Addleshaw Goddard‘s team is well-equipped to oversee the full spectrum of retail and consumer matters; its expertise includes advertising and promotions regulatory advice, litigation, M&A and real estate issues. The team is headed up by Andrew Rosling and Rona Bar-Isaac. Rosling specialises in M&A deals with a focus on joint ventures and his clients include household names, while Bar-Isaac’s expertise includes market investigations and litigation. Georgina Powling is noted for her depth of knowledge in franchising, licensing and collaboration agreements. Another notable individual includes Sophie Taylor; she has a thorough understanding of international retail markets, particularly in China and South Asia, and can advise on the impact of digital trends on UK markets. Personnel changes include the arrival of Daniel Sweeney, the former deputy head of retail at TLT.
Retail and consumer in London
Addleshaw Goddard
Responsables de la pratique:
Andrew Rosling; Rona Bar-Isaac
Autres avocats clés:
Georgina Powling; Sophie Taylor; Daniel Sweeney
Principaux clients
Boohoo
Arla
Entain
Kraft Heinz
PZ Cussons
Samworth Brothers
Symington’s
The Co-operative Group
JD Sports
Associated British Foods
Principaux dossiers
- Advised JD Sports Fashion on its accelerated bookbuild placing of new ordinary shares to raise gross proceeds of approximately £464.2m.
- Advised Ted Baker on a franchise agreement for stores in England.
CMS
The team at CMS covers a broad range of expertise with key focus areas encompassing consumer law issues, GDPR compliance work, data protection issues, product liability advice and advertising rules. Additional expertise includes brand protection, manufacturing and ESG mandates. Tom Scourfield is well regarded for his contentious IP expertise and has overseen matters pertaining to dilution issues, acquired distinctiveness, comparative advertising and injunctions. Katie Nagy de Nagybaczon‘s clients include both retail and e-commerce clients, which benefit from her expertise in the fashion sector where she advises on growth and exit strategies, fundraisings and reorganisations. The pair jointly lead the practice, which also includes Helen Johnson, who is noted for her representation of high-profile clients such as White Stuff, Moss Bros, French Connection and Sofa.com. Melanie Shefford also has ample retail experience having advised on complex commercial agreements and compliance matters within the sector.
Responsables de la pratique:
Tom Scourfield; Katie Nagy de Nagybaczon
Autres avocats clés:
Helen Johnson; Melanie Shefford
Principaux clients
JD Sports
Sainsbury’s (including Argos / Habitat)
Marks & Spencer
Unilever
Nestlé
Associated British Foods / Primark
Samsonite
Costco
French Connection
Sofa.com
SharkNinja
Uniqlo
New Balance
Finsbury Food
Revlon
Brothers Drinks
Build-A-Bear Workshop
Dune
White Stuff
Dreams
Moss Bros
Baxters
Costcutter
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Sainsbury’s, including Argos and Habitat, on the full spectrum of tenant portfolio work and real estate litigation, including most recently on the Argos store exit.
- Advised JD Sports on its acquisition of online beauty, hair and supplement brand Hairburst.
- Advised M&S on its commercial contracts, including a new outsourcing arrangement for support of its critical in-store technology and the negotiation of new arrangements with key logistics, warehousing and transportation suppliers.
Dentons
Dentons fields a sizeable multidisciplinary team, which handles the full spectrum of retail work include outsourcings, commercial contracts, real estate issues, privacy and cybersecurity matters, franchising work and dispute resolution. The practice utilises its global presence to advise clients both locally and internationally. Derek McCombe heads up the practice from the Glasgow office; his experience extends across 15 years’ and includes advising clients on international corporate and commercial matters. Scott Singer is well regarded for his advice to high-profile high street clients such as Marks and Spencer, John Lewis Partnership and Sainsbury’s; his particular specialisms include handling commercial contracts, IT issues and privacy work. In a recent highlight, Anna Copeman represented American Eagle Outfitters before the High Court, in proceedings pertaining to a claim concerning passing off and breach of contract. James Batham joined the practice from Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP - where he led the retail and consumer sector teams - in mid-2022.
Responsables de la pratique:
Derek McCombe
Autres avocats clés:
Scott Singer; Anna Copeman; James Batham
Les références
‘Professional, very knowledgeable on matters at hand.’
‘Very knowledgeable about their specialisms and provide timely advice.’
Principaux clients
John Lewis Partnership (including Waitrose)
Sainsbury’s (including Sainsbury’s Bank and Argos)
Marks & Spencer
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill Group
TopGolf
Avis Budget Group
Sports Direct / Frasers Group
Sigma Sports
ghd
Wella International/KKR
American Eagle Outfitters
Lottoland
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Sainsbury’s on matters including commercial contracts and high-value dispute resolution cases.
- Advised Fraser Groups on matters including real estate, litigation, data privacy and employment.
- Acted for Marks & Spencer plc in respect of High Court proceedings commenced against Aldi UK Limited in relation to its iconic product, Colin the Caterpillar.
DLA Piper
DLA Piper has an international retail and consumer practice which is led by a team of specialists. Noel Haywood leads the global consumer goods, food and retail sector group, which encompasses three international sub sectors; IP specialist Ruth Hoy steers the fashion and retail sector and commercial expert Mark Dewar oversees the consumer goods sector practice, while Haywood also sits as the head of the food sector group. Both Sophie Lessar and Chloe Forster co-lead the broader UK team; Lessar acts as a financial services and consumer sector specialist, while Forster focuses on technology related work. Noteworthy team changes include the London hires of environment and health and safety specialist Nick Rock from Reed Smith LLP in July 2021 and brand protection lawyer Patricia Collis from Bird & Bird LLP in December 2021, as well as commercial contracts expert Ryan Harrison from Browne Jacobson LLP in November 2021.
