Retail and consumer in London

Addleshaw Goddard

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.

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:

Anna Elliott

Autres avocats clés:

Katie Vickery; Dolf Darnton; Richard May

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

Google

Facebook

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:

Julia Poulter; Anna Sella

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.