5.9.2024

Technology acquisitions can boost companies’ growth – or cause them to fail

Digital transformation is one of the greatest drivers of our time, and due to the rapid pace of development, digitalisation has shifted from support functions to the core of the business. It has been estimated that the money spent on carrying out the transformation will double from the current two trillion to four trillion dollars by 2027

This all materialises as technological transformation projects and system acquisitions. At best, successfully implemented transformation boosts new growth in the company while delays, dysfunctional software and overspending the budget can even jeopardise the business operations, particularly given that more and more customer interfaces are digital.

When companies undertake a transformation project, they should therefore reserve enough time and resources for it. External experts can also help evaluate the project and any related risks. If the project is a failure, related disputes can end up in court.

One factor that is essential for a well-implemented transformation project is a carefully drafted contract. A functioning contract provides flexibility and describes the targets, timetable and responsibilities as tangibly as possible for the duration of the project but also for the use of the new solution after the project. When the contract is in order, it is easy to monitor its execution. At best, the contract also provides a solid foundation if any disputes arise.

Advance planning is often a key to favourable results in disputes as well. When the contract is clear, it has been complied with on both sides and the organisation is prepared for any disputes, the project has better chances of success. In a best-case scenario, the transformation project is so skilfully planned, organised and led that it is not necessary to even consider leaning on these precautions.

Latest references

We assisted Smarter Contracts Ltd in the process where the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency Traficom confirmed it to be an EU-recognised data intermediation service. Non-EU companies must have a legal representative in some EU country so that they can offer data intermediation services in accordance with the Data Governance Act. Smarter Contracts is based in Great Britain and selected Finland for the task. Smarter Contracts is the first non-EU data intermediation service registered by Traficom. Wayne Lloyd, Founder & CEO of Smarter Contracts, remarked:  The support from the Castrén team was exceptional from start to finish. Pioneering new territory is never without its challenges, and as the first non-EU data intermediation service provider, we faced significant legal uncertainties. Despite these complexities, the Castrén team expertly guided us through each step with remarkable efficiency, providing the certainty we needed. Smarter Contracts leverages its proprietary Pulse Permissions Protocol® to deliver advanced consent and access rights management services. This milestone highlights Castrén & Snellman’s proficiency in navigating intricate regulatory landscapes, whilst recognising the relevance of Smarter Contracts’ innovative approach to secure, compliant data management.
Case published 11.12.2024
We assisted Pharmaca Health Intelligence in its acquisition of Mediaattori Ltd’s PODIUM Connect® and PODIUM Visits businesses. Through the acquisition, Pharmaca Health Intelligence strengthens its extensive service offerings in medical information, data-driven management, and education for both healthcare and pharmaceutical companies. Pharmaca Health Intelligence is a pioneer in digital medical information and a reliable partner for wellbeing services counties, the private healthcare sector and pharmacies. The company invests in the development of technology and service solutions related to pharmaceutical information, also on an international scale.
Case published 5.12.2024
We are acting as the lead counsel to Fortum in a cross-border transaction in which Fortum is selling its recycling and waste business. The business is sold to thematic impact investing firm Summa Equity through its portfolio company NG Group. The debt-free purchase price is approximately EUR 800 million. The transaction is subject to authority approval and customary closing conditions. Fortum’s recycling and waste business to be sold comprises municipal and industrial waste management and end-to-end plastics, metals, ash, slag and hazardous waste treatment and recycling services. These businesses are located in Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Norway and currently employ approximately 900 employees.
Case published 18.7.2024
We advised Andritz Oy, a part of ANDRITZ group, with their acquisition of all the shares in Procemex Oy. The acquisition further strengthens ANDRITZ’s automation and digitalisation portfolio. Procemex is a global leader in integrated web monitoring and web inspection solutions for the pulp and paper industry. It has a team of more than 100 vision systems experts and has subsidiaries in Germany, Japan and the US. ANDRITZ offers a broad portfolio of innovative plants, equipment, systems, services and digital solutions for a wide range of industries and end markets. ANDRITZ is a global market leader in all four of its business areas – Pulp & Paper, Metals, Hydropower and Environment & Energy. The publicly listed group has around 30,000 employees and over 280 locations in more than 80 countries.
Case published 18.7.2024