Responsables de la pratique:
Chloe Forster; Sophie Lessar; Noel Haywood; Mark Dewar; Ruth Hoy
Autres avocats clés:
Nick Rock; Ryan Harrison; Patricia Collis
Les références
‘They go above and beyond to deliver value for money so that we can get the high quality, reliable legal expertise we need within our budget.’
‘They know the sector and understand how things work commercially in practice, and are always able to reflect that reality into our contracts.’
‘The firm is extremely well resourced with knowledgeable experts on ESG.’
Principaux clients
Phillip Morris International
Unilever
H&M
Mondelez
Amazon
Nike
Converse
Bacardi Martini
Reckitt Benckiser
Ecolab
Heineken
Burberry Limited
LVMH
Lego
Lululemon
Levi Strauss
Sephora
Coca Cola
Danone
JD Sports
Marks & Spencer
Clarks
Noble Foods Group
Alteri Partners
Deloitte
Founders of Pangea Laboratories
John Lobb
Graphite Capital
Tamara Ralph
Dalton BidCo
Tate & Lyle
IAG Avios
Specialized Bicycle Components Inc
Hurtigruten
Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation
RCI
Principaux dossiers
- Acted for Teneo Restructuring Limited as the administrators of the Arcadia Group of companies in relation to all real estate matters and associated secured lender issues in managing the Group’s exit from the leasehold portfolio.
- Acted for John Lobb SAS in High Court litigation brought by John Lobb Limited, a bespoke, hand made shoe manufacturer based in London which has existed since 1866; litigation concerns the right to use the name, JOHN LOBB.
- Advised Clarks with a proposal to change employee terms and conditions in its corporate head office and distribution centres.
Osborne Clarke LLP
Osborne Clarke LLP‘s practice is proactive in advising clients on aspects of digitalisation, transformation and technology mandates, and has been recently involved in work relating to NFTs. The sizeable practice is now led by Anna Elliott, who took over the role from Dolf Darnton in early 2022′ Darnton still contributes to the practice. Elliott’s client base primarily lies within the fashion and luxury sub-sectors, where she guides clients through complex issues, and also leverages her experience in Australia to handle international matters. Katie Vickery is noted for her specialist expertise in international and compliance advice and she pays particular attention to product safety, ESG and consumer protection matters. Richard May was promoted to partner in May 2021.
Responsables de la pratique:
Autres avocats clés:
Les références
‘Very personable, thoughtful team, offering diverse experience and expertise. Very responsive, friendly and commercial advice.’
‘Ready to invest energy and resources in the client relationship including facilitating training and introducing colleagues across markets.’
‘Anna Elliot has been a great sparring partner and support in navigating multi-jurisdictional projects. She is proactive and commercial and offers clear, practical advice.’
Principaux clients
Marks &Spencer
Danone
Reckitt
THG
Diageo
Lovehoney
InTheStyle
British Land
The Entertainer
Howdens
L’Oréal
Superdry
French Connection
Starbucks
Mulberry
Principaux dossiers
- Advised In The Style on a £105m AIM listing.
- Acted for Diageo on all UK employment law matters, including employment disputes and tribunal claims, employee relations advice, and the employment aspects of commercial transactions.
RPC
The ‘very responsive and knowledgeable team’ at RPC is able to advise on the full spectrum of retail matters. Its clients span across a multitude of sectors, with particular emphasis in the fashion and beauty arenas; clients include House of Fraser, Tommy Hilfiger Europe, Dolce & Gabbana and Charlotte Tilbury. The practice is led by both Jeremy Drew and Karen Hendy. Drew’s expertise enables a deep understanding of both contentious and non-contentious matters, including multi-jurisdictional arbitrations, while Hendy advises listed companies and their subsidiaries with particular expertise in overseeing distressed purchases and acquisitions. Ciara Cullen is singled out for her long-standing experience in the drinks industry. Internal changes include the arrival of commercial litigator Rathi Thiagamoorthy from Dentons and commercial senior associate Hettie Homewood, who previously worked in-house at ghd.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jeremy Drew; Karen Hendy
Autres avocats clés:
Ciara Cullen; Rathi Thiagamoorthy; Hettie Homewood
Les références
‘The expertise, commitment and support of the RPC team has been consistent and invaluable. Their engagement has made a material difference to companies across the retail industry tackling key challenges in an innovative and accessible way.’
‘The team are consistently accessible, dynamic in their thinking and open to new approaches.’
‘Very responsive and knowledgeable team able to provide a broad range of legal services.’
Principaux clients
Sports Direct / Frasers Group / Flannels / Studio Retail
Owners of Globe-Trotter
AB InBev
Halo Group
Azzurri Group
Stella McCartney
Irish Distillers / Pernod Ricard UK / Absolut Vodka / Chivas Brothers
Shepherd Neame
Daks Simpson
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners
Charlotte Tilbury
Tartine et Chocolat
Gist
Principaux dossiers
- Acted for Kout Food Group in a dispute pertaining to a mix of complex commercial and IP issues across multiple jurisdictions, resulting in a win before the Supreme Court.
- Advised McArthurGlen on commercial contracts and bespoke project work.
