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The Legal 500 Hall of Fame Icon The Legal 500 Hall of Fame highlights individuals who have received constant praise by their clients for continued excellence. The Hall of Fame highlights, to clients, the law firm partners who are at the pinnacle of the profession. In the United Kingdon, the criteria for entry is to have been recognised by The Legal 500 as one of the elite leading lawyers for eight years. These partners are highlighted below and throughout the editorial.
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United Kingdom > London > Corporate and commercial > Commercial contracts > Law firm and leading lawyer rankings

Editorial

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Index of tables

  1. Commercial contracts
  2. Leading individuals: Hall of Fame
  3. Leading individuals
  4. Next Generation Partners
  5. Rising stars

Next Generation Partners

  1. 1

Rising stars

  1. 1

Addleshaw Goddard's practice covers a range of areas, from contractual agreements and IT to payment systems and data protection. The firm has a particular focus on the retail and consumer, financial services, industrial, and digital sectors. IT and outsourcing specialist Michael Lowry leads a team that provides notable expertise in intellectual property and competition law, acting for large companies and public sector bodies in the UK and overseas. Key names in the department are Jonathan Davey, who has particular experience in retail and consumer businesses and loyalty arrangements, and Damon Rosamond-Lanzetta, who advises on outsourcing and related transactions in the financial services, retail and telecoms areas. Rosamond-Lanzetta led the advice to Cyprus Cooperative Bank (CCB), a Cypriot state-owned bank, on a joint venture with Altamira Asset Management relating to the servicing of CCB's non-performing loan book.

Practice head(s):Michael Lowry

Other key lawyers:Jonathan Davey; Damon Rosamond-Lanzetta

Testimonials

'An exceptional team, offering a genuine depth of expertise across a very wide spectrum of commercial disciplines'

'They have a wealth of industry knowledge and experience which helps them to find constructive, innovative solutions to our problems'

'They have proved themselves capable of working at great pace, delivering high-quality advice and drafting to limited timescales'

'Mike Lowry is a standout performer - he provides fantastic advice and genuine commerciality'

'Damon Rosamond-Lanzetta is a go-to person for a wide range of FTSE 100 clients'

'Jonathan Davey provides great support on commercial contracts; he's available and responsive, but most importantly he speaks the client's language and is pragmatic, which allows for wrapping things up efficiently with customers and suppliers'

Key Clients

Bruntwood Group of companies

TJX Europe

Lumesse Limited

Cyprus Cooperative Bank Ltd

Nectar Loyalty Limited

Department for Transport

West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA)

Celtic Football Club

Heart of Midlothian Football Club

FNZ (UK) Limited

Travelodge Hotels Limited

MedAccess Guarantee Ltd

Work highlights

  • Advised Bruntwood on its 50/50 partnership with Legal & General Capital to create the UK’s largest property platform, dedicated to driving science and technology growth in regional cities.
  • Providing ad hoc support toTJX Europe on a variety of commercial contract and trading issues.
  • Project-managed the roll-out and negotiation of international HR software platform provider Lumesse Limited's data processor agreements with its customer base, which were required as a result of changes to data protection laws.
  • Advising the Department for Transport on the new rail franchise which will combine the current InterCity West Coast services with the development and introduction of High Speed 2 services.
  • Acted for Nectar in its agreement for the issue and redemption of Nectar points at Esso fuel stations.

Specialising in complex, high-value contracts, Baker McKenzie has experience of advising on alternative fee arrangements, agency distributions and consumer practice, among other areas. The practice has global reach; examples of its international work include advising technology giant Google on numerous consumer contractual matters. Duncan Reid-Thomas advises on and negotiates a wide range of commercial agreements, with notable expertise in the healthcare sector. Key names in his team are Steve Holmes, who particularly focuses on the technology, communications and media industries, and Sue McLean, who advises clients on technology, sourcing and digital media business models, as well as the legal issues relating to the implementation of new technologies. Also recommended are experienced counsels Helen Brown and Julia Hemmings and senior associate Nick Wloch, who is ‘smart, commercial and focused on providing excellent support'.

Practice head(s):Duncan Reid-Thomas

Other key lawyers:Sue McLean; Steve Holmes; Helen Brown; Julia Hemmings; Nick Wloch

Testimonials

'The firm are extremely responsive and able to pull together and continue to resource a team for a complex set of transactions, with changing requirements, across various countries in the tightest of timeframes'

'Excellent experience and knowledgebase to help find solutions to new challenges'

'Willing to integrate with the clients' practices strategically'

'Nick Wloch helped navigate through an extremely complex matter with much-needed calmness and assurance'

'Constant availability to help, based on a broad range of expertise available across jurisdictions'

'Prompt responsiveness'

Key Clients

L'Oréal

Google

Enterprise

Tapestry

Work highlights

  • Advising L'Oréal on numerous commercial issues.
  • Advising leading US car hire company Enterprise on its EU rental terms.
  • Advising global luxury goods company Tapestry on redrafting EU sale agreements.
  • Advising a global pharmaceutical company on supply agreements.
  • Advising a world leader in artificial intelligence research on a number of commercial and IT issues.

FIRMS IN THE SPOTLIGHT

RPC

RPC's specialist Commercial Contracts team handles all types of commercial agreements across multiple industries, from the largest outsourcing and other projects (including joint ventures) to smaller, bespoke contracts for entrepreneurial start-ups. This gives us a vast amount of experience across different contracting models, and has helped us build a track record of delivering the most effective commercial solutions. This experience has gained us a market-leading reputation and helped us attract some of the world's biggest international brands and tech companies, and some of the best lawyers in the field.

