forward, Sebastian and his team will continue to offer clients the solutions they need to succeed, as he concludes.

S

“Through our work we have provided an environment to assist both with legal and emotional support as emotional issues often cloud clear judgement and make for unreasonable behaviour and decisions which are at times regrettable.

“Ultimately, working with a variety of clients means providing a range of services and different support.

In relation to the corporate clients the environment still has an impact and assists clear thinking and a clear decision making process. Of course, the commercial clients and the Family Law clients have quite different requirements and the level of support is also quite different, and as such we are constantly looking to adapt our processes to meet their needs, which will remain our ongoing focus.”

Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards 93

2017 Excellence Award: Most Outstanding for Salary Sacrifice Car Services GE170010

2017 Excellence Award: Most Outstanding for Salary Sacrifice Car Services Company: Fleet Evolution Ltd Contact: Andrew Leech Email: engagement@ fleetevolution.com Address: The Dovecote Pimlico Farm Austrey Lane, Tamworth, B79 0PF, UK Phone: 0844 848 3455

Fleet Evolution is a Tamworth based firm providing a wide range of salary sacrifice car services, from a fully managed salary sacrifice car scheme to specialist partnerships for a key area of concern. We caught up with Andrew Leech to find out more about the innovative solutions the company provides. mployee Car Schemes are one of the fastest growing employee benefits and since 2010 Fleet Evolution’s award winning approach has made such schemes accessible to all with virtually no admin and no risk to the employer.

E

“Here at Fleet Evolution, we offer a range of employee car schemes to suit all, from salary sacrifice, our best value scheme saving the employee up to 45% compared to retail with no employer cost nor leaver risk to employee car ownership schemes. Our overall mission is to make employee car schemes as widely adopted as other salary sacrifice benefits such as cyclescheme and childcare vouchers. It has already been approved

by HMRC at a similar level and our implementation strategy makes it less hassle than other salary sacrifice benefits, however the adoption is typically higher as well over 90% of employees have a car currently, a new car for the same cost as a 4/5 year old model is a no brainer for employees.

“No longer does a green car mean a compromise, from £20,000 family cars that cover 200 miles on a single battery charge to supercars covering more than 300 miles at under 3 seconds 0-60mph. This is an exciting world and we are ready to enter it as we explore more sustainable vehicles.”

“When we set up in 2010 salary sacrifice car schemes were complex, hindered with employer risk and only available to the larger employers, we wanted to remove the obstacles to all employers offering such a valuable benefit and 7 years on

94 Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards

we have introduced schemes to employers from 3 employees up to 10,000 delivered in a couple of days with no employer cost or leaver risk at all.

This approach is truly revolutionary but our real differentiator is our engagement strategy ensuring that the benefit is loved by employees. A car is the second biggest expense for most employees, we remove some of the cost and all of the hassle. A simple monthly deduction covers everything but fuel for the employee and the employer just facilitates the payment with a corresponding payroll deduction.”

Sustainability is a key focus of the industry currently, and Andrew is keen to outline the developments he is seeing in this space.

“Within the wider corporate car market, green cars and we work with manufacturers to ensure that they are aware of our customer’s employees’ needs and our customer’s employees are up to speed with the latest development. No longer does a green car mean a compromise, from £20,000 family cars that cover 200 miles on a single battery charge to supercars covering more than 300 miles at under 3 seconds 0-60mph. This is an exciting world and we are ready to enter it as we explore more sustainable vehicles.”

As he looks towards the future, Andrew is excited for the various developments that his firm has in store.

“Fundamentally, at Fleet Evolution we are already evolving the strategy we pioneered to salary sacrifice cars to another monolith, employee car schemes, currently the alternative to a company car for companies employing over 2,000 people we are bringing this valuable benefit to the SME sector. Other initiatives include a revolutionary fleet management product where clients pay anything until we demonstrate savings. Overall, we are looking forward to showcasing these latest innovations and highlighting the level of excellence we offer to our clients, both existing and future.”

Most Influential Businesswoman: Hospitality GE170001

Company: HMG Plus Contact: Karen DiPeri Email: kdiperi@hmgplus.com Address: 265 West 37th Street, Suite 907, New York, NY 10018, USA Phone: 001 646 661-1021

Most Influential Businesswoman: Hospitality HMG Plus is a front of the house hospitality service firm, focusing on staffing and training, providing professional servers, bartenders, captains, coat check attendants and promotional staff for all types of events, as well as customized training programs for food service entities. We caught up with Karen DiPeri to learn more and explore her role in the firm’s success.

MG+ is a quality-focused hospitality event solutions provider with deep experience in a wide variety of hospitality disciplines, delivering the expertise their clients need to thrive as a food service provider or business today. Karen outlines how the firm works to ensure excellence for its clients and provide the very highest standards of service and support.

H

“Here at HMG+ we provide professional servers, bartenders, captains, coat check attendants and promotional staff for all types of events, as well as customized training programs for food service entities. We service the New York Metro area and are currently expanding to Long Island, NY. Some of our clients include household names such as Goldman Sachs, United Nations, Bloomberg, Citi, Johnson & Johnson, Pepsi, Capital One, NY Giants and American Express.

“For these clients, our mission is simple; to deliver outstanding service professionals to each event location. We are passionate about being the company everyone wants to work for, and having fun while doing it. The vision is to elevate the hospitality staffing industry providing a level of organization, integrity and professionalism.”

Operating in the highly competitive hospitality market, HMG+ has to work hard to differentiate itself from its competition, which it achieves through a supportive internal culture and a commitment to success for its clients, as Karen who personally became an active member of as many industry organizations as possible because collaborating with like-minded industry professionals because it fuels her passion for learning and commitment to excellence, explains.

“What separates HMG+ apart from the competition is we set out to build a company where job opportunities are numerous and employee flexibility is key. We focused on providing innovative tools, like our web platform for booking. Helping service pros manage their bookings and clients to manage their events. We assembled a small but strong management team of passionate individuals with

a combined 30 years of hospitality experience.

In addition to providing flexibility, we wanted to elevate the knowledge, skill and income for our employees. We spent the past year developing a business plan to launch a training academy. We offer free specialized training programs to service professionals who wish to further their knowledge in the hospitality industry, as well as offer additional resources.

“This has led to some great successes. For example, HMG+ service professional Wendy Hobbie was named National Staffing Employee of the Year by the American Staffing Association earlier this year. Additionally, we have begun to offer wellness activities for staff members, such as meditation workshops, yoga classes and massage days, which helps their performance both on and off the job.

“Practicing this supportive and collaborative approach is essential also, and as such the internal culture in our firm is very professional. Showing you care about your employees and being certain they care about the company and your vision is very important. Also, being demanding but supportive.

We offer wellness events to our employees each month to ensure a healthy lifestyle. Our team is also provided with healthy snacks to keep everyone motivated throughout the day.”

Looking to the future, Karen is keen to emphasise the firm’s focus on growth and expansion as it seeks to build upon its current success.

“At the beginning of 2017 HMG+ had the opportunity to expand and grow into the Long Island area, which we took advantage of. We are now consistently seeking more opportunity for expansion throughout the hospitality industry in order to support more clients.”

Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards 95

Best Seaside Hotel 2016 GE170011

Best Seaside Hotel 2016 Company: The Royal Hotel Contact: Jonathan Cooke Email: jonathan@ royalhotelweston.com Address: 1 South Parade, Weston-Super-Mare, BS23 1JP, UK Phone: 01934 423 100 Web: www.royalhotelweston.com

The Royal Hotel is the highest rated hotel in Weston-Super-Mare boasting excellent service, great food and glorious natural surroundings. We profile the firm to explore the secrets behind its success. he Royal Hotel we are able to offer a wide range of attractive and comfortable bedrooms. Rooms range from standard single bedded rooms, to luxurious themed four poster rooms or even superior quality family apartments. All of the hotel’s rooms have ensuite facilities with a bath and/or shower.

T

This charismatic, historic and luxuriously appointed Georgian Hotel is centrally located within Westonsuper-Mare in a unique location, enjoying both a wonderful sea view and close proximity to the promenade, town centre, Italian gardens, winter gardens, sovereign shopping centre and Jill Dando memorial garden Additionally, the hotel is ideally situated for exploring the beautiful Somerset countryside and many places of interest that are within easy travelling distance including Cheddar Caves, Wookey Hole, Mendip Hills, and the city of Bath.

Supporting a wide range of guests, children are welcomed at the hotel and the friendly and supportive staff work hard to ensure that they do everything in their power to provide the service every guest needs.

96 Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards

As such, the hotel has a range of amenities, including a gloriously appointed lounge area. The specially created Lounge at the Royal is stunning.

With its classic and vibrant décor, the lounge provides the perfect location for hotel guests to simply unwind and relax while taking in the fabulous horizon across the Hotel Lawns and Weston’s Bay. There are plenty of books to read, games to play or simply melt away with an afternoon tea.