Baker McKenzie
The team at Baker McKenzie places particular focus on e-commerce and online trading matters and guides clients which seek to grow their online presence. The team oversees supply chain issues, consumer sales, product liability matters and commercial contracts. David Scott‘s practice focuses on cross-border M&A and joint ventures for clients within the consumer and healthcare sectors, while Helen Brown specialises in both offline and online consumer sales work and the related matters including data privacy, sales promotions and advertising issues. Julia Hemmings‘ expertise lies within e-commerce, marketing and privacy issues; she is also well versed in technology matters that arise from consumer products. The trio jointly lead the practice. Timothy Gee retired in 2021.
Responsables de la pratique:
David Scott; Helen Brown; Julia Hemmings
Principaux clients
L’Oréal
Tapestry (formerly known as Coach Inc)
Edwardian Hotels Group
Unilever
Bidcorp Foodservice
KKR
Puig S.L.
Charlotte Tilbury
Capri Holdings
Mondelēz International
Bowers & Wilkins Group Limited (BWG)
Principaux dossiers
- Acted for Tapestry in respect of all its UK retail stores and numerous EMEA stores across its three brands: Coach, Kate Spade and Stuart Weitzman.
- Advised Capri Holdings on the management of its service arrangement to Michael Kors on its EMEA store expansion and maintenance.
Bird & Bird LLP
The retail and consumer practice at Bird & Bird LLP comprises multiple sub-teams spanning the food and beverage sector, the hotel, hospitality and leisure industry and the luxury, fashion and retail sector. Graeme Payne heads up the team; his practice focuses on advising retail and consumer businesses on both domestic and international growth expansion strategies. The team's expertise also includes sustainability, green advertising, technology and wellness strategies. E-commerce issues are also at the forefront of the group's focus, as the team advises on subscription terms, terms of sales, refund policies and social media influencer agreements. Ian Edwards advises on digital transformation projects, Robert Turner is a key contact for commercial and regulatory advice, and Victoria Hobbs handles disputes relating to franchising, licensing and distribution agreements.
Responsables de la pratique:
Graeme Payne
Autres avocats clés:
Ian Edwards; Robert Turner; Victoria Hobbs; Sophie Stoneham
Les références
‘The Bird & Bird retail and consumer team works very well together and thus provides exceptional services.’
‘B&B has such a wide-ranging base of extremely gifted solicitors across so many disciplines.’
‘Rob Turner and Sophie Stoneham are a great time – extremely responsive, direct in their advice, and able to manage an intense workload to deliver a great work product.’
Principaux clients
C&A
Snug
Marks & Spencer
Tempur Sealy
Lidl
HURR
Mothercare
Clean Beauty Co
Rothy’s
Lids UK
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Mothercare on its manufacturing, supply chain and distribution arrangements across multiple jurisdictions.
- Advised Tempur Sealy on due diligence and disclosure in relation to its acquisition of Dreams, the bed and mattress retailer which operates more than 200 stores across the UK.
- Acted for sustainable fashion rental platform HURR, the first peer-to-peer wardrobe rental platform, by providing strategic trade mark portfolio advice.
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP‘s practice advises on the full spectrum of retail and consumer related matters, from transactions and exit strategies to day-to-day issues and compliance work. The sizeable team is led by Carol Osborne, who has over 25 years’ worth of experience and mainly advises clients within the luxury goods space. Her long-standing experience enables sound advice to retail clients’ boards of directors and special board committees on matters concerning corporate governance, corporate transactions and fiduciary duties. Benjamin Lee is a key contact for transactional advice, including M&A and private equity mandates, while Richard Shaw is the go-to individual for commercial and outsourcing contracts.
Responsables de la pratique:
Carol Osborne
Autres avocats clés:
Benjamin Lee; Richard Shaw
Principaux clients
City Chic Collective Limited
Manzanita Capital
Clorox (Burt’s Bees)
FARFETCH Limited
Koniver Wellness
Tesco
Travelex
Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP
The practice at Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP is a key name for household brands and counts high-profile names on its client roster including Lego, Gymshark, DFS and Next. The group handles the full spectrum of retail mandates and leverages its international network to assist with global and cross-border mandates. The team is co-led by Paul Moorcroft and Amanda Partland in Birmingham and Leeds respectively; Moorcroft primarily focuses on real estate disputes, particularly relating to retail estates, and Partland is a key name for corporate transactions in the consumer space. Former practice head James Batham left to join Dentons in mid-2022.
Responsables de la pratique:
Paul Moorcroft; Amanda Partland
Les références
‘Every step of each service has been transparent, proficient and meticulous.’
‘The individuals we have worked with at Eversheds Sutherland are not only professional and efficient, but also friendly and accommodating.’
‘They engage promptly, their communication is excellent and they have supported us through each legal process in a precise and steadfast manner.’
Principaux clients
LEGO
Revolution Beauty Group
Wm Morrison Supermarkets plc
Gymshark
DFS
Frasers
Helly Hansen
Kering
Next
Newell Brands
Gowling WLG
The sizeable team at Gowling WLG advises retailers across all legal disciplines including handling competition, construction and IP matters. The team is co-led by John Coldham and Jocelyn Paulley, who moved into the role in March 2022; the pair took over from former head Chris Hunt, who focuses on real estate mandates. Coldham is well regarded for his expertise in both IP strategy and litigation, while Paulley acts for both established retail brands and start-ups, and leverages her data protection knowledge to oversee digital infrastructure mandates. Kate Swaine is also recommended for IP work and Sarah Riding handles commercial matters.