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Bird & Bird LLP has particular expertise in technology contracts involving blockchain and AI. The international firm is also experienced in collaborative ventures with a cross-border element. Simon Shooter leads the practice and acted for EY on the establishment of a joint venture with Guardtime, one of the world's leading blockchain solutions companies, which impacts the $30bn global marine hull insurance industry. Also notable in the team are Mark Leach, who is an expert in the fields of outsourcing and major commercial projects; Lucy England, who is experienced in advice on both strategic business projects and routine commercial agreements for a range of clients, including airlines, leasing companies and original equipment manufacturers; and infrastructure sector specialist Stuart Cairns. Associate Elizabeth Dunn is recommended for her commercial work in the gambling and sports sectors.

Practice head(s):Simon Shooter

Other key lawyers:Mark Leach; Elizabeth Dunn; Lucy England; Stuart Cairns

Testimonials

'The team is at the cutting edge of IT law'

Key Clients

Isavia

easyJet

Costa

Migeca – Ca'puccino

Gamesys

Sky Bet

eZono AG

Black Sheep Coffee

Chevron

KFC

Stagecoach

HBO

Steve Angello/Size Records

Parity

Motorola Solutions UK Limited

EE Limited

Six Nations

Arsenal FC

Orlen

Work highlights

  • Acting as easyJet's trusted legal adviser and advising on a range of matters across a number of disciplines, from commercial contracts to consumer and competition law issues, as well as data protection.

  • Assisting eZono on a number of alliance and collaboration agreements with international partners for the licensing and integration of its guiding procedural ultrasound technology into partner products.
  • Advising Gamesys on its relationships with various game providers, including NetEnt and Scientific.
  • Advised Sky Bet, one of the leading sports betting brands in the UK, on the five-year renewal of its headline naming rights sponsorship agreement with the English Football League.
  • Advising HBO on its licensing and consultancy agreements in relation to the creation and production of a "Game of Thrones" studio tour and park.

The ‘innovative, pragmatic and technically excellent’ CMS is best known for its sector focus, experience in documenting new, complex business models, and advice on re-structuring commercial contracts. The firm also provides global capabilities, notably in the sports and gambling, retail and logistics, financial services, and life sciences and healthcare sectors. Iain Stansfield leads a strong practice that includes outsourcing expert Ian Stevens; technology specialist Paul Silver; and Sarah Hanson, who focuses on cross-border commercial contracts and outsourcing in the life sciences and consumer products sectors. Also recommended are the 'technically brilliant and talented' Dominic Dryden, who specialises in technology and sourcing, and 'seasoned commercial lawyer' Matthew Bennett, who has particular expertise in contentious negotiations. The team advised NHS National Services Scotland on the Scottish Wide Area Network. Elle Todd left for Reed Smith LLP in 2019.

Practice head(s):Iain Stansfield

Other key lawyers:Paul Silver; Ian Stevens; Sarah Hanson; Dominic Dryden; Matthew Bennett

Testimonials

'Experts in technology and outsourcing'

'Friendly, fun and a pleasure to work with'

'Their legal skills are of course fantastic, but it is their commercial experience and their understanding of how businesses work which is key'

Key Clients

BP

Unilever

Tesco

BAE Systems

CityFibre

Deliveroo

Legal & General

Work highlights

  • Working closely with UCL and advising on all aspects of its master services agreement with 2U UK for the provision of courses to students all over the world through an online platform.
  • Led the negotiations on behalf of SIS for the provision of various satellite, fibre and other connectivity services and outside broadcast services.
  • Advised LGIM, the biggest fund manager in the UK, on the commissioning of a new cloud-based platform which will enable LGIM to expand its client base.
  • Assisted Delaware North with its 20-year hospitality and operations management agreement with Wasps rugby club and the Ricoh Arena.
  • Advised BT on a long-term extension and expansion of its overall content cross-supply deal with Sky.

Known for its UK-wide and global resources, Dentons acts for big corporates as well as disruptive businesses entering the market, particularly in the area of new technologies. The firm has experience in advising on complex commercial matters in a range of sectors, including retail, energy, financial services and manufacturing. TMT specialist Martin Fanning advises on sourcing matters, commercial transactions, mobile projects, and large-scale IT and business process procurements. He co-leads the practice with Andy Lucas, who has expertise in large public sector outsourcing projects, as well as cyber security and cryptology. Their team includes Babette Märzheuser-Wood, who focuses on franchise and distribution agreements and IP-driven joint ventures; Scott Singer, whose work covers the breadth of commercial contracts; Henrietta Baker, who advises on a diverse range of commercial arrangements; and associate Sarah Lima, who has experience in major technology and telecoms projects in the financial services and public sectors.

