Norton Rose is advising Wanadoo and France Télécom on Wanadoo's £1.65 billion ($2.65 billion) share offer for Freeserve.
Freeserve, a subsidiary of Dixons Group, is a US internet business that delivers free internet access and UK-focused e-commerce and internet services. Wanadoo, a subsidiary of France Télécom, is an internet and directories company operating in France.
The acquisition is a step in Wanadoo's plan to expand its operations internationally. The combined company will offer a range of new media services including ISP, portal and e-commerce services, and traditional and new media directory services.
Partners Chris Norfolk and Dominic Stuttaford, both of the London office of Norton Rose, provided tax advice to Wanadoo and France Télécom.
Freeserve turned to Herbert Smith with London tax partner Bradley Phillips, assisted by Sam Moore, advising.
Linklaters in London worked with Dixons on the disposal. Partner Tom Scott, assisted by Dominic Winter, worked on tax matters.