Alongside this exceptional communal space, the hotel boasts the Golden Jubilee Restaurant, which has an excellent reputation with Hotel guests and local residents alike. As the Chef likes to create new dishes to excite all tastes, the establishment’s menus cater for all tastes and will please even the most discerning palate.

As well as the main restaurant, the Feathers Bar is open daily and offers a wide variety of bar food, from light snacks to hearty meals and a carvery.

Ultimately, the Royal Hotel epitomises the elegant Regency style that has made Weston-Super-Mare famous.

Most Outstanding M2M IoT Managed Services Company GE170014

Company: Wireless Logic Limited Contact: Sadie Robbins Email: sadierobbins@ wirelesslogic.com Address: Horizon, Honey Lane, Hurley, SL6 6RJ, UK Phone: 0330 056 3300

Most Outstanding M2M IoT Managed Services Company Wireless Logic, Europe’s leading M2M and IoT managed services provider, deliver a one-stop solution combining secure infrastructure, resilient software management platforms and multiple network connectivity, all on an unrivalled scale. We profile the firm to learn more.

stablished in 2000, today Wireless Logic works with over 1000 application providers, system integrators and enterprises, delivering a range of managed services including management and monitoring software platforms, a cloud-based private network infrastructure as well as specialist cellular and satellite connectivity.

E

In an increasingly connected world, Wireless Logic was created through the vision of co-directors Oliver Tucker and Philip Cole, to create a critically important layer between mobile networks and organisations requiring a dedicated M2M/IoT managed services solution. That layer isn’t simply about connectivity – the Wireless Logic proposition is a finely-tuned set of value-added services where the airtime is but one of many facets within the customer offering.

“Continuous investment in technology enables Wireless Logic to provide an increasing range of value-added services which include specialist mapping solutions from Google and HERE, device management platforms and end-to-end security encryption services.”

All services operate across a single unified technology platform and are designed to meet the specific needs of connected assets within the global markets of M2M and the Internet of Things (IoT).

Continuous investment in technology enables Wireless Logic to provide an increasing range of value-added services which include specialist mapping solutions from Google and HERE, device management platforms and end-to-end security encryption services.

Horizontally positioned, Wireless Logic works with hundreds of vertical applications - these include asset and vehicle tracking, telematics, metering, security, electronic payment, m-healthcare and a range of enterprise solutions.

Connected devices through Wireless Logic exceed 2.2m SIM subscriptions across over 30 European networks. Carriers include O2, Telefonica, Vodafone, Everything Everywhere, Telenor, SFR, Bouygues, Deutsche Telekom and Inmarsat. The breadth of connectivity options give customers an unrivalled choice across Europe but with a global reach.

In partnership with major mobile and satellite operators, the firm provide best-in-class managed data services to system integrators, application providers and end user clients – from global blue chip organisations to small and medium enterprises.

Maintaining Wireless Logic’s market-leading presence requires a constant lookout for valueadds that can continue to set the firm’s managed services apart from others. The organisation is now structured to capitalise on new product development with Research, Development and Delivery teams all based in-house. Always working in collaboration with external partners, the founding directors’ drive to ensure Wireless Logic remains at the forefront of the ‘M2M connected world’ is unrelenting. With initiatives such as the exclusive relationships with Google and HERE, MapPro delivers inclusive managed services, connectivity and mapping solutions in seamless, comprehensive packages.

Wireless Logic is focused on delivering ‘first to market’ solutions that embrace the fast-moving and evolving technologies available.

To support the organisation’s ambitious growth plans across Europe, in 2015, CVC Capital Partners joined the board of Wireless Logic. Moving forward these growth plans will remain the firm’s ongoing focus as it seeks to grow even further and capitalise on its current, market leading success.

Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards 97

GE170022

Company: Institute of Microbiology Chinese Academy of Sciences Contact: George GAO Email: gaof@im.ac.cn Web: english.im.cas.cn/au/bi/ Address: Beijing Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District Court No. 1 No. 3, 100101, China Phone: 0086-10-64807462

Best Pathogens & Immunology Research Institute - Beijing The Institute of Microbiology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (IMCAS) is the largest microbiological research institution in China.

We profile this innovative research provider to learn more. stablished in 1958, through the merger of the Institute of Applied Mycology and the Beijing Laboratories of Microbiology, both of which were affiliated to the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), IMCAS was initially located in Zhongguancun, Haidian District, Beijing. In early 2007, the major part of the Institute was relocated to the CAS Life Science Park near the Olympic Village in Chaoyang District, Beijing.

After over 50 years of development, it has become the nation’s largest comprehensive research institution of microbiological science.

E

In the first 18 years from 1958 to 1976, IMCAS had eight research divisions covering the following disciplines: mycology, virology, physiology and biochemistry, biophysics, genetics, agricultural microbiology, industrial microbiology and geomicrobiology. During that period of time, great efforts were made to survey microbial resources and to study microbial metabolisms and genetic variations. A large number of microbial strains were found and improved for use in fermentation industries, agriculture and geological survey.

Then in 1978, in accordance with the strategic restructuring of CAS, IMCAS underwent institutional reorganization and set up eight divisions, i.e., divisions of fungal classification, bacterial classification, virology, microbial ecology, microbial metabolism, microbial enzymology, microbial genetics and microbial strain preservation. At the same time, new research support systems, including a fermentation pilot plant, a core facility, a radiation safety laboratory and an information center, were set up. In the following two decades, IMCAS made great strides in both basic and applied research, which were represented by a large number of scientific achievements of great significance to economic and social development.

Later, in 1998, the CAS Knowledge Innovation Project was officially launched. Upon approval

by CAS, IMCAS entered the Project on August 15, 2001, marking the beginning of a new phase in its history. With microbial resources, molecular microbiology and microbial biotechnology as three main areas of research, the Institute reshuffled its research divisions to establish a research center for microbial resources, a research center for molecular microbiology and a research center for microbial

98 Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards

biotechnology. In 2004, IMCAS recognized microbial resources, industrial microbiology and pathogenic microbiology as its three areas of research, and set up nine research centers in the three areas. These include research centers for microbial resources, extremophiles, energy and industrial biotechnology, microbial metabolic engineering, environmental biotechnology, agricultural biotechnology, molecular virology and molecular immunology, and a joint research center for microbial genomics.

Since 2008, the Institute has endeavored to reorganize research and development activities into an innovative value chain with a biological resource center, a scientific research system and a technology transfer and transformation center as three interconnected units, and to carry out basic, strategic and prospective research in the areas of microbial resources, microbial biotechnology and pathogenic microbiology and immunology to meet national needs in industrial upgrading, agricultural development, human health, environmental protection, etc. At present, the scientific research system of IMCAS is comprised of five laboratories: State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics (jointly set up by IMCAS and the Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, CAS), State Key Laboratory of Mycology, CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, and CAS Key Laboratory of Microbial Physiological and Metabolic Engineering.

Currently IMCAS owns the largest fungal herbarium in Asia with nearly 500,000 specimens and the largest microbiological culture collection in China with more than 41,000 strains. In addition, it possesses a microbiological information center, a core facility, a Biosafety Level-3 laboratory and other supporting platforms. It also has a specialized library with more than 50,000 books/journals and an electronic library with more than 20,000 e-books and 9,000 e-journals in Chinese or English. Three national academic societies, i.e., Chinese Society of Microbiology (CSM), Chinese Mycology Society and Chinese Society of Biotechnology (CSBT), are urrently affiliated to IMCAS. IMCAS publish the following academic journals in conjunction with these societies: Acta Microbiologica Sinica, Microbiology China, Mycosystem and Chinese Journal of Biological Engineering (in Chinese and English).

Best Pathogens & Immunology Research Institute - Beijing

The Institute also attaches great importance to cooperation with international scientific community and industries. Since 2008, IMCAS implemented 50 international cooperative projects and 40 talent recruitment and international exchange projects. In 2010, IMCAS was elected to be the host institute of the World Data Center for Microorganisms. In 2012, IMCAS cooperated with Royal Holloway,University of London and launched Fungal Names, an international fungal names registration website and a Chinese fungal species database. In March 2013, the CAS-TWAS Biotechnology Center of Excellence was established at IMCAS. Each year it organizes several international meetings in microbiology to further promote communication and exchanges in the international community. IMCAS employs more than 490 staff members, of whom 416 are researchers including six CAS academicians.

There are 513 graduate students at IMCAS. Overall, across over five decades of unflagging efforts, IMCAS has developed into a comprehensive microbiological research institution with rich heritage, great strength and international reputation, and moving forward maintaining this and continuing to offer the highest possible standards of research and innovation will remain its ongoing focus.

Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards 99

GE170031

Company: Cannon Technologies Ltd Contact: Matt Goulding Email: matthew.goulding@ cannontech.co.uk Address: Queensway, Stem Lane, New Milton, Hampshire, BH25 5NU, UK Phone: 01425 638148

Best for Turn Key Data Centre Solutions Cannon Technologies is a world renowned, UK owned and managed company which operates in Hampshire, the midlands and Scotland, serving UK and global markets. We profile the firm to find out more about the services it offers and examine the secrets behind its phenomenal success. ow in its fortieth year, Cannon designs and manufactures cutting edge Data Centres and Data Com infrastructure, including associated mechanical and electrical equipment and remote control systems for the management of critical infrastructures and security. Additionally, the firm provides high performance solutions and Turnkey facilities to virtually every market sector, including Enterprise Data Centres for Banking and Finance, the global Blue Chip sector, Internet Service Providers, Health, Police, security, utilities and defence. In fact, any mission critical requirement where reliability and efficiency is paramount.

N

Testimony to the level of excellence the firm offers, Cannon’s ground breaking Modular Data Centres are multi awarded and provide a range of best of breed Core Data Centres through to increasingly important EDGE computing- Mini Data Centres, supporting the latest IT trends which are chasing increased network speed. These advanced solutions achieve immense energy saving benefits and are extremely eco-friendly, which is to great advantage to clients as they dramatically reduce operating expenditure and cut capital cost.

100 Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards

Alongside this, the “Cannon Globe Trotter -SOFT RIDE”, is a patented transportable facility with inbuilt shock protection enabling mission live IT to be rapidly transported to any global area of urgent need ,enabling true drop-plug-play advantages.

This solution is widely in use with UK/Nato Forces and is supported by a significant number of additional Cannon Modular Data Centres of varying capacities.

The firm’s mission is to maximise the financial performance ratios of customers and to improve operational efficiency across all metrics by delivering true excellence with cutting edge solutions.

Within the wider data centre market, this sector has always been seen as providing opportunity for good financial returns. The requirement for the, all up front financial investment model, has imposed some impediment to enthusiasm. Economists have identified Cannon solutions as providing a leap in investment efficiency, truly transformational and positively disruptive to more old fashioned technologies which require all up front, “Big Bang” investment with severe downside dangers if capacity remains unfulfilled.

Best for Turn Key Data Centre Solutions

Looking ahead, global experts forecast extreme growth in the Modular IT / Data Centre sector because of transformational investor benefits that this new technology contributes to the investor sector.

Ultimately, Cannon Technologies is a recognised world leader in this technology and is forging a strong international growth path.

Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards 101

GE170032

Company: Barnbrook Systems Limited Contact: Andrew Barnett Address: andrewbarnett@ barnbrook.co.uk Address: 25 Fareham Park Rd, Fareham, Hampshire, PO15 6LD, UK Phone: 01329 847722

Best for Transport Component Manufacturing Barnbook Systems are a leading designer, developer and manufacturer of a wide variety of electrical, electronic and computer devices and systems.

We invited Andrew Barnett to tell us more about the firm. arnbrook was founded in 1979 driven by a belief that encouraging and connecting the right people will deliver more than just products. The company supplies aerospace, defence, maritime, railway and commercial industries globally. It also is a prime contractor and sub-contractor to the UK MOD, overseas governments and major companies.

The firm’s products include relays, flight actuators, circuit breakers, pressure transducers, fire suppression actuators, power controllers, engine control units and solenoids. Setting out its own values, its mottos are ‘setting higher standards’ and ‘supplying worldwide – safety is critical.’ Andrew outlines the firm’s overall mission and what steps it takes in order to achieve this.

“There are many parts of our industry which have gone through massive change, but our lean size and approach has helped us weather many business storms. Our challenges now are different; political, geographical and customer demands are changing rapidly and not always in the same direction. Delivering the right products, the right quality and the right price will continue to help, but we must remain agile enough to handle whatever uncertainty delivers.”

“With the creative minds drawing on their experience, the future looks very bright indeed for the company.”

“We have two product development streams, which is important in our very regulated and compliant market space.

One stream will go through the normal requirement specification, design, development through to compliant end product.

This adds time to the whole product development cycle. Our other stream is about Minimum Viable Product, this route is much quicker to market but does need the full engagement of the customer.”

B

“Part of our business is ‘Legacy support’, which whilst commercial viable, can often dampen or restricts creativity or innovation. Our staff age is from 18 to 85 years, so creativity and innovation is not only our route to future markets but also a key motivator of all our staff.”

Experience is something which sets the company apart from its fellow competitors, marking them out as the best possible option for current and potential clients. Andrew is keen to point out how valuable this is for the firm, along with explaining how the diverse working environment creates the right working atmosphere.

“We have a very unusual, diverse working environment which we feel creates the right atmosphere to enthuse people. A large proportion of our staff have been with us for over 30 years.”

The industry is constantly changing, as Andrew explains, whilst noting that the size of the company has helped it adapt to these new challenges without taking their focus off the firm’s main mission.

102 Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards

In order to adapt to the new challenges mentioned and stay ahead of emerging new developments, Andrew discusses the two product development streams, integral in a regulated market. A good customer relationship is vital in order for the company to meet its client’s requirements.

Ensuring that the company is always changing for the better and keeping up with changes in the industry, the staff have to be on alert and maintain good customer and client relationships. In order for this to happen, the staff must be well equipped to provide the best possible service, Andrew tells us.

“Fundamentally, I am keen to ensure that we engage with education both internally and more importantly externally. As such, I have embarked on a program of connecting with secondary schools, colleges and universities to ensure that the young engineer or business person of the future has real world exposure to business. We drive this though our work experience, youth training and graduate training programmes. Overall, as a company we are not about short-term thinking.”

Looking ahead, the company has projects to look forward to, building on the stable base of their ongoing success. Barnbrook Systems Limited stands out from other competitors in the industry due to their exceptional customer service and

Best for Transport Component Manufacturing

the ability to anticipate potential developments, negotiating their way through these challenges thanks to a wealth of experience. With the creative minds drawing on their experience, the future looks very bright indeed for the company. The firm is not only about evolving their products but also helping the customers and guaranteeing the best results possible, as Andrew observes.

“Ultimately, our Internet of Things and predictive technologies are proving of great interest. Building these capabilities into our existing products and future ones will not only help our customers but also be key to our product evolution cycle. We have had great success in deploying this technology into the rail industry as well as an entry into aviation.”

Regarding the global corporate landscape, and the ever changing developments within the industry, Andrew states that the company is already adapting, and this is potentially where the future lies for the company.

“As we explore the wider market and the opportunities presented by our IOT technology, we are getting directly involved in the whole ‘Big Data’ arena, which is unusual for an SME, but I see a genuine future for this in our core product development and product reliability. We will truly be connected to the end customer for all the right reasons. Creative thinking is a great enabler and can break down many of the traditional barriers to entry that smaller organisations face.”

Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards 103

GE170033

Best for Health & Safety - Scotland Ferguson Legal is a law firm based in Scotland, doing things differently.

We invited Carole Ferguson to tell us more about the firm and what makes it so successful. erguson Legal is a commercial law practice specialising in health and safety, regulatory and compliance, alongside doing a lot of work in the oil and gas industry, construction and transport. The practice recently launched “Outsource” which allows companies the luxury of an in-house lawyer without the commitment. Many of the firm’s clients need a part-time legal advisor or someone to boost its in-house team when there is a period of activity and so the firm fulfils that market need.

F

Company: Ferguson Legal Contact: Carole Ferguson Email: contact@ fergusonlegal.co.uk Phone: 01224 900025 Web: fergusonlegal.co.uk getlawsavvy.com

Carole sets about ensuring the team are happy, as she believes it will make them work harder and smarter. Discussing the firm’s overall mission of providing clients with the best service possible, Carole outlines what steps the firm plans to take in order to reach their goals.

“The culture within the company is fun.

We all work really hard but we love the law and get such a buzz out of helping our clients when the you-know-what hits the fan. Our culture is very much to become part of our clients’ team, so we invest emotionally in our work too which I think the clients really appreciate.”

“Working hard for our clients, our mission is to provide real world legal advice and make working together a pleasure. Law can be very dry and while the team and I relish the detail, we are aware our clients simply want someone to provide solid advice which allows them to make risk-controlled, commercial decisions. As a firm, we hold the worklife balance in very high regard. I believe if the staff are happy then they will work harder and smarter, it is simple really. I am a working mum and many of my staff have commitments outside of work, so we respect this. In return my staff give 100% - and we have a laugh too!”

The law industry is very competitive, meaning it is important to stand out from competitors in order to attract the best clients. The culture of the practice is something Carole identifies as a way of marking themselves out of the others. The personal and

104 Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards

genuine approach of the staff is evident, as Carole highlights the care the team put in when dealing with clients.

“People genuinely enjoy working with us, so I would like to say it is our culture. We have a sense of humour but we’re also highly trained and awardwinning lawyers. It is a cliché to say ‘we go the extra mile for our customers’ but I recently got a call about a health and safety incident in the south of Scotland while at a lunch event in Aberdeenshire.

I dropped everything to drive down. The team could have handled it, but I could tell it was going to be a complex case and I wanted to get right on top of it. The client really appreciated how quickly I responded and how organised I was! Also, I wouldn’t manage to do it without the support of my fabulous team who take the strain off me and help with other matters allowing me to focus on providing best help when required.”