Practice head(s):Andy Lucas; Martin Fanning

Other key lawyers:Babette Märzheuser-Wood; Sarah Lima; Scott Singer; Henrietta Baker

Testimonials

'The team is approachable, friendly and more than happy to take the time to talk through questions and issues' 

'They make themselves available at short notice and provide invaluable support'

'Great business sense and innovative legal solutions'

'Dedicated and with a drive to find a win-win solution'

'A great team who are familiar with the challenges of working in house so are able to provide timely and pragmatic legal advice'

'Martin Fanning understands the business and the commercial drivers for a project's success'

'Martin Fanning has great communication - he is clear, concise and to the point'

'The team has extensive experience and can provide excellent advice with industry expertise'

Key Clients

HM Government

Upfield

John Lewis Partnership

Sainsbury's

Jaguar Land Rover

Home Office

The Restaurant Group plc

Ministry of Defence

EDF Energy

The Edrington Group plc

Airwair Doc Martens

LG

Tesla

Raytheon

UltraElectronics

Argos

Ministry of Defence

SkyKick

KKR

Work highlights

  • Advised John Lewis on a new car insurance offering for its customers.
  • Advising Jaguar Land Rover on its high-value global outsourcing arrangements for a number of business functions.
  • Advising Upfield on putting in place its international distribution network programme.
  • Advised Virgin Atlantic (VAA) on its launch of a new Virgin loyalty programme.
  • Advising Salt Exchange on setting up and operating an electronic trading system based on blockchain technology.

DLA Piper specialises in complex and multi-jurisdictional commercial transactions, particularly in the retail, consumer products, manufacturing, hospitality and consumer finance sectors. In addition, the firm provides regulatory expertise alongside its transactional commercial contract practice. International commercial and franchise transactions expert Iain Bowler leads the team, which includes Mark Dewar, who has experience advising on national and international supply chain contracts, as well as commercial transactions involving consumer and consumer finance businesses. Also notable is senior associate Michiko Jo, who combines commercial transactional expertise with regulatory advice.

Practice head(s):Iain Bowler

Other key lawyers:Mark Dewar; Michiko Jo

Testimonials

'A very responsive, commercial and experienced commercial team'

'The firm provides a seamless and effective multi-jurisdictional service'

'Iain Bowler is extremely knowledgeable, commercial, very approachable and responsive'

Key Clients

Starwood Capital

Merseytravel

Government Digital Service (GDS)

Unilever Asia Private Limited

IAG/British Airways

Work highlights

  • Advising Starwood on its acquisition of seven Hilton-branded hotels from Park Hotels and flipping these from management to franchise on completion.
  • Advising Merseytravel, the executive function of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, in relation to a ground-breaking digital railway project to provide internet connectivity for train to shore train management systems communications and passenger Wi-Fi access.
  • Advising Government Digital Service (GDS) on its GOV.UK Pay platform, which allows government entities to take and process payments.
  • Advising Unilever in relation to its 20-year framework and services contract with The Wood Foundation Africa (TWFA) and international institutions including the East Africa Trade Initiative (EATI) to govern a long-term commercial arrangement, including the provision of services to local farmers to increase their farming knowledge and capabilities.
  • Assisting IAG on the outsourcing of its security operations team to TCS.

The broad commercial practice at Fieldfisher is known for its deep bench and expertise in the technology area. Tech expert Robert Shooter specialises in large-scale procurements and commercial collaborations in both the private and public sectors. He co-leads the team with David Bond, who advises clients across a range of industry sectors, including retail, hotels and leisure, education, and food and beverages. The group is advising Premier League football club Liverpool FC on its suite of fan-facing systems.

Practice head(s):Robert Shooter; David Bond

Testimonials

'The team is able to understand both the commercial and legal issues in a short time frame'

'The team provides hands-on support during contract negotiations with potential suppliers'

'Good common-sense lawyers who are easy to do business with'

'David Bond is one of the top franchise lawyers in the UK' 

Key Clients

eBay/Gumtree

Netflix

Starbucks

Liverpool FC

Hamleys

easyHotel

H&M

Olympus

Viacom

Boparan Restaurants (Giraffe, Ed's Easy Diner, Harry Ramsden's, Slim Chickens)

Work highlights

  • Advising Viacom on several commercial matters in respect of its various brands.
  • Advising longstanding client Olympus on a broad range of technology and commercial matters.
  • Advising eBay on various commercial agreements and business critical agreements.
  • Advising Godiva on a key transaction concerning global data hosting services.
  • Advising on Freeview on various matters including the development of an app and Freeview Play – a live TV and on-demand service.

The sourcing and commercial expertise of Pinsent Masons LLP particularly focuses on the technology, manufacturing and energy sectors, with a speciality in bet-the-business transactions. Simon Colvin, known for his TMT work, leads the team, which includes advanced manufacturing and technology expert David Isaac. Also notable are Natalie Trainor, who is experienced in advising on large and complex IT, technology and business process transformation projects, and associate Ben Gardner, who acts for large corporates and disruptive start-ups on a range of commercial arrangements.

Practice head(s):Simon Colvin

Other key lawyers:David Isaac; Natalie Trainor; Ben Gardner

Key Clients

Transport For London (TfL)

Starship Technologies

KCOM Group Plc

The Water Regulation Services Authority (OFWAT)

Bonmarché Holdings Plc

Sage Global Services

Work highlights

  • Advising TfL on its Surface Intelligent Transport System (SITS) programme.
  • Advising Starship Technologies on the applicability of existing transport legislation to the use of autonomous delivery robots to fulfill last mile deliveries of retail and food goods in the UK.
  • Advising KCOM Group Plc on concluding an exit arrangement and de-scoped agreement with BT in respect of Hull telecoms services.
  • Advised OFWAT on its procurement (via a public procurement) for the appointment of an alternative delivery models partner.
  • Advising Bonmarché in relation to the procurement, re-procurement and exit of many of its IT contracts as part of the client's transformation programme.

