We have secured a position on the first legal panel of French banking group, Credit Agricole, France's largest banking group, present in more than 70 countries in Europe, America and Asia.
The appointment which became effective as of 24 September 2007, is for an initial term of 15 months. The appointment is a world-wide appointment for all of our practice areas covering all of Crédit Agricole's subsidiaries and branches, including Calyon and the former Crédit Lyonnais subsidiaries.
Lovells is the fourth member of the panel (existing members are Norton Rose, Baker & McKenzie and the French firm, Depardieu). We have been informed that, in the short- to medium-term, the only other members of the panel will be Freshfields and Gide Loyrette Nouel. Our appointment will be announced to Credit Agricole's 700 lawyers at their annual conference on 8 October.
Comment: The appointment to the panel represents a significant opportunity for the firm. Crédit Agricole is very keen to make the panel work, and over the next few weeks we will be looking at ways in which doors can be opened for all of us.