Responsables de la pratique:
John Coldham; Jocelyn Paulley
Autres avocats clés:
Chris Hunt; Kate Swaine; Sarah Riding
Principaux clients
Pret a Manger (Europe) Limited
Halfords Autocentres
Freddy SPA
Great Little Trading Co
The Midcounties Co-operative
THG (formerly known as The Hut Group)
Made.com
Unilever
The Jewellery Channel
Entain PLC
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Halfords Autocentres, a subsidiary of Halfords Group plc, on its acquisition of Universal Tyre and Autocentres.
- Advised Pret A Manger (Europe) Limited on the business critical, first generation outsourcing of its IT function to Tech Mahindra Limited.
- Advised THG on the corporate equity investment and on the key licence agreement which set out the commercial arrangements for THG to use Civo’s Kubernetes technology.
Linklaters LLP
Linklaters LLP advises a range of clients, from private equity funds and investors to high-profile and high street retailers. The team is trusted by global brands such as Unilever, L’Oreal and Nestlé to handle issues throughout the entire consumer value chain, overseeing production, manufacturing, supply and distribution matters and market entry issues. Paul McNicholl and Michael Honan co-lead the practice. McNicholl often advises FTSE 100 and Fortune 500 consumer and retail clients on cross-border M&A, corporate restructurings and joint ventures, while Honan’s consumer sector expertise includes acting for e-commerce businesses, luxury companies, supermarkets and consumer brand businesses.
Responsables de la pratique:
Paul McNicholl; Michael Honan
Principaux clients
Unilever plc
Nestlé S.A.
Caesars Entertainment Inc.
Yum! Brands
Travis Perkins
JD Sports
Telemos
Dr. Martens plc
Steinhoff International N.V.
Westfalia Fruit International
JDE Peet’s
Ocado
ASOS
Sainsbury’s
Caffe Nero
Charoen Pokphand Group Co., Ltd
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Unilever PLC on the sale of its global tea business to CVC Capital Partners for €4.5bn.
- Advised Caesars Entertainment on its £2.9bn public takeover of William Hill PLC and on the subsequent disposal of William Hill’s non-US online and retail businesses to 888, for £2.2bn.
- Advised the underwriting syndicate on the IPO of Moonpig Group plc.
Mishcon de Reya LLP
Mishcon de Reya LLP‘s practice utilises its MDR Brand Management business to advise clients on all retail-related matters, with expertise spanning brand licensing work, franchise developments, commercial and strategic partnerships, IP and trade mark strategies and reputation management issues. Sally Britton and Lewis Cohen jointly lead the team. Britton is well regarded for her brand protection work and often oversees clearance, enforcement and trade mark and design filing mandates. Cohen’s expertise encompasses high-profile endorsement arrangements, international franchising issues, product distribution matters, and retail website and app developments.
Responsables de la pratique:
Sally Britton; Lewis Cohen
Principaux clients
Sainsbury’s
eBay
Capital & Counties (Covent Garden London)
Christian Louboutin
Levi Strauss
Iceland Foods
Alexander McQueen
John Lewis
Ocado
TKMaxx
Morphe
Lidl
Wilko
Curry’s
Principaux dossiers
- Represented a number of retailers including Sainsbury’s, Iceland Foods, Wilko, Curry’s, Asda and The John Lewis Partnership bringing cartel damages claims against various manufacturers of trucks.
- Advised Brookfield on its acquisition of £330m worth of UK retail park assets from Hammerson Plc and the simultaneous financing.
- Acted for the management team of online beauty retailer Feelunique on its sale to Sephora, owned by LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton.
Pinsent Masons LLP
Pinsent Masons LLP‘s reputable practice is trusted by an array of high-profile household names including Tesco, The Body Shop, Sweaty Betty and The Co-Operative. The team's expertise encompasses the full spectrum of retail and consumer matters, with particular strength in competition, licensing and data protection mandates. Group head Tom Leman‘s long-standing experience is utilised to assist young brands seeking potential investors; other clients include high-profile retailers such as Jack Wills and Rapha. Praise is also given to Manchester-based legal director Zoe Betts, who is a health and safety specialist and works in product safety and trading law.
Responsables de la pratique:
Tom Leman
Autres avocats clés:
Zoe Betts
Principaux clients
Silentnight
The Co-Op
Avon Cosmetics
Booker
Tesco
The Body Shop
Rapha
Sweaty Betty
Motor Fuel Group
Principaux dossiers
- Acted for Tesco Stores as an intervener in the Judicial Review proceedings brought by Aldi Stores against the Independent Reviewer of the Rulings of the Advertising Standards Authority Council and the Advertising Standards Authority.
- Advised Seraphine Group plc on its initial public offering and proposed admission to the premium listing segment of the Official List and to trading on the London Stock Exchange’s Main Market for listed securities.
- Advised Aubin & Wills in respect of its appointment of Next Retail Limited to act as its managed service provider to market, sell and distribute its branded clothing, footwear and accessories online throughout the world.
Shoosmiths LLP
Noted for its ‘culture and values‘, the team at Shoosmiths LLP is well versed across the full spectrum of retail matters, with particular expertise in construction, advertising, employment, IP, insurance, M&A and restructuring mandates. London-based Gary Assim heads up the practice and is singled out for his IP expertise, where he represents clients in disputes concerning trade marks, copyright, design rights and patterns. Sanjeev Sharma practices from the Thames Valley offices and is well regarded for his corporate expertise, while Birmingham-based corporate occupier head Beth McArdle focuses on technology based mandates. Stuart Lawrenson in Solent is an employment specialist and the Manchester-based Kirsty Black oversees all property litigation matters.
Responsables de la pratique:
Gary Assim
Autres avocats clés:
Sanjeev Sharma; Beth McArdle; Stuart Lawrenson; Kirsty Black
Les références
‘Great culture and values. Builds trust. Delivers result.’
