We acted as legal advisers to Ipsos in the acquisition of MRBI.

The transaction remains subject to final clearance from the European Commission: When the Commission approved the merger of WPP and TNS, one of the conditions of the approval was that the seller would dispose of MRBI.

The transaction gives Ipsos the opportunity to significantly expand its activities in Ireland by the acquisition of a strong brand in its market sector.

Ipsos conducts survey-based market research.

Gerry Halpenny, a Partner in the Business Department led the transaction with support from Gerry O'Hanlon, Partner on property matters, Jennifer O'Neill, Partner on employment matters, Gillian Dully, Associate on pensions matters, and Zelda Deasy, Associate on corporate matters.

September 2009.