JWS advises EQT on its acquisition of VetPartners

News Written by Johnson Winter Slattery
stethoscope at the vet

Leading independent law firm, Johnson Winter Slattery, has advised global private equity firm EQT on its proposed acquisition of VetPartners.

The JWS team provided legal advice to EQT on all corporate and regulatory aspects of the transaction to acquire VetPartners, Australia and New Zealand’s largest veterinary clinic service provider, from National Veterinary Associates, Inc.

Drawing on its global animal health experience, EQT intends to support VetPartners’ healthcare practitioners in focusing on animal care across its network of 267 general practice clinics and specialty hospitals. EQT also intends to invest significantly in diagnostic equipment, technology, innovation, recruitment and continued professional development of the clinics’ combined 1,300 highly skilled veterinarians and over 3,000 nurses and clinical support staff.

Partners James Rozsa and Divesh Patel led the JWS team, which comprised Special Counsel Jan Hards,  Associates Nathan Ricardo, Nathan Shapiro and Francesca Gazal, and Ella Furphy.  Bell Gully advised on the New Zealand aspects of the transaction.

Partner James Rozsa said, “JWS is delighted to have advised EQT on its agreement to acquire VetPartners. We look forward to assisting EQT to close out the transaction and to see EQT support VetPartners’ extensive network of veterinary clinics to provide high-quality health services to the animals in their care.”

David Forde, Investment Advisor and Co-Head of EQT Private Equity ANZ, said, “As one of the leading global animal health investors, EQT is uniquely positioned to support VetPartners’ continued growth and sustained delivery of high-quality healthcare for the pets that families cherish.”

The transaction is subject to customary conditions and approvals and is expected to close around the end of the calendar year.

About Johnson Winter Slattery

JWS is a leading independent Australian law firm engaged by major corporates and investment funds on their most challenging transactions and disputes.


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Angela Welsh
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Maureen Grose
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T: +61 2 8247 9697 | M: +61 447 004 445
E: maureen.grose@jws.com.au

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