‘Gary Assim: Excellent lawyer, very skilled in his craft and can explain very complex matters in layman terms. He has a natural authority and is very good in mediations.’
‘Extremely responsive, practical and commercial. Beth McArdle leads a team offering a consistently high level of personalised service which has enormously benefited our organisation navigating the storms of Covid and coming out stronger on the other side.’
Principaux clients
Sportsdirect.com Retail Limited
Boots and Boots Opticians
Ann Summers
The Fashion Group
Selfridges Retail Limited
Boots PLC.
Topps Tiles (UK) Ltd
Ann Summers
Henkel Ltd
H&M
Mountain Warehouse
Estee Lauder Companies Inc
Bensons Beds
Dixons/carphone
Brooks Sports Inc
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Sportsdirect.com on its case concerning non-payment of rent arising from the pandemic and whether insurance covered the situation.
- Advised Clinique on its influential non-fungible token campaign.
- Advised Brooks Sports on its global battle with the new owners of Brooks Brothers who want to enter the sportswear market and use the brand ‘Brooks’.
Taylor Wessing LLP
The team at Taylor Wessing LLP advises clients on significant industry specific issues and also has experience in more niche areas including NFTs and asset fractionalisation issues, technology and data work, labelling issues, reputation management challenges, licensing mandates, supply chain management work and ESG matters. Edward Story acts for a variety of clients, from private companies to entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals and both UK and international businesses on corporate and commercial matters. Jason Rawkins is often sought out for his IP expertise and oversees issues pertaining to brands, designs and domain names. Story and Rawkins co-lead the department, which also fields Xuyang Zhu, who is recommended for her sound knowledge of IP rights and infringement disputes.
Responsables de la pratique:
Edward Story; Jason Rawkins
Autres avocats clés:
Xuyang Zhu
Les références
‘The practice is very well organised. We have found that despite working across multiple countries, the team has been fantastic in making the transition across countries seem seamless.’
‘Xuyang Zhu is a fantastic lawyer, I cant recommend her highly enough. She always communicates in a very clear way, gives great direction on legal issues and is always proactive in finding solutions to potential issues.’
Principaux clients
Vinted
Beauty Pie
Gong Cha
Shaneel Group, Shaneel Enterprises Limited
Ruggable
The Topps Company, Inc.
Ferrero
LDH La Doria (multi brands including John West Tuna)
Principaux dossiers
- Advised long-standing client Vinted, Europe’s largest online C2C platform dedicated to second-hand fashion, on its Series F round financing.
- Advised Gong cha on expanding its brand licensing across Europe.
- Advised the first luxury beauty product buyer’s club, Beauty Pie, on a $100m Series B funding round.
Browne Jacobson LLP
Browne Jacobson LLP is noted for its ‘exceptional service levels’ and the team is known for its multidisciplinary and cross-office approach. Areas of strength include handling influencer agreements, sponsorship agreements, supply chain issues and brand strategies. The practice is collectively led by real estate specialists Caroline Green and Sarah Parkinson, as well as Roland Gray who joined the practice from Dentons in November 2021 to lead the retail, consumer and logistics sector group. Additional arrivals include Cat Driscoll and Ragene Raithatha joining from DWF, who advise on commercial issues and construction mandates respectively.
Responsables de la pratique:
Caroline Green; Sarah Parkinson; Roland Gray
Autres avocats clés:
Suki Tonks; Cat Driscoll; Ragene Raithatha
Les références
‘The team is at the heart of the practice, you get the sense that everyone who you come into contact with throughout the organisation cares and wants to be the best class.’
‘Service levels are exceptional, the connections made are lasting and genuine, processes are simplified and clear, ranging from fee structures, billing and project work. Technology and methods of streamlining communication have been embraced which benefits both sides.’
‘Suki Tonks – excellent communicator, clear, challenges, gives solid advice and is our first port of call. Her dedication to delivering for our business is second to none, she goes the extra mile every time. I can honestly say, I’ve never worked with such a fantastic professional.’
Principaux clients
Louis Vuitton
Christian Dior
Walgreens Boots Alliance (“Boots”)
Vision Express
Halfords
Paperchase
Floris
John Smedley
Hillarys Blinds
Not On The High Street
JD Sports
DPD
PureGym
Principaux dossiers
- Acted for private equity house, LDC on the sale of Addo Foods, which includes some of the UK’s leading brands such as Pork Farms and Wall’s.
- Acted for Iconic on its retainer for all commercial and IP legal work including advising Iconic London on a product placement and sponsorship agreement with a US television production company and managing Iconic London’s international trade mark portfolio and third party oppositions.
- Acted for Chesterfield Borough Council on the strategic acquisition of The Pavements Shopping Centre in Chesterfield from investment company vendors.
Charles Russell Speechlys LLP
Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has expertise in an array of matters including advertising, marketing and branding issues, sponsorships, brand protection work, influencer agreements, e-commerce mandates and occupier matters. Jason Saiban‘s practice focus lies within commercial matters, and places particular attention on commercial contracting within the retail and leisure sector, while Edward Craig is the go-to name for luxury retail brands, and Michael Powner is renowned for his employment expertise and counts Nike as a key client; the trio jointly lead the practice.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jason Saiban; Edward Craig; Michael Powner
Les références
‘The team have a real depth of knowledge of the retail industry and are very commercial and efficient. Always readily available and quick response times.’
‘Jason Saiban has offered fantastic support to the business. Their advice is clear and practical.’
