Marriott International and Lefay agree on joint venture: the advisors

Marriott International and Italian luxury wellness hospitality specialist Lefay have signed binding agreements to enter a joint venture, bringing the Lefay brand into Marriott’s portfolio. The joint venture would entail an equal partnership aimed at managing and developing the brand through long-term management contracts, while leaving ownership of the real estate assets with the Leali family.

The advisors

Gibson Dunn supported Marriott International, with a team led by Dubai-based partner Marwan Elaraby (pictured) and including associates Krishna Parikh and Caitlin Moss. Partner Claire Shepherd and associate Aakarsh Narula worked on antitrust aspects.

In connection with the operation, Bär & Karrer advised the Lefay on Swiss law matters, with a team composed by Lugano-based partner Andrea Ziswiler (corporate, M&A), Zurich-based partner Rocco Rigozzi (corporate, real estate) and Lugano-based associate Martina Giacometti (corporate, M&A).

Moreover, Gitti and Partners advised Lefay on M&A profiles, with a multi-disciplinary team led by managing partner Gregorio Gitti and partner Daniele L. Cusumano, with support from associates Claudia Cioffi and Giangiacomo Magnifico. Partner Marco Blei oversaw all IP aspects, Flavio Monfrini worked on data protection, Riccardo Sciaudone on antitrust and golden power, and Gianluigi Strambi on tax profiles.

Belluzzo International Partners Studio Legale Tributario suported Lefay on tax and corporate matters, focusing on the joint venture’s structuring, with a team including equity partner Enrico Rimini, Ivan Mastrototaro, Alberto Franceschetti and Francesco Citerni.

Chiomenti advised Lefay throughout negotiations and in all commercial agreements with Marriott International, with a team composed by partner Umberto Borzi, managing associate Luca Cerciello and associate Emanuele Cossa.

Mediobanca served as sole finacial advisor for Lefay.