Brexit is a big issue for law firms and the wider industry in Scotland currently. Carole lists the specific issues affecting the firm and how the team are going about to ensure that clients are kept up to date with changing regulations.

“The biggest issue we are facing in Scotland right now is Brexit. We have been writing a blog series explaining the likely impact on each area of the law as we know it is the main thing on our clients’ minds.

The sentencing guidelines for health and safety law violations have also recently been updated, so the penalties are much higher. We have been breaking that down for clients too, just to underline the importance of compliance and preventative action.”

Carole tells us what techniques the firm employs to keep up with new developments within the industry and keep staff alert. Networking and employing specialist staff, the company is able to keep tabs on future developments enables the practice to concentrate on the next big thing. The firm invests in the client and concentrates hard on its customer based relationships.

“The team is very switched on. We all read a lot and keep our social media streams updated with information about changes in the law or cases that set a precedent. We have a dedicated PR and Social Media Manager too who makes sure our communications strategy is on point and writes our monthly newsletter. She’s a trained journalist so she’s particularly good at keeping us relevant – our June newsletter was a Grenfell Tower special,

Best for Health & Safety - Scotland

for example, explaining the legal ramifications. We also do a lot of networking as a company. I think staying in regular contact with key people in each industry is the best way to stay ahead of emerging developments.

“The culture within the company is fun. We all work really hard but we love the law and get such a buzz out of helping our clients when the you-know-what hits the fan. Our culture is very much to become part of our clients’ team, so we invest emotionally in our work too which I think the clients really appreciate.”

Moving forward Carole is optimistic about the future for the Ferguson Legal. She is obviously excited about expanding the team, building on the recent success the practice has achieved.

“Overall, the future is looking really bright for Ferguson Legal. I am proud of the work we have done and the difference we have made to our clients so far so I just want to build on that. We are looking at expanding the team in the near future, which is exciting.”

Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards 105

GE170039

Contact: Tracey Jaeckisch Email: sales@ thediamondbouquet.com Company: The Diamond Bouquet Address: 2 Tower View Court, Auchtermuchty, Fife, KY147AN, UK Phone: 07888734159 Web: www.thediamondbouquet.com

Best for Wedding Floristry The Diamond Bouquet continue to be the leader in providing floral products and services in the Fife area. We invited Tracey Jaeckisch to tell us more about the firm and the services it offers to its clients. he Diamond Bouquet are a prestige wedding and corporate florist business offering a unique and personal experience to its discerning clients. The firm have been suppliers to first class corporate clients and supply to some of Scotland’s most prestigious hotels and castles. Tracey outlines the firms overall mission and what steps the company plans to take in order to achieve this, whilst also discussing how the business integrates innovation into every aspect of its work. Highlighting the teamwork between staff at the firm, there is a great deal of trust at the company, which can only be good for business and the clients.

T

“Looking ahead, our future begins with our wedding clients & they build our business from the unique and personal service we provide. We are looking to build on this to continue to be award winners in our field.”

“At the Diamond Bouquet, we maintain a tradition of exceeding customer’s expectations at a reasonable price. We will continue to grow a profitable business by building repeat customers and expanding our market area. Also, team work, trust and solidarity and working to the same guiding principles.”

Placing a keen emphasis on customer service, this may be seen as a key differentiator between the company and its competitors. The high quality standard provided by the company marks it out as the best possible option for existing and prospective clients. Staff are very customer focused, always willing to go the extra mile for the client and are always market driven, noticing the biggest trend currently on top of the market.

Within the region currently, the firm is operating in the very competitive Florist Industry, this means there are specific challenges to overcome and there may be outside influences affecting the industry.

Tracey notes that supermarkets have hindered local florists but there are customers who have stayed loyal and wish to support their local florists.

“Operating in the very competitive Florist Industry, the Diamond Bouquet faces many challenges.

Large chain supermarkets have destroyed our

106 Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards

occasion market and only those customers who wish to support their local florists and who appreciate our skill and presentation remain loyal to us. We have dedicated our efforts into providing the best possible professional service to our clients, who are looking for that something different and special.”

Working hard to stay ahead of emerging developments within the fast paced market, the company must employ techniques to deal with the upcoming changes. Tracey points out that the clients are the important aspect of the business and the unique and personal service that the company provides is integral to stay on top of the industry. The personal service offered by staff at the company can be linked to the internal culture in the firm. Ensuring all staff are able to provide the best possible service to clients is a hard task but Tracey explains that the employees are passionate about what they do, whilst also being responsible, working hard to meet the client’s requirements and aiming to exceed them.

“Looking ahead, our future begins with our wedding clients & they build our business from the unique and personal service we provide. We are looking to build on this to continue to be award winners in our field.

“Ensuring they are able to give excellent customer service, our staff remain honest and responsible in dealing with our customers, suppliers and coworkers. Our guiding principles are, do what is right, give your best, nothing less and customers are at the centre of what we do.”

Having said loyal and new customers are integral to the company’s future, Tracey cannot stress enough how hard the staff work to supply the best quality products, focusing on the client’s needs and individual characteristics. With regards to the global corporate landscape, Tracey details what developments she foresees in the industry and how the business will adapt around these.

“Staff constantly strive to supply the best quality products sourced from our international partners & providing service excellence, focussing on our client’s needs and individual personalities and we always aim go the extra mile for all our clients.

“All of the team are always looking to the current global floral trends and we will continue to train all our staff up on site under close supervision of myself

Best for Wedding Floristry

to work from the very start to our high standards & encourage them to bring out their own creative style keeping to the current global floral trends. This latest award encourages us to work even harder in the future in order to maintain our position as one of Scotland’s premier florists.�

Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards 107

GE170035

Company: Tomorrow’s Voices - Bermuda Autism Early Intervention Centre Registered Charity #816 Contact: Thea Furbert Email: info@ tomorrowsvoices.bm Address: Bay View, #4 Happy Valley Road, Pembroke HM19, Bermuda Phone: 00441 297 4342 Web: www.tomorrowsvoices.bm

Best Autism Treatment & Prevention Centre Tomorrow’s Voices is an intervention centre for individuals with autism and other related conditions and learning differences. We invited Thea Furbert, co-founder and Chair, to tell us a bit more about the centre and the services it offers.

omorrow’s Voices opened its doors in 2007 in order to fulfil the need in Bermuda for specialized and individualized programming based on empirically validated research. As such, the centre’s service provision model focuses on delivering high-quality, evidence-based services based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with a heavy emphasis on B.F. Skinner’s Analysis of Verbal Behavior. The centre is now approaching its 10th anniversary, and it is proud of the progress it has made in order to service the continual and growing need for its services.

The centre possesses a wide range of clients with regards to age, diagnoses and functioning level.

Its services include one-to-one in-house therapy, consulting services, social skills groups and summer programs for clients as they transition from infancy through to adulthood. Thea explains to us the centre’s overall mission and what steps staff plan to take in order to reach the aims set out by the centre.

T

“The future is very bright as we continue to look at growing and expending our services to reach more children needing ABA and research based support.”

“At the centre, our mission is to bring positive and meaningful change to the lives of children, adolescents and their families by providing researchbased and best educational practices. This is a big job, as anyone in the field knows, but we strive daily to achieve this by creating and modifying individualized programs based on ongoing assessment and data collection. We aim to work in partnership with the families and other allied health professionals in order to develop programs that are meaningful and significant to the individual. We focus on teaching them the adaptive, language, play, social, academics and self-help skills they need in order to function within their home, school and community environments as successfully as they can.”

Being based in Bermuda, Tomorrow’s Voices is the only intervention centre on the island which focuses on ABA service provision for individuals with autism. Thea outlines this to us and explains what she thinks marks the centre out as the best possible option for clients.

“One thing that certainly makes us different is that we are the first, and currently only, intervention centre on the island focusing on ABA service provision for individuals with autism and other related diagnoses. Often our clients receive diagnoses specifying the need for a certain number of hours of ABA, only to find that this is very limited here in Bermuda. As such, we are frequently sought out by these families who are looking to receive some of the recommended therapy their children require.

We are currently the only Centre on the island that is overseen by board certified behavior analysts (BCBAs), ensuring that our services are carried out to the high ethical standards and stringent focus on evidence-based practices of our field.”

Discussing what techniques staff at the centre use in order to keep up with continuing research, Thea notes that staff are always being provided with training and learning opportunities. Being able to visit other ABA service providers, particularly abroad, benefits staff in being able to keep on top of current research within the area.

“Working within the field of ABA requires its members to stay abreast with current research.

At Tomorrow’s Voices we value the importance of providing continual and ongoing training and learning opportunities for our staff. This year we were able to send multiple staff members overseas

108 Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards

Best Autism Treatment & Prevention Centre

to conferences and conventions in the field, and to visit other ABA service providers to stay abreast with the most current research and best-practices.”

Regarding the global corporate landscape, Thea discusses what developments she foresees and how the centre and its employees will adapt around these advances, pointing out the continuous investment in staff training. Looking forward, Thea also tells us what the future holds for the centre and what the future plans are for Tomorrow’s Voices Intervention Centre.