The 'very commercial and client-focused' RPC advises on agreements across various industries, from the largest outsourcings to bespoke contracts for start-ups. The firm’s expertise includes technology, IP, marketing, licensing and sponsorship. Practice head Oliver Bray is an 'exceptional partner' and specialises in commercial law, particularly commercial contracts, data protection, and regulatory and content issues. Notable in his team of 'great all-round commercial lawyers' are Mark Crichard, who leads the firm's technology and outsourcing practice; Charles Buckworth, who is a specialist IT, outsourcing and data lawyer; and senior associate Alyson Lloyd, who focuses on supply chain, advertising and sponsorship matters. Commercial, outsourcing and technology specialist Paul Joukador joined in 2018 from Hogan Lovells International LLP and in 2019 commercial partner Simon Edwards arrived from Shoosmiths LLP. Senior associate Andrew Crystal left in 2018 to go in-house at Amazon Web Services.

Practice head(s):Oliver Bray

Other key lawyers:Alyson Lloyd; Charles Buckworth; Mark Crichard; Paul Joukador; Simon Edwards

Testimonials

'Competent, responsive, organised and well-coordinated'

'The team has depth of expertise in multiple fields'

'The firm has particular strength in advertising and marketing'

'The strength of the team is the tremendous client engagement that it has at all levels, from partner to trainee'

'RPC really care about the quality of the work that they produce'

'RPC's advice is always practical and geared towards a solution'

'Oliver Bray leads an exceptional team that is a genuine pleasure to work with'

'Oliver Bray is just a great lawyer and lovely to work with'.

'It's rare to see true commercial contracts experience that also combines in-depth knowledge of associated areas such as data protection'

Key Clients

House of Fraser

Dreams Limited

Crabtree & Evelyn

Pizza Express

Google

Sports Direct

Coca-Cola European Partners

Tommy Hilfiger

News UK (The Times and The Sun)

Facebook

Work highlights

  • Advising Facebook (both in the US and the UK) on business-critical commercial arrangements.
  • Advising LINK Scheme (the UK payment system which connects almost all of the UK's 70,000 cash machines and provides consumers with universal access to their cash), which has been mandated by the Payment Systems Regulator to carry out a tender of its IT infrastructure services.
  • Assisting the Coca-Cola European Partners (CCEP) commercial legal team with complex contractual arrangements as well as day-to-day contract overflow work.
  • Providing regular commercial advice to Google on a wide range of matters.
  • Providing day-to-day advice to Pizza Express on its full commercial contract portfolio and brand management issues, an arrangement which has now been running for a number of years.

Travers Smith LLP specialises in cross-border advice on a range of commercial contract issues, notably in highly regulated sectors including financial services, energy, retail and leisure. Dan Reavill leads the practice and can call on the expertise of Tom Purton, who is experienced in strategic alliances and IP work. Also recommended are Ben Chivers, whose areas of expertise include Brexit, joint ventures and outsourcing, and senior associate Sonny Mallet, who focuses on complex commercial arrangements, strategic partnership arrangements, outsourcing and joint ventures. The team advised Gist on numerous matters relating to its £3.5bn, 12-year outsourcing agreement with Marks & Spencer Group.

Practice head(s):Dan Reavill

Other key lawyers:Tom Purton; Ben Chivers; Sonny Mallet

Testimonials

'A very strong team who have in-depth knowledge of the financial services sector and apply a sound commercial approach'

'The team navigate and facilitate complex commercial deals within tight timelines and readily provide innovative commercial solutions to overcome negotiation hurdles' 

'Good knowledge of the subject area and strong partner and associate assistance'

'Deep understanding of the sector and a team which is readily available to respond quickly to requests for advice'

'Ben Chivers and Sonny Mallet apply a sound commercial approach to complex arrangements in a personable manner. They are strong negotiators and have the ability to think on their feet to propose commercial solutions to ensure the deal gets done in the best interests of their client'

Key Clients

Pension Protection Fund

Gist

Trainline

Pret (formerly Pret a Manger)

Caffé Nero

Camellia Plc

Bannatyne Fitness

McColl's Retail Group

Reed & Mackay

Shepherd Neame

Work highlights

  • Advised Premier Rugby Limited on a very high-profile and potentially transformative new partnership with CVC Capital Partners.
  • Advised BUUK Infrastructure on a number of complex long-term utility sector deals, including the supply of smart meters to Ovo Energy.
  • Advised new client Rouse Analytics on the launch of its groundbreaking Rental Metrics Benchmark Service in the UK and Europe.
  • Advised new client Burger King on several major transactions, including a major outsourcing covering most of its 500 UK outlets.
  • Advised new client and international retail giant Poundland and its European parent company, Pepkor Europe, on the renegotiation of sourcing agreements with their agent based in Hong Kong.

Acting on a range of commercial contracts, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP is particularly known for its global outsourcing focus. The firm has specialists in the major European, US, Asian and Middle Eastern jurisdictions, with notable expertise in the retail and hotels sectors, as well as experience in the media, sports and real estate areas. Richard Shaw leads the practice and his specialisms include advising on product distribution, manufacturing, franchising, and payment and transaction processing arrangements. He can call on the expertise of Marcus Pearl, who has particular experience in outsourcing, cross-border deals and in-bound US transactions. Also notable in the team is senior associate Melissa Manski, who works with clients across multiple sectors including utilities, financial services and retail. The department advised the Port of London Authority on strategic partnering arrangements with Cemex UK to improve ship unloading infrastructure at Cemex’s Northfleet terminal.

