NSTLAW Stankovic & Partners has advised the seller in the acquisition of Banjalučka Pivara, the largest brewery in Bosnia and Herzegovina, by Olvi plc, marking the successful completion of a landmark regional M&A transaction in the food and beverage sector.

The transaction was signed in September 2025 and closed on January 5, 2026, following the fulfilment of all agreed conditions precedent and the receipt of regulatory clearance. In particular, the Competition Council of Bosnia and Herzegovina approved the acquisition, pursuant to which Olvi acquired 100% of the shares and voting rights in Banjalučka Pivara. The transaction took legal and accounting effect as of January 2, 2026, and the documentation for registering the change of ownership was submitted to the competent local court on January 5, 2026.

NSTLAW provided comprehensive legal support to the seller throughout the entire transaction, including transaction structuring, negotiations, drafting and review of transaction documentation, and assistance through signing and closing. The NSTLAW team was led by Nenad Stankovic, with Mitar Simonovic, Luka Marosiuk, and Bojan Krstic. The buyer was advised by Marić & Co Law Firm Ltd. of Sarajevo.

With the completion of the transaction, Banjalučka Pivara has become a full member of the Olvi Group, strengthening the Finnish beverage group’s presence in Southeast Europe and reaffirming its long-term commitment to the development of strong local brands and markets.

Founded in 1873, Banjalučka Pivara is one of the most established breweries in the region, employing approximately 240 people and enjoying a strong market position in Bosnia and Herzegovina, alongside a rapidly growing presence in Serbia. Under Olvi’s ownership, the company retains its identity, brands, production capacities, and workforce, while gaining access to the group’s international expertise, know-how, and broader distribution network.

Commenting on the transaction, Patrik Lundell, CEO of Olvi Group, noted that the acquisition represents an important step in implementing the group’s multi-local strategy, combining strong local operations with international experience to drive sustainable growth and long-term value. Ilija Šetka, CEO of Banjalučka Pivara, highlighted that joining Olvi Group opens a new chapter for the brewery, enabling accelerated growth and market expansion while preserving the company’s core values, people, and heritage.

The successful completion of this transaction further underscores NSTLAW’s strong track record in advising on complex, high-value regional M&A transactions, particularly in regulated industries and cross-border settings.