“As the statistics for those touched by autism continues to grow internationally we will remain invested in supporting these children and their families. We will continue to invest in the training of our staff locally and internationally so that they are kept in tune with new research and techniques available by our international counterparts.

“The future is very bright as we continue to look at growing and expending our services to reach more children needing ABA and research based support. As we continue to serve this population we look at areas of growth in adult services, additional consulting in schools and creating other initiatives that will serve the community.”

Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards 109

GE170003

Company: riskHive Software Solutions Ltd Contact: Sandu Hellings Email: sandu.hellings@ riskhive.com Address: Dilkush, Farlers End, Nailsea, Bristol, North Somerset, BS48 4PG, UK Phone: 01275 54 58 74 Web: www.riskhive.com

Most Outstanding Enterprise Risk Management Solutions Provider riskHive Software Solutions are a risk management solutions provider based in North Somerset. Sandu Hellings tells us more about the company and the services they offer. iskHive Software Solutions are at the forefront of risk technology and process, providing enterprise risk management, portfolio risk analytics and desktop analytical risk solutions and services. Sandu explains how it feels to have received the award and outlines the reasons he believes are behind the firm’s success.

r

“Essentially, we were absolutely delighted to receive the Most Outstanding Enterprise Risk Management Solutions Provider award. Our success is almost certainly due to our ability to work as well as we do as a team and to utilise our expertise in a way that delivers the products and service our clients need. Our clients come from both the private sector and the public sectors in the UK and as far afield as New Zealand and the UAE.”

“The future is very bright as we continue to look at growing and expending our services to reach more children needing ABA and research based support.”

Being an ambitious and innovative company, Sandu outlines the firms aims and missions of the company to us, noting how the company ensures clients from the outset have the confidence to understand exactly what the clients’ needs are.

“The overall aim as a company is not only to provide industry leading risk management solutions to business and government. We also aim to ensure that our clients from the outset have the confidence that we understand exactly what their needs are and that we can deliver for them. Naturally, innovation comes hand in hand with this. If we do not have the exact solution a client requires, we create it.”

Sandu believes that the company size sets the firm apart from key competitors. As a small team, staff believe that they are best placed to deliver the best product as they are the team who built it.

110 Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards

“Standing out in the industry, we are different from our key competitors in that we are a small team. Those who are charged with delivering the solutions and managing them for our clients and the designers of the solutions in the first instance are one and the same. At riskHive we are convinced that nobody can better deliver a product better than the very team who built it and that is precisely what we do.”

Providing a brief overview of the industry in the UK, Sandu discusses the specific challenges and outside influences which may affect the company.

Highlighting Brexit as a clear challenge, riskHive are actually excited about the opportunities that may arise, contrary to popular opinion within the industry.

“This industry is one that is growing and growing despite the doom and gloom in the media. One clear challenge that the industry is facing is Brexit. Whilst leaving the European Union does indeed pose some risks, we are excited about the opportunities that Brexit may afford. We look forward to working with existing clients and markets in the future and we are very optimistic about the future and the UK’s future trading relationships with the world.”

Working within such a fast paced market, Sandu mentions what techniques the firm employs in order to stay ahead of any emerging developments which may arise. Allowing a personal touch, the company is in constant touch with its clients, ensuring that everyone, including board members is informed of important trends within their business.

“Benefitting from a personal touch, we are in constant touch with our customers – we work closely with their risk visionaries and we explore how the demands of the market are developing alongside the requirements of statutory reporting to keep our Users, their Consumers (all Board Level Members) and their Customers informed, up to date and abreast of trends developing in their business.”

Providing excellent personal customer service is important to the firm in order to keep ahead of emerging developments, the internal culture within

Most Outstanding Enterprise Risk Management Solutions Provider

the company is vital to ensuring that all staff are armed with necessary information to deliver the best possible service to the clients, something Sandu emphasises to us.

“Company culture is really important to us, thriving employees mean a thriving company and this is something we understand all too well at riskHive.

We are a family business and as such we understand that adaptability is an essential part to being able to enjoy your work. We want those who work for us to enjoy what they do and importantly to learn and develop as our company moves forward on its journey. We are convinced that our working model has had a direct influence on the quality of our products, products we are very proud of.”

Looking forward, Sandu does not hesitate to tell us about future projects the firm has lined up, highlighting the pace at which data changes and how quickly information can change hands.

“Amongst all the developments within the company, our newest product is our Sentinel KRI. In today’s world of 24-hour news and social media, the pace at which data changes and information travels increases daily. Sentinel tracks all the things that can affect any business, in real-time. Sentinel keeps its eyes on our client’s world, so they do not miss a thing.”

Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards 111

GE170036

Company: ASolute Sdn Bhd Contact: Dominic Martin Email: dominic@asolute.com Address: 4805-02-02 CBD Perdana 2, Jalan Perdana, Cyber 12, Cyberjaya, Selangor, 63000 Cyberjaya, Malaysia Phone: 00603 8322 5555 Web: www.asolute.com

Best for Logistics Software Development Asolute Sdn Bhd provide business-technology solutions to the Logistics and Supply chain industry through creativity and innovation. We invited Dominic Martin to tell us more about the firm and its recent success.

solute Sdn Bhd provides systems integration and consulting services to help its customers define strategies and streamline processes. The firm also provides them with solutions which addresses the client’s industry needs. The company’s clients consist of logistics players in the areas of warehousing and distribution, container transportation, conventional trucking, Depot/Yard and freight and forwarding. Some of its customers are leaders in their respective fields. The firm also has clients which are integrated logistics providers and with the help of Asolute’s solution, clients are able to provide their customers with end to end solution. Dominic tells us how it feels to receive the award, as well as outlining the firms overall mission and what steps the company plans to take in order to reach their goals.

“As a company, we provide equipped and proven to use Integrated Logistics Solution. There is no doubt that there are a number of competitor’s solutions out there but they are normally solo solutions in their own industry. We have resources and experience in the respective logistics industry itself; this helps us to not only implement but also to help provide solutions for clients. We believe if we are the best in at least one way, we are the best option for the people who value variety.”

“Culture matters in our company.

We believe our staff are a powerful asset and they are the keystone to company growth.”

“In this multi-cultural region, each country has its own culture and languages. Thus, to cope with inherent trade-offs, a wide variety of different technologies and approaches are being explored and practiced. When it comes to doing business here, we also practice localized requirements and processors which are not replicated in other countries in the region. This means we have to provide solutions specific to the country that we deploy the solutions in. Our business is always gearing up to tap into opportunities and investment from logistics companies across the world and since we already have a foot hold in this region, we are well ahead in terms of the implementation and deployment of our solutions.”

A

“At Asolute, we were stunned and incredibly excited to hear that we have been selected to receive this prestigious award. Of course, we enjoyed our moment of glory. This award certainly adds value to the company. One of the main reasons for our success is the experience and the innovativeness of our key team members in identifying the needs of our customers and the industry.”

“The company’s overall mission is to enhance our client’s experience by helping their customers. We believe in growing together with our customers and helping them achieve their overall business goals. This is why we always raise our staff’s personal standard by holding regular in-house training and team building exercises to maintain the standard we have set.”

Being a logistics development company, there are other competitors within the industry with their own solutions, however Dominic believes that the firm are able to mark themselves out amongst the competition. Being able to not only implement a solution for clients but also being able to provide solutions for them is something that Dominic believes helps them to stand out within the industry.

112 Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards

Dominic tells us about Malaysia, the region that the company is based in, highlighting the different cultures and languages within the country. The firm is constantly having to adapt and work around installing the solutions in the country that they will be deployed in, as not all solutions are replicated in other countries.

One of its main goals, the company works hard to ensure the team and its staff can provide the best possible service to its clients. Integral to this is a good working environment. Dominic tells us about the internal culture within the firm, how the company engages with staff as they are a powerful asset and the keystone to company growth. Regarding recruitment, Asolute examine potential employees’ aspirations and attitude, rather than experience.

“Culture matters in our company. We believe our staff are a powerful asset and they are the keystone to company growth. We allow our staff to be all they can be. When there are issues and obstacles, we encourage forums and discussion. We also like to have team building activities to encourage them to think outside the box. When we recruit, applicant’s aspirations and attitude is what we look at first rather than qualifications and experience.”