Practice head(s):Richard Shaw

Other key lawyers:Melissa Manski; Marcus Pearl

Key Clients

Apto (formerly Shift Payments)

BAFTA

Bank of America

BodyShopBids, Inc. (trading as “Snapsheet")

British Telecommunications plc

Comcarde

Diligenta Limited

DriveNow

DXC Technology Inc.

eBay Inc.

EXL Service

Get Living London

Work highlights

  • Advised KellyDeli on its arrangements with Waitrose and Sainsbury’s, and on its new concession agreement with Asda under which Sushi Daily kiosks will be operated within Asda supermarkets.
  • Reviewed, drafted and negotiated a broad range of commercial agreements for United Perfumes, including its licence agreements with fragrance brands.
  • Advised ThreeSixty Group on the agreement for its London pop-up store as part of the “Selfridges Rocks Christmas" shop, and on the drafting and negotiation of its agreement for a permanent flagship store at Selfridges in London and other locations in the UK.
  • Advised Get Living (the joint venture between Delancey, Qatari Diar, Oxford Properties and APG) on the acquisition of more than 800 build to rent apartments at Manchester's Middlewood Locks.
  • Advising DriveNow on its commercial partnership arrangements and consumer law issues, including advising on the impact of Brexit on its business operations.

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP provides expertise across key sectors including financial services, payments, energy, technology, health and sport. The firm acts for private and public sector clients and has experience advising on Brexit-related commercial work locally and internationally. In addition, the team is known for strategic transactional work. UK practice head Richard Prowse specialises in advising private and public sector clients on a range of commercial agreements, notably complex outsourcings and concession agreements. Alison Brearey leads the London group and has particular experience in international and global contracting. In a recent highlight, the department advised American Express on all aspects of its corporate co-brand agreement with British Airways, including drafting and negotiating the contract terms.

Practice head(s):Richard Prowse; Alison Brearey

Key Clients

Rolls-Royce

Sherwin-Williams

Smiths Group Plc

Hammerson Plc

Severn Trent Plc

Mitchells & Butlers

National Grid Plc

ITSO

John Lewis Plc

Arm

Honda Motor Europe

Avis Budget EMEA

American Express

INEOS

Superdry plc

Lucozade Ribena Suntory

Taco Bell

Work highlights

  • Acting as the primary external legal adviser to Rolls-Royce in relation to its complex, multi-jurisdictional arrangements for the sourcing of maintenance, repair and overhaul services for large civil aero engines.
  • Advised INEOS in relation to a new toll manufacturing agreement for INEOS to supply ethoxylation capacity to Wilmar from across the INEOS network.
  • Advising Avis on its commercial and employment matters.
  • Assisting Hammerson with the re-tender and consolidation of its marketing contracts, including the re-tender of each of its advertising, public relations and events contracts for its shopping centre portfolio.
  • Assisting ITSO with agreeing a series of interconnected deals to embed its UK-wide groundbreaking inter-operable smart-ticketing solution onto mobile.

Hogan Lovells International LLP provides international reach and is experienced in outsourcings, strategic alliances, marketing contracts and IT contracts. Peter Watts is a key name for the firm in this area.

Other key lawyers:Peter Watts

Latham & Watkins has particular expertise in cross-border mandates, notably in the technology and fintech sectors. Andrew Moyle advises clients ranging from traditional financial institutions to new technology incumbents. He co-leads the practice with Gail Crawford, who focuses on technology, intellectual property and commercial law. Their team includes the ‘outstanding’ Fiona Maclean, who specialises in blockchain and data, and Christian McDermott, who is experienced in complex technology transactions, large-scale outsourcings and payment infrastructure matters. The group acted for Credit Suisse in its investment and collaborative venture with fintech provider Privé to develop a multi-jurisdictional wealth management platform.

Practice head(s):Andrew Moyle; Gail Crawford

Other key lawyers:Christian McDermott; Fiona Maclean

Testimonials

'Latham & Watkins' team is pragmatic and constructive, whilst bringing an excellent subject knowledge of the areas in question'

'The contract created was robust and has been effective ever since'

'The team provides deep subject knowledge and advice at the intersection of points of law with commercial decisions'

'The team communicates excellently and is able to move forward at pace, whilst being diligent across a complex contract'

'Fiona Maclean provided very able day-to-day leadership'

Key Clients

Credit Suisse Equity Derivatives

OpenX

Zimmer Biomet Pte Ltd

Caisse de Dépôt et Placement du Québec

Lumendi Ltd. (UK)

Transferwise

Work highlights

  • Acting for OpenX, a programmatic advertising technology company, in relation to its outsourcing collaboration with Google Cloud Platform.
  • Advising Zimmer Biomet on the renegotiation of its global outsourcing agreement with Genpact.
  • Acting for Caisse de Dépôt et Placement du Québec (CPDQ) in relation to a significant outsourcing deal.
  • Acting for Lumendi, an emerging medical devices company, in relation to the drafting of a suite of commercial contracts.
  • Advising TransferWise on a matter involving designing and building a contracting structure for use in TransferWise’s growing business-to-business offering.

