Bertelsmann is increasing its ownership of Gruner + Jahr to 100 percent by acquiring Jahr Holding’s 25.1 percent shareholding. The transaction was agreed among Gruner + Jahr’s shareholders. Bertelsmann’s acquisition of the remaining shares in Gruner + Jahr will become effective on November 1, 2014.  The purchase price is being paid in cash, and the parties have agreed not to disclose the amount.

Hengeler Mueller advised Bertelsmann on the transaction. The Hengeler Mueller team included partners Bernd Wirbel and Gerd Krieger (both Corporate/M&A, Düsseldorf) as well as associates Daniela Böning (Corporate/M&A) and Patrick H. Wilkening (IP) (both Düsseldorf).