Commercial, Corporate and M&A

Cresco 'has all the advantages of a young and dynamic firm' with 'a clear focus and expertise in a niche market' combined with 'swift replies and nearly 24/7 availability'. Its 'mind-boggling' turnaround times suit its client roster of entrepreneurs, emerging and growth companies, and investors.

The Antwerp-based corporate and M&A team is praised for 'always having the big picture in mind' and was instructed by Telenet and Magnitude 9.5 Ventures on the structuring and financing of a joint venture in the virtual reality entertainment sector.

The 'very knowledgeable' David Dessers heads the practice, which also includes managing partner and 'real out-of-the-box thinker' Filip De Schouwer.

Industry Focus: IT and Telecom

The ICT practice at Cresco is highlighted particularly for its representation of start-ups and scale-ups. Newtec is a key client, for which the department has assisted with technology agreements, including for the sale of its main satellite navigation system. The group also has strength in contentious matters and represented B-hive.eu in the negotiation and settlement of a trade mark and trade name dispute. Managing partner David Dessers advised the same client on the set-up of strategic and commercial fintech partnerships between major Belgian and international financial institutions and technology companies.

Real Estate and Construction

Real estate transactional work and litigation are key areas of expertise for Cresco's team, which represents a client base predominantly made up of hotels, retail, and food and beverage entities. Filip De Schouwer advises Percassi on a range of retail lease agreements in the Benelux region. Dispute resolution specialist Natalie Lemense and senior associate Steven Daems are also noted.

Dispute Resolution

Cresco's 'solution-oriented' team is well known for its expertise in construction, corporate, insolvency and commercial disputes. Practice head Natalie Lemense is 'an exceptional litigator'.