The international Norton Rose Fulbright practice has industry expertise ranging from energy, mining and infrastructure to finance, healthcare and life sciences. As well as providing a technology consulting practice, the firm has experience in niche areas, including insurance distribution agreements. The ‘extremely knowledgeable’ Michael (Mike) Knapper focuses on commercial contracts, particularly those involving intellectual property, data and technology. He co-leads the practice with M&A and securities expert Raj Karia. Notable in their team is James Russell, who specialises in outsourcing, information technology and intellectual property law. The group is advising Esso on its exclusive fuel sponsorship agreement with Nectar. Ian Lopez left for Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP in 2018.

Practice head(s):Raj Karia; Michael (Mike) Knapper

Other key lawyers:James Russell

Testimonials

The team have excellent knowledge of their area and are very commercially focused, making them easy to work with

'Incredibly quick to understand the key drivers and challenges in complex transactions and find suitable solutions'

'Able to get up to speed, collect input and turn around documents at an amazing pace while still catching all relevant details and providing business-minded advice'

'Mike Knapper is responsive and to the point in his advice'

'James Russell provides an excellent mix of technical ability and commercial understanding'

Key Clients

Accolade Wines

Barclays

Carlsberg

Coca Cola Hellenic

De Beers

Exxon / Esso

Harlequins Football Club

HSBC

IMI plc

McLaren Applied Technologies

Ocado

Pfizer

Prudential

Vakt Global

Work highlights

  • Advising VAKT Global Limited on a first-of-its-kind blockchain-enabled post-trade management platform.
  • Advising a bank on its global outsourcing of technology and mainframe support functions.
  • Advising Coca Cola Hellenic in connection with an exclusive distribution agreement relating to alcohol beverage products across Eastern Europe (and, in particular, Ukraine).
  • Advising a global bank on a transformative partnering agreement between a multinational credit card and payment services provider and SAP.
  • Advising Anglo American’s diamond unit - De Beers - in respect of a ground-breaking blockchain platform which will provide a first-of-its-kind digital register for diamonds to ensure authenticity, traceability and accountability across the diamond value chain.

The ‘top-notch’ Slaughter and May advises on strategic, high-value, high-risk and complex commercial contracts. The practice includes specialists in competition, corporate and real estate law, and the multi-disciplinary team is ‘responsive, knowledgeable and commercial, and works in a very collaborative fashion’. Duncan Blaikie advises clients on the creation and negotiation of a range of commercial contracts across the areas of IP, technology, pharmaceuticals, sports and financial services. He co-leads the practice with Richard Todd, who specialises in major international and domestic projects. They can call on the expertise of IP/IT expert Rob Sumroy, who focuses on technology and outsourcing; the 'very capable and competent' Susie Middlemiss, who acts in litigation and commercial contract matters related to IP; and David Ives, who is particularly notable in the retail and technology sectors. The group is advising GSK on the divestment of Horlicks and other consumer healthcare nutrition brands to Unilever and the merger of GSK Consumer Healthcare Limited with Hindustan Unilever Limited.

Practice head(s):Duncan Blaikie; Richard Todd

Other key lawyers:David Ives; Susie Middlemiss; Rob Sumroy

Testimonials

'Slaughter and May have a unique and consistent culture - highly professional and fast, whilst being relaxed and approachable'

'Top-quality and immediate advice on all angles of the practice'

'Not only is the advice of a very high quality, it also is delivered on the spot if need be'

'Contract drafting is very high quality, very speedy and pragmatic'

'Senior associates and partners are all available when they need to be'

'The team are very approachable, practical and proactive when it comes to finding solutions'

'Duncan Blaikie is commercially astute, and quick to understand the client's position and requirements'

Key Clients

Marks & Spencer

Workspace Group

Credit Karma

innogy SE

TaylorMade Golf Company

GlaxoSmithKline

Salvation Army

John Lewis/Waitrose

Tottenham Hotspur FC

Vodafone

Thunderhead

TSB

Baillie Gifford

Nomura Research Institute

RSA Insurance Group plc

Burberry plc

Work highlights

  • Advised Marks & Spencer on the launch of Founders Factory Retail, a joint venture with Founders Factory focused on investing in and growing start-ups.
  • Advising Workspace on its procurement arrangements in respect of a range of goods and services supporting its customer offering.
  • Advised Credit Karma, one of the world’s highest-valued financial technology companies, on its first move into Europe with an agreement to acquire TransUnion’s Noddle business.
  • Advised innogy SE on the transitional and long-term servicing aspects of the aborted combination of Npower and SSE’s domestic retail operations in the UK.
  • Advised TaylorMade on its establishment of an exclusive distribution network across the Middle East and South Africa.

Allen & Overy LLP is known for advising on high-value commercial projects, corporate transactions and joint ventures, and multi-jurisdictional projects. The practice is co-led by Jim Ford, Jane Finlayson-Brown, Tom Levine and Nigel Parker. Their team advised Lloyds Banking Group on its strategic partnership with Schroders in the wealth, investment and financial planning sector.

