Investec has advised Merk-Echt on its partnership with Brantsandpatents, backed by Buysse & Partners
About the deal
Investec has advised Merk-Echt, a Netherlands-based trademark specialist, on its partnership with Brantsandpatents, a Belgian intellectual property services firm backed by Buysse & Partners.
The transaction brings Merk-Echt into a larger, multidisciplinary IP services platform and reflects continued consolidation within the European IP services sector. The deal represents Investec’s eighth completed transaction in the IP services market over the past 24 months globally, building on its experience advising clients such as Rouse and HGF on IP-led growth strategies.
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From the initial discussions to completion, Marleen and Jasper’s team from Investec provided us with excellent support. Their commitment and expertise gave us peace of mind and confidence at every stage of the process.
About Merk-Echt
Founded in 1997, Merk-Echt has established a strong position in the Netherlands as a trademark specialist, known for its efficient and client-focused approach. The firm employs over 30 professionals and provides a comprehensive range of recurring trademark services, including research, registration, renewals and legal support. Merk-Echt manages a portfolio of more than 28,000 trademarks.
Strengthening the IP services landscape
Following a strategic review, Merk-Echt determined that partnering with a larger organisation would support its long-term growth ambitions. By joining Brantsandpatents, Merk-Echt gains access to a broader platform while retaining its focus on high-quality trademark services.
The transaction also includes Brndpwr, Merk-Echt’s recently launched venture offering accessible trademark registration solutions for small businesses and self-employed professionals, which will become part of the Brantsandpatents group.
For Brantsandpatents, the acquisition strengthens its brand protection offering and further enhances its position in the Benelux. The combination brings together deep patent expertise with scaled trademark and brand protection capabilities, creating a strengthened regional IP services group positioned to support innovative companies with integrated intellectual property solutions.
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Joining Brantsandpatents enables Merk-Echt to continue its growth within a larger, multidisciplinary IP group that shares our values. Together, we can accelerate innovation, expand our services and offer even greater value to our clients across borders.
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Merk-Echt is a perfect strategic and cultural fit for our group. Both teams share a strong focus on efficiency, digitalisation and innovation, without losing sight of personal service and legal quality. This acquisition allows us to better serve clients across the entire Benelux.
Our role
Investec advised Merk-Echt throughout the entire sell-side process up to closing, including:
- Meeting with management and information gathering
- Running a competitive auction process
- Deal structuring and price negotiations
- Management of the due diligence process
- Coordination of the legal documentation phase
