Insider Media Limited

Leamington Spa-based law firm Wright Hassall has advised on a multimillion-euro deal involving two overseas fishing tackle manufacturers. The firm acted for Germany-based Zebco Sports Europe as it was acquired by US-headquartered Zebco Brands.

The two companies had the same corporate parent until a management buyout in 2001.

After the MBO, Zebco Brands operated in the Americas and Asia, while Zebco Sports Europe continued to develop its business in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, under the ownership of Peter Delwes.

Delwes will remain as managing director of Zebco Sports Europe and report to Zebco Brands’ president, Jeff Pontius.

Robert Lee, head of corporate at Wright Hassall, acted on the deal for Zebco Sports Europe, which involved the sale of its business and assets in the UK, France, Germany and USA.

He said: “We have worked with Zebco Sports Europe for over eight years and have supported their sustained growth over that period.

“This just goes to show the versatility of our corporate team and that is highlighted by this particular deal.

“The management of this complex corporate project required cooperation with a network of lawyers across Europe and the US, something we are more than comfortable with.

“Both parties were happy with the final outcome and this agreement should enable them to prosper for the foreseeable future as it provides the opportunity to expand across Europe and sell more products.”