‘Jason Saiban has always been very responsive, approachable and a great sounding board.’
Principaux clients
Nike
Stonegate Pub Company Limited
Converse
Caffè Nero
Farfetch
Rapha Racing
Al Tayer Group
Itsu
Value Retail
H&M (Hennes & Mauritz)
Wahaca
Cadbury
HelloFresh
Honest Burgers
Brasserie Blanc
Australian Manuka Honey Association
Fiat Chrysler
Perfect Moment
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Nike across the full range of practice areas including brand marketing, digital transformation projects, technology contracts, sponsorship, sports marketing, advertising, e-commerce, regulatory, privacy and data protection, litigation, employment and real estate.
- Advised Value Retail on strategic projects and business critical advice.
- Advised Farfetch and used an AI contract review platform to identify the impact of and amendments required as a result of Brexit.
Clifford Chance LLP
The team at Clifford Chance LLP supports its clients holistically, advising on M&A, competition matters and risk management work. Practice head David Pudge specialises in both domestic and cross-border M&A, public takeovers, stock exchange matters and general corporate advice; his clients include large corporates in the retail and finance sector such as the French Connection Group. Duad Khan has relocated to the Abu Dhabi office.
Responsables de la pratique:
David Pudge
Principaux clients
French Connection plc
THG plc
Amazon
Frasers Group plc
The Coca-Cola Company
Amazon
Mondelez International
DuluxGroup
The trustees of the Wm Morrison Supermarkets plc pension schemes
Principaux dossiers
- Advised CD&R on its £9.95bn acquisition of Wm Morrisons Supermarkets plc.
- Advised DuluxGroup on the acquisition of the entire issued share capital of Cromology from Wendel and the management team of Cromology for €1.28bn.
K&L Gates LLP
K&L Gates LLP‘s practice focus spans across IP, commercial, corporate, finance and real estate mandates with notable expertise in competition matters. The group’s client roster is particularly focused on luxury, electronics and consumer goods brands; key examples include Nike, Gucci and Ralph Lauren. The team is led by IP expert Arthur Artinian, fashion and luxury sector specialist Catherine Adam, who also handles logistics matters; and Jennifer Marsh, who advises on UK and EU competition law.
Responsables de la pratique:
Arthur Artinian; Catherine Adam; Jennifer Marsh
Principaux clients
Nike
Coty
Gucci
TripAdvisor
Furla
General Mills (Yoplait, Haagen-Dazs, Cheerios, Green Giant)
Luxottica Group (Ray-Ban, Oakley, Persol)
Ralph Lauren
Cardtronics
Tateossian
Ping Europe Limited
SharkNinja
CaaStle
Cannondale
Principaux dossiers
- Represented Nike in a global trade mark dispute against Puma in relation to the FOOTWARE trade mark, which includes opposition, invalidity and court proceedings in the UK, EU, US, Korea, Japan and Australia.
- Advised Coty on the global launch of the Kylie Skin and Kylie Cosmetics businesses.
Lewis Silkin
Lewis Silkin‘s practice is best known for handling brand management work, franchising issues, portfolio management mandates and strategic commercial and technology contracts. Julia Poulter has particular experience in advising retail and leisure clients on real estate matters; she often oversees landlord and tenant work, real estate acquisitions and disposals, and development work. Managing associate Anna Sella specialises in employment law and is well regarded for her advice on atypical work arrangements, pay queries regarding tipping and wage deductions, restructurings and grievances. The pair co-lead the practice.
Responsables de la pratique:
Les références
‘The team is pragmatic, commercial, responsive and generally great. In addition to that, their client care is great and even their support on a personal level is amazing.’
‘Always listening to our needs as the client with clear non-jargon legal advice. Very agile and fast turnaround, bringing the right experts into the team as and when required.’
Principaux clients
M&S
ASOS
SuperDry
Liberty Retail
Harvey Nichols &Co Ltd
Airwair International Limited (Dr. Martens)
Bacardi
Swedish Match
Unilever
Britvic
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Lush on its distribution arrangement with ASOS which launched a partnership with Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics to distribute Lush products across the globe.
- Advised Swedish Match on its outsourced e-commerce relationship with The Hut Group in 2021.
Squire Patton Boggs
Squire Patton Boggs acts for a range of well-known retailers including Holland & Barrett, Charlotte Tilbury, Claire’s Accessories and Selfridges, and is sought out for its expertise in employment matters, high-value IT projects, real estate work and restructuring issues. Matthew Lewis and Carlton Daniel jointly lead the practice. Lewis is well regarded for his employment expertise and often handles matters concerning pay negotiations and strike action. Daniel’s practice focuses on contentious and non-contentious IP matters; he is also the co-lead of the firm's advertising, media and brands industry group.
Responsables de la pratique:
Matthew Lewis; Carlton Daniel
Autres avocats clés:
Andrew Stones
Les références
‘Very well informed and collaborative team. Take time to understand our business and then ensure they give us the appropriate advice. Constantly stay updated with whats new and relevant and take time to ensure we are made aware.’
‘Andrew Stones – continues to provide high-level support and ensures we get the best possible service.’
Principaux clients
AS Watson (Superdrug, Perfume Shop and Savers)
Billabong International Limited
Cancer Research UK
C. & J. Clark International Limited t/a Clarks
CK Acquisitions Limited t/a Cath Kidston
Charlotte Tilbury
Claire’s Accessories UK Limited
The Cooperative Group
Eataly Retail UK Limited
Holland & Barrett Limited
One Stop Stores Limited
Richemont (includes Cartier, Chloé, Dunhill, Montblanc, Van Cleef & Arpels)
Ryman Limited
Selfridges
Signet Group Limited
Studio Retail Group plc
Tesco Stores Ltd
Threadology London Ltd
Whittard
WM Morrison Supermarkets
Principaux dossiers
- Advised WM Morrison Supermarkets plc on the acquisition by International Seafoods Limited of the entire issued share capital of Falfish (Holdings) Limited.