Best for Logistics Software Development

Looking ahead, Dominic discusses the future of the firm, citing a three-year plan which has already borne success and how the team are looking to expand into other regions soon. “Regarding our future, we are now in our final year of a three-year plan and we are happy to say that we are on track to achieve our goals. Based on our road map we are also planning to enter other regions at the end of next year.�

Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards 113

GE170038

Company: Company Fusion Limited Contact: Mike Edwards Email: mike@ companyfusion.com Address: Third Floor, Tring House, 77-81 High Street, Tring, Hertfordshire, HP23 4AB, UK Phone: 0207 993 3368 Web: www.companyfusion.com

Best for International Finance Recruitment Company Fusion Limited specialises in providing flexible solutions through permanent and contract assignments, managed services and a variety of integrated, innovative services. We invited Mike Edwards to tell us more about the success of the company and its extensive success. ompany Fusion Limited work closely with clients to help develop coherent solutions and to provide them with outsourced skills that will allow them to concentrate on their core business. Many organisations are finding traditional methods of attracting applicants for their vacancies increasingly ineffective. Simply posting an ad or engaging with an agency that relies on a limited number of platforms and feeding impersonal portals may have worked in the past; however, this approach is unlikely to result in the best possible hire. In order to form a successful partnership with clients and sustain the firm’s existing portfolio, the company understand that it requires an intensive and proactive approach on multiple platforms. Mike tells us how it feels to have won this award, highlighting the hard work staff put in to working with clients as a key factor in the firm’s success.

C

“Staff are dedicated to continuously developing our networks, whilst ensuring we have access to a talent pool over and above our clients and competitors.

“Here at Company Fusion Limited, we truly work in partnership with our clients ensuring they make the right hire first time round. As worldwide headhunters and search and selection recruiters, we are very proud that our hard work is being recognised.

Our clients and candidates are wonderful to work with and the success behind this award is testament to pulling out all the stops in making sure we work with the best within the Accountancy & Finance industry, clients and candidates alike.”

Providing us with a brief overview of the company’s services, Mike is keen to point out the toplevel access to recruitment boards that the firm possesses, as well as boasting the best recruitment consultants in the country, which, when combined, provides one of the best recruitment companies.

“Staff are dedicated to continuously developing our networks, whilst ensuring we have access to a talent pool over and above our clients and competitors.

We are in the top 1% of agencies who have access

114 Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards

to the LinkedIn Recruiter Professional services alongside subscriptions to the major specialist job boards and intelligent use of social media platforms to engage with professionals in all areas.

“Essentially, our recruitment consultants are amongst the best in the country and they join us to be part of a high energy can-do team, who really do put everything into making things happen. No other agency will put in the effort that we do to get things right first time. Head-Hunting without the upfront fee. We are so confident in our abilities that our search and selection service is completely free of charge until someone we source for you commences full-time employment, so there really is nothing to lose therefore a win/win scenario.”

Mike details the firm’s overall mission, noting how innovative staff are, being forward thinking communicators and always looking to stay ahead of the next development in the industry.

“Company Fusion Limited’s mission is not only to be the client’s and candidate’s recruiter of choice but to always give the client candidates they need, deserve and want, who will hit the ground running, increasing their market share and revenues. Our Account Managers are all proactive, forward thinking communicators who integrate and synergise across all areas of Company Fusion, the client’s business and the industry as a whole to develop creative solutions to all problems.”

With the recruitment industry growing at such a rapid rate, firms must differentiate themselves from other recruitment companies. Mike states that staff and the company go further than the extra mile for clients, who have most likely exhausted all their options in trying to hire the right person.

“Employees at Company Fusion Limited go further than the extra mile than our competitors to ensure with get the role filled. We are normally called in when all other options and recruiters have failed and once we are called in and show what we can do we are often called first thereafter.”

Regarding the internal working environment, Mike comments on the atmosphere within the company.

Staff are always looking to build relationships with the client and the candidate, ensuring everyone is pulling in the same direction. This will help Company Fusion Limited in the future, as it continues to grow at a rapid rate and explore new industries.

Best for International Finance Recruitment

“Internally, our culture is based around value added services and our main objective is to build a relationship with both the client and candidate to ensure we are all working to the same end goal - we enjoy nothing more than finding candidates where all others fail.

“Ultimately, Company Fusion Limited’s future is very simple. Due to the lack of competence or recruiters in certain market sectors we are growing at a phenomenal rate by continually exploring and entering these industries/ market sectors providing services which are unrivalled.”

Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards 115

GE170037

Company: Revetas Capital Advisors LLP Contact: Eric Assimakopoulos Email: dt@revetas.com Address: 26-28 Mount Row W1K 3SQ London Phone: + 44 203 931 42 97

Best for Real Estate Investments - CEE Revetas Capital Advisors LLP (Revetas) is a specialized real estate investment manager which entered the Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) market in 2003, initially under the name Bifrost Investment Group (Bifrost). We profiled the firm to find out more about them.

evetas manages and invests capital in real estate opportunities throughout CEE on behalf of a global range of private and institutional investors. The company is focused exclusively on CEE with its offices based in London, Bratislava, Vienna, Krakow and Bucharest. The firm and its precursor, Bifrost have been active in the CEE region for over ten years, possessing widespread knowledge of the real estate market and banking practices in the area. Since being founded the teams at Revetas and Bifrost have sourced, acquired, managed, refinanced and disposed of over €400m of real estate in 10 transactions comprising over 240,000 m2. This direct and disciplined management approach has secured strong returns throughout the economic cycles.

R

“The company’s success is built on its performance-oriented culture, combined with integrity and responsibility, while its relationships with clients, investors, partner and employees are built on mutual trust and goodwill.”

Team members at Revetas have an excellent track record, gained by utilizing a hands on approach, resulting in multiple successful investments in the CEE area. With extensive experience of multiple economic and real estate cycles across geographies, transaction and asset types, the firm is able to manage and mitigate risks with the goal of maximizing returns.

Maintaining the highest standards of integrity is essential to Revetas upholding its fine reputation within the financial industry. Its principles of alignment, transparency and visibility is the foundation of relationships with investors, clients, partners and employees. The company’s success is built on its performance-oriented culture, combined with integrity and responsibility, while its relationships with clients, investors, partner and employees are built on mutual trust and goodwill.

116 Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards

The company promotes good governance, ensuring fairness, honesty, integrity and accountability. Revetas aims to ensure that all of its partners, advisors and business associates adhere to strict procedures governing their own ethical behaviour as well as that of their own team members. Staff engage with locally based advisors wherever possible and work with its own team to give improved access to local market intelligence, enabling it to identify issues and opportunities as soon as they arise.

Visibility is an integral part of the business culture at Revetas. The team recognise that the firm’s investors and partners share the same view about having visibility with their investments.

Therefore, the business provides a fully transparent structure, delivering institutional quality reporting on a monthly and quarterly basis. Through secure investor pages, the company’s investors will be able review detailed property information. The firm holds quarterly investor meetings to discuss and review the current status of investments, plus, the senior management team is accessible to investors to provide project level information.

Alignment of interests creates the best business practice. This is the belief of the team at Revetas, as it is committed to alignment with its investors, clients and partners, providing clear objectives based on certain timelines, ensuring all parties have the same objective.

Today, the business consists of 18 team members primarily located in London and Vienna. The investment management professionals have an average of 12 years’ real estate, banking and finance in CEE and are supported in the back office by a team of professionals with tax, legal and administrative experience. Led by Eric Assimakopoulos, who possesses over 20 years’ experience in construction, development and real estate investment the regions that Revetas does its business in.

An enjoyable internal culture, management at Revatas has cultivated a team environment based upon the key principle of alignment of interest with investors and partners, providing a fully transparent culture. Members of the Revetas team each have a meaningful financial commitment. This culture of commitment, alignment and transparency will ensure a close and interactive partnership with investors.

Best for Real Estate Investments - CEE

Ultimately, Revetas’ approach is to invest time and resources to manage investments at the operating level as an owner or operator in each market and in each investment in order to ensure rapid achievement of the given investment strategy. With extensive experience of multiple economic and real estate cycles across diversified geographies, transaction and asset types, the firm is able to manage and mitigate risk with the goal of maximizing returns. Revetas is well positioned to take advantage of the opportunities created by the current environment in the CEE region.

Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards 117

Best for Commercial Interior Design - California GE170040

Best for Commercial Interior Design - California Ryan Young Interiors was established in 1991 by Tara Ryan and incorporated in 1995 to provide innovative commercial, residential, and hospitality design. We invited Tara to tell us more about the firm and its recent success.

Company: Ryan Young Interiors Contact: Tara Ryan Email: tryan@ryan-young.com Address: 2200 Cleveland Avenue, National City, California, CA 91950, USA Phone: 001 619 292 7800 Web: ryanyounginteriors.com

ossessing a wealth of experience, Ryan Young’s expertise has been noted by extensive on-going recognition by industry leaders, as well as being awarded numerous national and international awards. The company’s clients span both the US and China and are extremely diversified in style.

Tara outlined to us the firm’s mission and also commented on how delighted the firm was to win the award, noting staff’s ability and willingness to listen to clients as a key factor in their success.

P

“Ryan Young’s overall mission is one of dedication to being the best that we can be. In other words, there is a strong emphasis on continued growth and learning in every position in the company.

Our approach to being innovative is created with a thought process that starts every project with, ‘What have we not done before?’

“The company is extremely honored to win this award, thank you. I think our success is based on really listening to what our clients hope to achieve with the design and our extreme attention to detail during the execution process.”

Elaborating on what makes the firm successful, Tara again emphasises that listening to clients is a key factor in the difference between Ryan Young and its competitors, highlighting that staff prepares well in advance and are able to deliver on their promises.