Practice head(s):Jim Ford; Jane Finlayson-Brown; Tom Levine; Nigel Parker

Key Clients

Lloyds Banking Group

News UK

Co-operative Group

GlaxoSmithKline

Prudential

IHS

Deutsche Bank

Marks and Spencer

Virgin Active

Work highlights

  • Advising Prudential on the IT and data aspects of its £12bn sale of a UK annuity portfolio to Rothesay Life.
  • Advising the lenders on the financing and commercial contracts of a global constellation developed by WorldVu Satellites Ltd (OneWeb) and comprising up to 800 low-orbiting satellites.
  • Advising Marks and Spencer on the IP and IT aspects of its £750m food delivery joint venture with Ocado, the UK’s leading pure play digital grocer.
  • Advising Deutsche Bank on the separation issues and transactional services aspects of its disposal of its global corporate services business to Vistra Group.
  • Acting for IHS in respect of its acquisition and leaseback of the tower portfolio of mobile operation Zain in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The 'extremely responsive, nimble and creative' Ashurst focuses on commercial contracts within the digital economy, specialising in compliant data use and exploiting new enabling technology and connectivity. The firm is also experienced in complex procurement and outsourcing transactions. The 'brilliant and practical' Nick Elverston co-leads the team with the 'very astute' Christopher Bates, who has expertise in strategic projects and procurements for the medium to long term and is increasingly active in advising on partnering agreements and relationships with third parties as a means to further their digital agendas. The team advised Prudential in a project to retender two substantial outsourced service areas - facilities management and catering - each through competitive tender. Both procurements were undertaken in respect of Prudential's entire property portfolio across the UK.

Practice head(s):Nick Elverston; Christopher Bates

Testimonials

'Ashurst has a deep understanding of telecoms in Europe and Africa and, importantly, of the market context in the region' 

Ashurst is familiar with the technical aspects of projects, coupled with a pragmatic approach to negotiating and concluding transactions with the minimum of fuss'

Ashurst works extremely hard, goes through all the details and provides robust support'

'The team is considerate throughout'

'The team has excellent communication skills, quickly establishes the client's requirements and is able to deliver output in a timely and accurate manner'

'The Ashurst team is both very responsive and very knowledgeable'

'Their assistance was invaluable to negotiate a significantly complex contract in the required timeframes'

'Nick Elverston can quickly cut through complex issues to deliver excellent outcomes. He is very well known in the industry and deserves the reverence shown to him by all'

'Christopher Bates is smart and commercial. He provides hands-on commercial advice that is solution focused to deliver what the business needs in an efficient manner'

'Christopher Bates is particularly excellent at reading a room and managing difficult interactions'

'Christopher Bates takes time to understand the business. He is able to translate technical industry detail into legal documentation efficiently and accurately'

Key Clients

Prudential PLC

Virgin Media

State Street Bank & Trust Co

Sopra Steria Limited

DXC Technology

Frontera Consulting Inc

Wm Morrison Supermarkets plc

BP plc

China General Nuclear Power Corporation

McLaren Automotive

National Express Group

Babcock International Group PLC

Goldman Sachs

BAI Communications

Work highlights

  • Advised Wm Morrison Supermarkets plc on the initial negotiation of, and subsequent amendments to, its contract with DHL for the underlying logistics services to facilitate Morrisons' wholesale supply business.
  • Advised Arla in relation to the drafting and negotiating of supply agreements and processing agreements in connection with the acquisition from Yeo Valley of its non-yoghurt organic milk products businesses.

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP provides commercial support for clients ranging from international brands and specialist public tech companies to financial institutions and tech solution providers. The firm has regional and international reach, including in Switzerland and Dubai. Jason Saiban leads the practice and focuses on the sport, retail and technology sectors. He can call on the expertise of Megan Paul, who specialises in complex outsourcing transactions in domestic and global markets. Also notable is associate Caroline Swain, who works closely with retail clients. The team advises Nike on commercial contracts, including sponsorship, sports marketing, regulatory and data protection issues.

Practice head(s):Jason Saiban

Other key lawyers:Megan Paul; Caroline Swain

Testimonials

'The team have great sector knowledge coupled with excellent and, where appropriate, challenging advice'

'They are always on hand and respond in a timely manner with a fee structure that works for everyone'

'Good attention to detail and good availability'

'They work well as a team'

'Jason Saiban has exceptional knowledge and is always focused on the client'

'Megan Paul stands out. She brings energy and dynamism alongside great competence. A good problem solver who can see things from all sides'

Key Clients

Nike

Westfield

International Tennis Federation

wagamama

Morgan Stanley

Harrods

Caffe Nero

ITV

Ascot Racecourse

Farfetch

1Spatial Plc

Swiss Post Solutions

Work highlights

  • Advising wagamama's purchasing and supply chain, IT and marketing team on day-to-day projects and higher-value, strategic matters.
  • Acted for the International Tennis Federation on its 25-year, $3bn project with sports investment group Kosmos to revamp the Davis Cup.
  • Represented Premier League side Leicester City FC in a range of commercial matters, including advising on supplier contracts and construction of facilities.
  • Advised Value Retail on some key strategic commercial projects relating to Bicester Village and Europe-wide “villages”.
  • Advising SPS on commercial contracts across its business, including strategic outsourcing projects, client terms of business, government procurement contracts and data protection.

The 'competent and creative' practice at Clifford Chance LLP focuses on TMT but also has expertise in antitrust, private equity and real estate law. The firm is experienced in major outsourcing transactions, ranging from employment advice to regulatory advice. The 'exceptional' André Duminy leads the team and specialises in complex commercial transactions, particularly related to technology. He acted for Schroders on all aspects of its outsourcing negotiations with fintech company Instinct for the provision of a range of finance-related services provided via common platforms.

Practice head(s):André Duminy

Testimonials

'There is a very cohesive nature about the team and they all seem to get along very well' 

'The team operates seamlessly and flexes well when there are constraints on individuals'

'Deep legal expertise bundled with solid understanding of the applicable business and technology context provide for a clear competitive edge and a robust basis for success'

'André Duminy's negotiating skills are second to none as is his commitment to his clients' cause'

'André Duminy is an excellent communicator with his clients and is extremely personable.

