Hogan Lovells advised a2e Venture Catalysts Limited (a2e) and Newco on the acquisition from OMNOVA Solutions of its U.K.-based Muraspec commercial wallcovering business. The US$7 million transaction was announced on 6 March 2012.

Muraspec produces and distributes wallcoverings and other interior surfacing products, primarily to commercial markets in the U.K., Europe and the Middle East. The acquisition includes a plant in Kent, U.K., a design and distribution center outside London, plus sales offices in Paris, Warsaw and Dubai.

This transaction marks one of several private equity acquisitions on which Hogan Lovells has advised this year, including advising long-standing client Kelso Place Asset Management LLP on its acquisition of the iconic global fashion brand Nicole Farhi alongside current owner, private equity firm, OpenGate Capital; long-established clients Hawksford International and Dunedin on the acquisition of trust and corporate services provider Trustcorp Jersey Limited in January; the Founders and Management of Natural Products Worldwide on its sale to Inflexion Private Equity in February; and Abcam on its US$170 million acquisition of Epitomics in March.

The Hogan Lovells team advising a2e was led by Co-Head of private equity Alan Greenough, supported by partner Amit Nayyar and associate Monika Przygoda.

Commenting on the transaction, Alan said:

“We are pleased to have advised a2e on this important acquisition. The global commercial wallcovering market tends to require a regional focus and a2e is in an ideal position to support this and future growth.”