“A key difference between our company and others is, we are told by our clients, is that we truly listen to what their needs and wants are, we come to meetings with well thought out creative ideas and solutions and we do what we say we are going to do when we say we will do it.”

Providing us with a brief overview of the industry across the country, Tara stresses the importance of staying ahead of the competition due to the immense amount of talent within the market. Despite the experience that the company possesses, staff is always looking to learn and improve.

“In a highly competitive market, there is a tremendous amount of strong talent. The challenge is to stay ahead of our competition, never take anything for granted and turn on a dime when

118 Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards

needed. In other words, even though we have been in business for 26 years and won over 175 awards we refuse to get comfortable.”

Tara tells us about the fast paced market, discussing what techniques Ryan Young employs in order to stay ahead of any emerging developments. Travel is a big part of the firm’s business, providing the inspiration for many of its designs.

“Travel is a big part of our business and it is through that travel that we see different ways to inspire people with our designs. We take our cues from many design arenas and are always looking for inspiration in unique places. Today you can have the world at your fingertips with the internet so our influence is very global and multi-cultural.”

Essential to being able to stay ahead of developments and other firms is the internal culture of the company. Staff must be armed with necessary information so that they are able to provide the best possible service to clients. Tara comments on the diverse culture within the company, citing the culture of open dialogue.

“Within the company, our culture is very diversified in both age and cultural backgrounds. We have a culture of open dialogue; all ideas are welcomed as long as they are shared respectively. As a company, Ryan Young has a commitment to education and continued growth in every aspect of the business.

This is all part of not getting comfortable.”

Regarding the future of Ryan Young Interiors, Tara shares with us that the company is still growing, focusing a particular team on specialising in creating incredible affordable living environments.

Moving ahead, the successful company can look to build on its strong foundations.

“Ryan Young has around 50 employees and is still in a growth pattern. In addition to our high end projects we have a team that specializes in creating incredible affordable living environments.

It is always great to be recognized for your creative talent but it is also very rewarding knowing that you have created spaces for those who have less.”

Best for Venture Capital Financing - Carolina GE170041

Company: Life Sciences Law, PLLC Contact: Sheila Mikhail Email: smikhail@lifescilaw.com Address; 870 Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, NC 27514, USA Phone: 001 919 942 0251 Web: www.lifescilaw.com

Best for Venture Capital Financing - Carolina Life Sciences Law (LSL) is a boutique law firm specializing on the needs of biotech and pharmaceutical companies. Its clients include some of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies and emerging biotech technologies. We invited Sheila Mikhail to tell us more about the firm and its recent achievements.

SL is the only law firm located in the Research Triangle Park area that focuses exclusively on the life sciences sector. The team at LSL regularly counsel clients on how best to take advantage of scientific breakthroughs and business opportunities both in the United States and abroad. Its attorneys have participated in numerous public offerings, venture capital investments, mergers and acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, technology transfer transactions, university spin outs and initial financing transactions. As a company, LSL have structured complex licensing, distribution, development and manufacturing agreements to allow its clients to meet their current and future business needs.

L

“Fundamentally, our mission is to provide cost efficient legal services on a timely basis, with an emphasis on niche expertise focused on drug development.”

Standing out from its competitors, LSL provide value added business advice and facilitate business introductions, identifying funding sources and creating business opportunities. The firm hire attorneys who boast a wealth of experience and arrive from broad business backgrounds, including experience in management consulting and CEO’s and founders of funded companies. Overall, the firm delivers high quality, innovative legal advice in a cost effective manner. Sheila describes to us how it feels to have received this award and what she believes are the reasons behind her and the firm’s success, as well as providing a brief overview of the services the company offers.

“It is an honour to be recognized. The reasons for success are hard work, long hours, good colleagues, risk taking, and lots of coffee. The team at LSL provide legal support to transition technology from the labs into the clinic where they can transform into drugs that can help patients.”

“Fundamentally, our mission is to provide cost efficient legal services on a timely basis, with an emphasis on niche expertise focused on drug development. Our focus on the life sciences sector allows us to better understand the needs of clients in this space.”

Providing us with a brief overview of the industry, Sheila informs us that there are several pharmaceutical and biotech companies within the area, noting that this means the company is able to collaborate with others and build on the strong foundations set by academic research.

“Research Triangle Park is home to several pharmaceutical and biotech companies. It is an example of a collaborative community with a strong foundation based on academic research at three leading institutions.”

Within the fast paced market, every company must employ specific techniques in order to stay ahead of any emerging developments. Sheila tells us how the company and its staff are always learning, helped by the fact that employees are given regular opportunities to take on new responsibilities early in their careers.

“Keeping up with any changes in the market, employees undertake extensive reading as well as attend seminars and share ideas with colleagues.

The firm’s culture is team oriented, fast paced, client focused. Staff are given opportunities to take on new responsibilities early in their careers due to a relatively flat reporting structure.”

Looking ahead to the future, Sheila explains that she has decided to retire from the practice of law, with the firm’s attorney taking on her old clients.

LSL will continue to consolidate its already solid reputation within the legal industry, as it continues to adapt to other firms increasing in size.

“Ultimately, I have decided to retire from the practice of law, and the firm’s clients will be distributed to the firm’s attorney. LSL will have to continue to consolidate itself within the legal industry, with firms increasing in size.”

Regarding the firm’s aims and goals, Sheila outlines what steps the firm plans to take their reach its goals, whilst also revealing what marks the company out as the best possible option for clients.

Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards 119

Best for Currency Exchange Software GE170030

Company: Clear View Systems Ltd Contact: Tiran Behrouz Address: 2012 Fullerton Ave, North Vancouver, BC V7P 3E3, Canada Phone: 0845 519 7661

Best for Currency Exchange Software Clear View Systems Ltd develop professional money exchange software for small to medium money exchange businesses. We invited Tiran Behrouz to tell us more about the firm’s flagship product and how this has helped drive the firm to the success it enjoys today. lear View Systems offers a range of products, including its flagship offering CurrencyXchanger, a reliable, robust, and affordable banking-quality software used every day by more than 300 customers in 30 countries. Tiran outlines the defining features of this innovative product and how it supports clients.

C

“At Clear View Systems we a small Canadian software firm and we develop business applications for the Money Exchange industry. Our flagship product is CurrencyXchanger (CXR) which is a point of sale software for retailers of currency. We are a small team spread across four countries working remotely from home offices. We started with one client in 2003 and slowly grew to 350 clients in 30 countries. We have been mentioned in major business forums and news sites such as Yahoo, Forbes, Bloomberg, and Wall Street Journal. Our product won the Product of the Year in the Feb 2017 edition of Softech International Software and Cloud Services Award magazine.”

“Overall, our mission is become the number one solution provider for money exchange businesses worldwide.

We continue to improve our product line by supporting languages and implementing regulatory compliance requirements specific to each country.

One core focus for the firm is client service, and as such Clear View Systems has one of the highest customer satisfaction rating in all competing products, as Tiran is eager to highlight.

“With sixty reviewed customer testimonials on Capterra’s website, we have become a recognized brand name in our industry. Customers have a lot of unique requests and useful feedback that can ultimately enhance the product. We simply listen and implement the needs of our customers by prioritizing the most common requests. When customers see that their wishes are implemented, they become loyal to the product. Ultimately, this approach is a win for everyone.

120 Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards

“Fundamentally, the needs of every one of our customers are unique. We only keep a single source code for all our products. This essentially means that every requirement of every customer is imbedded in the main product code. We selectively filter what each customer can see and use. The same product may look different based on the customer and based on the edition of CXR that has been deployed. As a result, we have a highly configurable product. When we first acquire new customers, one of our expert team members works very closely with them to configure and if necessary customize our solution to fit their needs. We also help with migrating data from legacy systems into CXR ensuring a smoother migration for our customers.”

Looking ahead, Tiran is keen to emphasise his firm’s focus on changing the currency exchange market for the better in his concluding comments.

“Overall, our mission is become the number one solution provider for money exchange businesses worldwide. We continue to improve our product line by supporting languages and implementing regulatory compliance requirements specific to each country. We advertise our product online as well as in local business magazines and newspapers.

We work with the Canadian Trade Commissioners (CTC) office in each region to identify and approach larger prospects.

“With regards to future projects, our goal this year is to release CXR5, which is the next major release of our product. It will be localized in German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Swedish. There are about 100 new features in CXR5 and it will be one of our most powerful upgrades to date. With the help of our Swiss partner, Ergonomics AG, we are developing the CurrencyXchanger EE (Enterprise Edition) which will be targeted for larger customer and banks. CXR-EE will be deployed by the Swiss National Railways with over 250 stations across Switzerland.

“Additionally, we will soon be offering currency rates and sanction list checks for other service providers and banks to directly tap use our servers without having to purchase our CurrencyXchanger product.”