- Acted for Tesco in a significant employment law claim.
TLT
TLT ‘s retail team works with household name clients such as WH Smith, Iceland and Pets at Home, handling a range of corporate and contentious matters, as well as property, intellectual property, employment and other commercial issues. Commercial head Perran Jervis leads the team from the firm’s Bristol base, working in tandem with a multidisciplinary group of lawyers spread across Manchester, London and the national firm’s other offices.
Responsables de la pratique:
Perran Jervis
Autres avocats clés:
Emma Flower; Liz Cotton
Les références
‘A good variety of individual lawyers with different strengths, who combine to provide capabilities to deal with litigation of all kinds.’
‘Emma Flower – a good strategic mind, able to steer a client around difficulties before they become troublesome.’
Principaux clients
boohoo Group plc
The Co-op
Sainsbury’s Supermarkets Ltd
WH Smith plc
Iceland Foods
Superdry plc
Pets at Home
JD Sports
Kingfisher plc
Beiersdorf (brands including Nivea and Elastoplast)
Purepay Retail – owner of Bonmarche, Edinburgh Woollen Mill and Ponden Home
Principaux dossiers
- Acted for online fashion retailer boohoo in relation to its purchase of the leading retail brands Burton, Dorothy Perkins and Wallis from the joint administrators of the Arcadia retail group.
- Advised Sainsburys with the preparation and negotiation of a valuable and strategically important agreement for the supply and sale of third-party retailer gift cards across Sainsbury’s estate and related merchandising services with a global distributor of gift cards.
- Acted for WH Smith in the renewal of its lease in the Westfield Shopping Centre at White City under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954.
Travers Smith LLP
Travers Smith LLP‘s growing client portfolio consists of both online and high street retailers, in addition to private equity houses and investors active within the retail sector. The team is well-equipped to advise clients on the full spectrum of retail and consumer matters, with recent work including advising on corporate mandates, restructuring issues and financing issues. The practice is led by Adrian West, who is a member of the firm’s corporate and ESG groups and acts for investment banks, corporate issues and management teams.
Responsables de la pratique:
Adrian West
Autres avocats clés:
Dan Reavill; Edward Smith; Louisa Chambers
Les références
‘Excellent knowledge and pragmatic and commercial advice. They are also extremely responsive and this is exactly what you need from your law firm when you are under time pressures.’
‘The team at Travers has provided advice which is second to none. Their sector experience means that their advice is tailored but also practical.’
‘Clear CVA specialism, excellent capabilities in retail CVAs in particular.’
Principaux clients
Auction Technology Group
Management of Dreams
Marks Electrical
McColl’s Retail Group
Autotrader Group
Liberum
Peel Hunt
Caffe Nero
Harding Brothers
Dune Group
Virgin Active
Livingbridge
Bridgepoint
S.A Brain & Company
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Auction Technology Group on its £600m Main Market IPO.
- Advised Virgin Active on its successfully sanctioned restructuring plan.
- Advised McColl’s on its restructuring and sale of business to Morrisons.
Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP
Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP has a sizeable team with expertise across the full range of retail and trading mandates; its clients consist of retail landlords and consumer brands such as New Look, In The Style, H&M and Carpetright. Gavin Matthews heads up the team from Southampton and has over 30 years’ worth of experience handling retail and consumer matters; specific strengths include assisting with advertising, pricing and sponsorship credit matters. Ben Butler is noted for his extensive corporate expertise, and retail employment work is overseen by specialist Christina Tolvas-Vincent. Nikki Powell was promoted to the partnership.
Responsables de la pratique:
Gavin Matthews
Autres avocats clés:
Ben Butler; Christina Tolvas-Vincent; Nikki Powell
Les références
‘Have many in-house specialists/experts which are all coordinated seamlessly via the lead corporate partner and managing associate to deliver an exceptional service to the end user.’
‘Ben Butler – extremely pragmatic, with a can to attitude. Is always prepared to offer both options and his considered view/opinion – which is very helpful when acting at pace in a complex environment.’
‘Christina Tolvas-Vincent is pragmatic and responsive and always provides good counsel in the broadest sense.’
Principaux clients
H&M Group
The Southern Co-Operative Limited
Ann Summers
Naked Wines Plc and Majestic Wine Warehouses Limited
Specsavers
Post Office
New Look
ME+EM Limited
Carpetright
Signet Trading Limited
In The Style
Clyde & Co
Clyde & Co takes a multidisciplinary approach, enabling the team to advise its retail and consumer clients across the full range of areas including assisting with construction, dispute resolution and data protection matters. Retail lettings expert Annabelle Redman leads the practice alongside Laura Oliver, who advises clients such as B&Q on real estate mandates. Francesca McGrath is noted for her management of various shopping centres owned by investor clients.
Responsables de la pratique:
Annabelle Redman; Laura Oliver
Autres avocats clés:
Francesca McGrath
Les références
‘They understand our needs and deliver deals quickly.’
‘Francesca McGrath is excellent.’
