De Brauw, Simpson Thacher scoop $7bn VNU merger

De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett are putting the finished touches to the $7bn merger of two market research companies, VNU and IMS Health Incorporated.

The firms advised VNU on the deal that sees IMS shareholders to receive $11.25 per share in cash and 0.60415 VNU shares for each IMS share.

De Brauw, which advised on Dutch law aspects, is the regular counsel for VNU and recent instructions include the sale of VNUs directories business last year. Simpson, here providing advice on US law, also worked on that deal advising VNU World Directories.

The De Brauw team was led by corporate partners Arne Grimme and Jaap Winter while the Simpson team was headed by partner John Finley. Sullivan & Cromwell and Stibbe advised IMS.