Acapo and Onsagers merge to create the leading IP advisory firm in Norway

Intellectual property (“IP”) advisory firms Acapo AS (“Acapo”), and Onsagers AS (“Onsagers”) announced today that they are merging to create the leading IP advisory firm in Norway, backed by financial sponsor Longship. The transaction unites two complementary and highly reputable firms and marks an important milestone on the journey to building a best-in-class network for strategic IP management, patents and trademark advisory. The new, combined firm will gather the highest level of IP expertise under one brand and advise their clients from offices across Norway, Sweden, Germany and the UK, as well as through partners in more than 130 countries worldwide.

Together, Acapo and Onsagers aim to build a holistic and data-driven IP advisory firm in the Nordics, combining an international mindset with a thorough understanding of Nordic customer values.

“We are currently experiencing a rapidly changing regulatory landscape and stronger demand for strategic IP protection” says Morten Hatlem, CEO of Onsagers. “By joining forces with Acapo, we will gather the best IP expertise under one roof, expand our service offering and geographical reach, and invest in talent and technology to deliver even more value to businesses navigating complex IP challenges.”

Hilde Vold-Burgess, CEO of Acapo, adds, “Onsagers and Acapo share a strong cultural and professional alignment, and this merger allows us to leverage our combined expertise for the benefit of our clients. Together, we are better equipped to meet the growing demands for high-quality IP services while developing ‘the place to be’ for both young and seasoned professionals wanting to be part of a Nordic growth journey.”

The merger is subject to approval from Norwegian competition authorities.

About Acapo

With roots going back to 1924, Acapo is one of Norway’s oldest IP advisory firms with offices in Bergen, Trondheim, Oslo, and Fredrikstad. Acapo is known for its strong presence in the offshore, industrial technology and aquaculture sectors, offering tailored advice and strategic solutions to protect and commercialize intellectual property. The firm’s reputation is built on its highly skilled employees and long dedication to customer success.

About Onsagers

Founded in 1945, Onsagers is Norway’s largest IP law and consulting firm, providing end-to-end services in IP law, patents, trademarks, and IP strategy. Onsagers serves a diverse client base, from startups to multinational corporations, and is known for its innovative solutions and tech-driven approach. With offices in Oslo, Bergen, Tromsø, Sweden, Germany, and the UK, Onsagers combines a deep understanding of local markets with global expertise. In 2024, Onsagers partnered with Longship to support their further development into a more holistic and international IPR advisor.

About Longship

Longship is a Norwegian private equity firm established by a group of experienced investment professionals in 2015. Longship invests in companies with significant growth potential in the Norwegian lower mid-market and are applying a transformational growth approach. The investment team currently consists of twelve professionals, making it the leading player in the Norwegian lower mid-market. Longship manages approx. NOK 5.2 bn across three funds.

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