Principaux clients
Signal
Kingfisher
B&Q
Five Guys
Screwfix
Currys
Joe & The Juice
Smiggle
Crew Clothing
Chick’N
Loro Piana
Regatta
Principaux dossiers
- Acted for Signal Capital Partners on its entry to the UK shopping centre market in deals comprising four shopping centres with an aggregate value of £27.2m.
- Acted for Kingfisher plc on a pre-let agreement in relation to its new London headquarters at Paddington Square at an annual rent of £2m+.
- Acted for B&Q Limited in relation to a significant re-gear project affecting 77 leases representing an annual saving of between £7m and £9.5m, a 15-20% of aggregate rental liability.
DWF
DWF's consumer sector team works with a range of household name clients, advising on issues ranging from health and safety and regulatory compliance to employment and commercial matters. Dominic Watkins leads the team, working with clients and markets head Hilary Ross. Naveen Gupta specialises in retail property.
Responsables de la pratique:
Dominic Watkins
Autres avocats clés:
Hilary Ross; Naveen Gupta; Ben Cooke
Les références
‘A team with real depth of understanding of the retail and consumer sector – first class amongst law firms.’
‘Hilary Ross and Dominic Watkins are true stars in their field – responsive, dynamic and they listen. Which means they provide useful and incisive work, providing real value to their clients.’
Principaux clients
Wm Morrisons Supermarkets
Lidl
Pepsico
The Adidas Group
Homebase Group Ltd
Marks and Spencer
Costa Ltd
Pepkor Europe Ltd
KP Snacks
Currys
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Missguided in relation to the substantial funding provided by Alteri.
- Persuaded regulators to drop five prosecutions against Morrisons for selling food after its use by date.
- Advising Lidl, many drinks manufacturers and a global online retailer on their compliance with Deposit Return Scheme regulations.
Fox Williams LLP
The team at Fox Williams LLP primarily focuses on advising clients within the fashion industry. The practice is led by both Stephen Sidkin and Rhys Griffiths. Sidkin specialises in the termination of supply chain agreements, while Griffiths advises clients on compliance issues relating to the sale of travel services in Europe.
Responsables de la pratique:
Stephen Sidkin; Rhys Griffiths
Les références
‘Team have excellent knowledge in technology company related matters. They are experts at dealing with issues surrounding e-commerce and terms of service related issues.’
‘There is an immense amount of knowledge in the practice both in relation to past experience and of the current trading environment. The business is proactive in sharing legal changes and the possible impact on business and therefore their clients.’
‘The team is thorough, knowledgeable and delivers in a timely manner on all work.’
Principaux clients
Connexity Inc
Fidel Limited
Graziani srl
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Connexity Inc. on its international merchant agreement for online shopping.
- Advised Fidel on its strategic partner agreements with Visa.
- Advised Graziani on a supply agreement with a leading British multinational consumer goods company.
Freeths LLP
Freeths LLP utilises its cross-office approach to advise retailers on technology matters and sustainable practices that support business transformation. The team is led by Philippa Dempster, who has expertise in outsourcing mandates, international and domestic franchising work, supply chain agreements, and marketing and e-commerce matters.
Responsables de la pratique:
Philippa Dempster
Les références
‘Excellency in communication.’
‘The team understand our business and culture therefore providing both pragmatic and tailored support.’
‘Team is well placed to advise on a wide range of commercial contracts. We have received good solid commercial advice in desired timescales. Thorough reporting and tailored to our specific needs. Very friendly and cooperative team with colleagues happy to pick up and cover at short notice when necessary.’
Principaux clients
Aldi
Self-Portrait
TALA
Lyle & Scott
JOSEPH
PVH
Scotch Corner Designer Village
Euro Garages
Travis Perkins Group
Wickes
Carlsberg Marston’s Limited
Paul Smith
Shoe Zone PLC
Samworth Brothers Group
Alumier Labs UK Limited
The Gym King (Holdings) Limited
McArthurGlen UK Limited
William Hill
Hotel Chocolat
Korres International/Korres Natural Products
NCR
HelloFresh UK
Principaux dossiers
- Represented Aldi in the highly publicised claim by M&S that Aldi’s Cuthbert the Caterpillar cake infringed on trade marks relating to M&S’ Colin the Caterpillar cake, or that it amounted to passing off.
- Advised Self-Portrait on its acquisition of the iconic luxury dress brand Roland Mouret.
- Acted on behalf of PVH in negotiating contracts with Heathrow Airport and various suppliers of hardware, software and operational support in setting up a new retail vending concept for Calvin Klein underwear and apparel.
Harbottle & Lewis LLP
Harbottle & Lewis LLP has a full-service practice and its team has industry knowledge within an array of areas including brand management work, commercial contracts, technology mandates, reputation management issues and employment matters. Sandi Simons and Melanie Benson co-lead the team, which also fields Emma Wright and Rupam Dave, who joined the practice from Deloitte LLP in March 2022.
Responsables de la pratique:
Sandi Simons; Melanie Benson
Autres avocats clés:
Emma Wright; Rupam Dave
Principaux clients
Victoria Beckham Limited
Antler
Harrods Limited
Beauty Outlet Limited
MOB Kitchen
Astrid & Miyu
Wolford London Limited
De Beers UK Limited
SimiHaze
Diageo
Robinson Webster (Holdings) Limited (t/a Jigsaw)
Principaux dossiers
- Advised venture capital business Antler on its lead investment into luxury mystery box platform Heat.
- Advised Kyra on its commercial partnerships with major fashion and lifestyle retailers, branded content deals and arrangements with high-profile influencer talent and partnerships and brand deals.
- Advised Mob Kitchen on its commercial partnerships and branded content deals with various high-profile retail brands.