Mergers & Acquisitions Projects

Jonathan provided specialist evidence as part of CPA:

Groupo Ferrovial SG – BAA plc

As a CPA director, Jonathan Roberts undertook part of the Westminster assignment and related high-level advice.

Ferrovial undertook a successful €15 billion takeover bid for BAA plc in 2006, while maintaining good relations with UK and Scottish politicians.
Citigate Public Affairs was appointed to the multi-disciplinary merger team, and gave strategic advice and communications support. This included contact forming with members of the Westminster Parliament and members of the Scottish Parliament, high-level advice on the sensitivities of the UK political environment, and advice on an Office of Fair Trading inquiry into the takeover.

Compass Group plc – Rail Gourmet UK

He also advised on maintaining relations with train operating companies during this period when part of their catering supply was under scrutiny.

Compass Group’s takeover of Rail Gourmet UK catering from SwissAir was cleared by the Office of Fair Trading in 2002, following a detailed regulatory investigation.
Jonathan Roberts advised Compass Group on rail competition matters during this extensive process, including the extent of on-train and on-station competition and the transparent nature of the buyer-led marketplace.

Moto – OFT inquiry

Jonathan Roberts worked with Moto to assemble the evidence base for the OFT inquiry.

Moto, the motorway service area subsidiary of Compass Group, was cleared by the Office of Fair Trading in 2000 of anti-competitive supply of services, along with other MSA operators.
The OFT decided against a reference to the Competition Commission because MSAs had a high cost base which they could only offset through catering and petrol sales. Highways Agency regulations prevented operation of convenience supermarkets, advertising and provide other products and services which it would be normal to offer in a conventional purchasing environment.