News and current topics from various practice areas and industries

The Norwegian government has recently published a consultation proposal for new national planning guidelines on land use and mobility, sparking debate about a potential ban on cabin (vacation home) development in vulnerable natural areas.

Many developers have experienced that it is rare for a building permit application to be considered complete on the first submission. The prevailing practice is that the municipality’s initial response is a deficiency notice listing minor or major shortcomings in the application.

So-called “greenwashing” has been a focus area for the Norwegian Consumer Authority (Forbrukertilsynet) in recent years. Now, the Consumer Authority, together with 19 other consumer protection agencies, has signed an open letter to the clothing industry, warning against the use of vague and unsubstantiated environmental claims and providing concrete guidance for marketing practices. These recommendations are also relevant for other industries.

The Norwegian government has proposed limiting the right to recover case costs when an appeal is upheld. This proposal has sparked significant debate, as it could have serious implications for individuals seeking justice in administrative cases.

On April 23 this year, the European Commission issued its first infringement fines to Apple and Meta, amounting to €500 million and €200 million respectively, for breaches of the EU’s new Digital Markets Act (“DMA”). The DMA aims to limit the market power of major digital platform providers designated as gatekeepers.

We are pleased to, together with our tax colleagues in Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP and Affiliates, have assisted Optio Group, in their strategic expansion into the Scandinavian market acquiring 100% of the shares in S INSURANCE AS.

Along with our industry colleagues at Nixon Peabody LLP we have assisted Platinum Equity owned Solenis in the 100% acquisition of shares in Lilleborg.

We are proud to have assisted the owners of Scelto in their successful sale to Iniva Gruppen! This strategic move marks an exciting new chapter for Scelto, now part of a larger technology ecosystem, enhancing its position with 40 skilled Java developers.

We are pleased to, together with our colleagues in LARK, have assisted Fenix Outdoor International AG in their acquisition of a 65% stake in Devold of Norway AS. Devold will now become Fenix Outdoor’s number one wool brand, enhancing their already impressive portfolio.