Best Community Service Organization GE170034

Company: Organization of Hope Contact: Patrecia Williams Email: info@ organizationofhope.org Address: P.O. Box 1466, Temple Hills, Maryland, MD 20757, USA Phone: 001 855 966 4467 Web: www.organizationofhope.org

Best Community Service Organization Founded in 2009, The Organization of Hope (OOH) is a service organization dedicated to enriching lives and improving communities throughout the Greater Washington and Baltimore Metropolitan Area.

We profile the firm to find out more.

OH’s strategy is practical as well as dynamic, and as such the organisation believes in a hands-on approach, and offer highly-crafted, evidence-based programs and services to individuals (and animals) in need.

To achieve this, OOH’s child care center is dedicated to achieving a vision for child care and parent training services in the local area that will make a sizable difference in the lives of everyone they support.

Among the organisation services is its doggy world, which aims to provide quality pet foster care and services to dogs of U.S. Service members, military families, and busy working owners throughout the greater Washington / Baltimore metropolitan area.

Doggy world dedicates itself to achieving a vision for pet foster care and services in the greater Washington / Baltimore metropolitan area in which communities are inspired to take an active and shared role in the caring and sheltering of dogs.

Additionally, the organisations’ youth services provide supervised before and after-school care, structured educational development programs to children, infancy to twelve years of age, and parent training courses for new and existing parents.

Collaboratively working with the parents and the child, the youth services works to develop a unique service plan that specifically addresses each child’s need.

O

The organisation also offers child care services, working to provide a warm, caring and attentive learning environment for children and parents in the greater Washington / Baltimore metropolitan area by working collaboratively to meet each child’s and families’ individual needs.

Ultimately, OOH’s goal is to re-build communities by making them stronger and more vibrant, and to instil hope in everyone it serves, and this will remain its ongoing focus moving forward.

Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards 121

Best for French Impact Finance Growth Funds: Alter Equity3P – Alter Equity GE170044

Company: Alter Equity Contact: Leo Epstein Email: leo.epstein@ alterequity.com contact@alterequity.com Address: 4 Ter, Rue du Bouloi, Paris, 75001, France Phone: 01 42 86 96 41 Web: www.alterequity.com

Best for French Impact Finance Growth Funds: Alter Equity3P – Alter Equity Alter Equity3P is a French Impact investment fund that supports a sustainable growth. We profiled the firm to find out more about the firm and the services it provides. stablished in 2013, Alter Equity currently manages €41.5m, raised from institutional investors and entrepreneurs.

The “3P” of its name stands for “People, Planet and Profit”, as the fund promotes activities and behaviours that are deeply respectful of human beings and of the environment, while seeking an attractive return for its Limited Partners.

E

The values of Alter Equity3P are what staff work towards and live by. These include taking responsibility, and looking after the planet, working sustainably to improve human life. The firm also embraces principles of professional excellence and humanism.

Alter Equity3P is an investment fund that supports responsible growth. Its investment philosophy is based on the idea that the pursuit of profitability is perfectly compatible with ethical business practice. It aims to orient this responsible behaviour towards activities and principles of action that are fundamentally respectful of the long-term interest of human beings and nature. The values of Alter Equity3P are what staff work towards and live by.

These include taking responsibility, and looking after the planet, working sustainably to improve human life. The firm also embraces principles of professional excellence and humanism.

The fund targets French companies generating a yearly turnover above €1m with a strong potential for profitable growth. Currently the firm is invested in eight companies, including Sports Etudes Academy,

122 Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards

the leading French private sport-study education provider; OpenAirlines, which develops a set of software solutions improving airline companies’ fuel efficiency, leading to a 5% kerosene saving per flight; NED, a provider of tailored renewable energy solutions; Remade Group, the French smartphone refurbishment leader.

Regarding how the firm is different from its competitors, Alter Equity3P is the only French private equity fund that conditions its investment to a double requirement in terms of responsibility. The Portfolio companies’ activities must have a positive impact on environment and people; portfolio companies must be committed to achieving continuous progress in terms of ESG practices through the implementation of an Extra-Financial Business Plan.

Alter Equity3P governance also stands at the highest professionalism level in the impact investing sector, thanks to a Strategic Committee, formed of successful entrepreneurs who have invested in the fund, advising Alter Equity’s team in its investment decisions alongside an Expert Committee, composed of Sustainable Development and CSR specialists, providing Alter Equity with guidance in these fields; and a Management Team of 4 experienced professionals, Fanny Picard, Marianne Siméoni, Félix Mounier and Léo Epstein.

Fundamentally, under the stewardship of Ms. Picard and her associates, the firm is well placed within the financial industry to build on its reputation and expand its business dealings across the globe.

Holding a strong relationship with its partners, the management at Alter Equity can expect its client base to expand and become more diverse.

Mahima Klinge Europe’s N° 1 Self-Mastery and Leadership Mentor, International Bestselling Author and Award-Winning Speaker Mahima provides a unique approach to accelerate the growth back to productivity and passion, as well as gain insights to your bigger mission and life purpose.

Mahima works closely with her clients to ensure targeted programs and events that focus on creating transformational shifts while having fun.

Did you know that

Whether you feel uninspired, tired or stuck in business…

Or you’re lacking confidence to take risks…

Or you feel you’re not performing at your top capacity…

It’s NOT about your skills, it’s all about your mindset!

What’s more…

You can learn these skills within weeks, maybe even days.

Mahima is always thankful for your interest and looks forward to working with you to create the results you seek!

mahimasworld.com

GE170045

Company: MARI IANIQ Ltd. Contact: Mari Paulina C. Janiq Email: mjc@mariianiq.com Phone: 07951 228666 Web: www.mariianiq.com

Best for Jewelled Furniture Design London 2017 MARI IANIQ is a high-end brand of furniture, lighting and accessories providing bespoke pieces and solutions for luxury interiors. The firm also offers entire interior design projects from brief to keys. We spoke to Mari Janiq – the companies Founder and Creative Director - to discuss the brand’s recent success and what makes it so attractive to clients.

MARI IANIQ’s collections comprise highly covetable and exceptionally elegant pieces of furniture, inspired by elements of Haute Couture and collectable jewellery, which are the must have design trophies for those who pride themselves on their taste for superior, collectable furniture. Each piece adorns its space like a jewel in its own right.

The firm’s unique products suit a certain style, and as such MARI IANIQ values the custom of those clients who are discerning enough to understand and enjoy design at its very best. Mari outlines the overall mission of the firm as well as listing how her and her team plan to reach this mission and achieve their goals.

“Our mission is to create unique and highly individualized bespoke products and spaces for our special clients. As we aim for perfection so all of our products are handmade. However, for example, some of our details are produced using most advanced machines and technologies. We also use most advanced design programs. So, we actually mix tradition with innovation all the time.”

When discussing how MARI IANIQ differentiates itself from its competitors, Mari is quick to point out that the company’s creations and products are unique from both – the design and the quality point of view. As all MARI IANIQ creations are inspired

by Haute Couture and collectable jewellery the products are not easy to manufacture. A great amount of detail and attention is paid to each creation. The products are designed to produce a wow factor for clients, making sure each time that it is special to the customer – made entirely to clients brief in desired materials, which is something not necessarily seen in other firms.

“Standing out from the crowd is important for the brand” she says that is why we make enormous efforts on every step of the process to produce real jewels for interiors. Thanks to this unique approach, our clients receive highly customized, unique pieces that very much show their individual tastes.”

Regarding the internal culture in the firm, Mari makes sure that all staff are well equipped to provide clients with the best possible service. She selects her co-workers very carefully and notes that most of them possess a wealth of experience, which can only be of benefit to the company and its clients. Mari and her team prefer to focus on quality than on quantity.

“Fundamentally, I select co-workers very carefully – our design team consists of quite young but extremely talented and highly skilled people.

Most of them have wide international experience.

Nevertheless, we all, including myself, learn a lot from our craftsmen and manufacturers. We work with the best of the best and use their knowledge and experience every single day. We will be rather focusing on the development of our best products rather than coming up with new designs quickly.

MARI IANIQ is supposed to be a boutique brand and will remain as such.”

Looking forward, Mari is clearly excited about being involved in several new brand launches, as she outlines below. Following on from this, Mari then describes what developments she foresees with regard to the global corporate landscape and how MARI IANIQ will adapt to these advances.

124 Acquisition International - 2017 Excellence Awards

Best for Jewelled Furniture Design London 2017

“Moving forward, I am now personally involved in a launch of two new brands which keeps me pretty busy.

And very excited. Part of MARI IANIQ’s team will be involved as well so there is a lot happening for us in the nearest future. I think it will be great to be a part of a group offering a much wider range of products in different styles and price ranges to our customers.

“Ultimately, MARI IANIQ is designed for very individual taste. To meet the requirements of the global corporate landscape we are now working on several collections offering much lighter and simpler products. One for example in retro and one in modern classic styles, as these are both highly fashionable currently. This will allow us to meet expectations of different types from clients with different aesthetical preferences and different budgets.”

Acquisition International - August 2017 125

Join 108,000 Readers in Over 170 Countries What are you Waiting for? www.acquisition-intl.com/subscribe