Global law firm Freshfields is advising gategroup, a leading global player in airline catering and hospitality, on its proposed acquisition of a majority stake in KLM Catering Services (KCS). Upon completion of the transaction, gategroup will acquire a 75% stake in KCS, with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines retaining a 25% stake. 

The transaction represents a new long-term partnership between gategroup and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines designed to redefine the future of inflight catering. The structure of the transaction ensures a shared commitment to the long-term success of the business while allowing KLM to focus on its core airline operations. To support the partnership’s ambitious goals, gategroup will invest in a flagship catering facility at Amsterdam Schiphol. Completion of the transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals. 

The Freshfields cross-practice team is being led by Partner Alexander Doorman (Amsterdam) with Associates James Blyth (Amsterdam), Sophie Aubrun (Amsterdam) and Max van Moorsel (Amsterdam) on the Corporate/M&A aspects. Commercial contracting advice was provided by Partner Konrad Schott (Frankfurt) and Senior Associates Sebastian Naujoks (Hamburg) and Tilly Berkhout (Amsterdam). Partner Peter Niggemann (Düsseldorf) and Counsel Mathilde Beaumunier (Berlin) advised on the Antitrust aspects. Partner Brechje Nollen (Amsterdam) and Associate Veere Everard (Amsterdam) provided Employment advice.