'André Duminy's knowledge of the industry and excellent negotiation and communication skills, combined with first-class legal knowledge, make him a unique individual' 

'André Duminy is in a league of his own for complex IT contracting'

Key Clients

Fujitsu

The Absolut Company

Coca-Cola

Citi

Iberdrola

Clydesdale Bank

WiZink Bank

Permira

HQLAx

Sage Housing Limited

Royal Bank of Canada

AB InBev

Schroders

EVRY

WEX

Co-Op Bank

Work highlights

  • Advising Sage Housing Limited on the negotiation of a management contract appointing Places for People to manage and maintain the client's rented social housing stock across England.
  • Advising RBC Investor Services, part of the Royal Bank of Canada, as service recipient under a long-term outsourcing services agreement and associated transitional service agreement with global fund distribution expert MFEX to provide fund distribution services in Europe.
  • Advised Citi on its collaboration agreement with Computershare to launch the Proxymity platform.
  • Acted for Infracapital in relation to its purchase from SSE plc of 50% of SSE Telecoms – a telecoms operator providing fibre and telecoms networks and services in the UK.
  • Advised ING Group on a global partnership with AXA to provide insurance products and related services through a central digital insurance platform.

Gowling WLG's broad practice includes advising on routine business contracts as well as large-scale and innovative outsourcing transactions. Sale of goods expert David Lowe leads the team and has experience negotiating and drafting contracts for a range of clients on national and international supply chain and procurement agreements. He also has notable experience advising clients on Brexit-related issues.

Practice head(s):David Lowe

Known for its IT expertise, Herbert Smith Freehills LLP combines a deep bench of commercial contracts practitioners with technology sector specialists. The firm is well regarded for complex commercial and business transformation projects, as well as global cross-sector procurements and outsourcings. The team also has an experienced commercial disputes practice. Nick Pantlin specialises in advising clients on complex and business-critical outsourcing, notably in the technology area. He co-leads the team with Stephen Rayfield, who has extensive experience advising central government bodies on major procurement exercises. Their group is advising Google's technical infrastructure legal team on all its commercial requirements.

Practice head(s):Nick Pantlin; Stephen Rayfield

Testimonials

'A knowledgeable IT practice with expertise in outsourcing'

'Strong levels of resource are available for larger and time-critical projects'

'The team provides excellent advice, guidance and outputs. They are always available to give straightforward input to drafting the contract'

'They are all extremely knowledgeable about the law but also capable of being commercial in the positions they take'

'They are an extremely friendly and personable team who all seem to enjoy working together'

'Nick Pantlin is an asset in supporting business-wide projects, often at short notice'

'Nick Pantlin is always enthusiastic and high energy.  He seems to really care about his team and his clients'

Key Clients

Google

IBM

Ministry of Defence

Transport for London

BP

Lloyds Banking Group

ClearBank

TSB

Telefonica

UBS

British American Tobacco

VEON

Work highlights

  • Advised ClearBank on its new commercial collaboration with financial services challenger organisation Tide.
  • Acting as a key adviser to TSB after the bank was spun out of Lloyds and acquired by its current parent organisation, Banco de Sabadell.
  • Advised The Big Exchange on commercial arrangements in relation to the establishment of a new fintech platform, supported in part by a blockchain system.
  • Advised Huozhi, a fintech social enterprise start-up, in relation to a secure aid funding solution that Huozhi has developed to ensure that beneficiaries in conflict zones can receive aid money from NGOs and government donors in a way that minimises or eliminates risk of interference.

Kemp Little LLP is known for its expertise in regulated sectors, but represents clients in a range of areas, including advertising, TMT, life sciences, healthcare and consumer goods. The firm has a strong supplier and customer-side client base, as well as acting on matters arising from international transactions. IT and IP specialist Paul Hinton has particular expertise in advising financial services companies on complex IT projects. He leads the team with Paul O’Hare, who is head of the outsourcing practice and advises on complex and transformational technology projects. Also recommended is outsourcing and technology expert Andrew Joint.

Practice head(s):Paul Hinton; Paul O’Hare

Other key lawyers:Andrew Joint

Testimonials

'They are highly skilled IT lawyers with a number who understand the underlying technology'

'Great expertise in contract, deal and corporate law with a particularly strong knowledgebase in e-commerce and travel'

'Kemp Little act like internal counsel, in that they are actively aware of the business' status, pressures and needs'

'They are contactable at any time'

'Andrew Joint is open, collaborative and client focused. He takes a reasonable approach to negotiations which creates a good atmosphere in which to strike the best deal for both parties'

Key Clients

Philip Morris International

ParkBee Media

Flit Technologies (Karhoo)

Seven League Limited

Farfetch

Brainbox Digital Limited

Deloitte

Principality Building Society

Prudential (UK) Limited

Reckitt Benckiser

Dealogic

Sony Europe

Target Group Limited

InLink Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised InLink, a joint venture between Primesight and Intersection, on its strategic outsourcing with BT.
  • Advised Sony Europe in High Court proceedings against Adecco.
  • Advised Google on several commercial contract matters.
  • Advised Deloitte on the establishment of its "Re:Store" proposition, including the drafting and negotiation of various contractual agreements.
  • Advised Farfetch on its contractual arrangements for advertising, logistics and support services, payment systems, customer relationship management technologies, cloud hosting and email marketing.

Linklaters LLP has expertise in the advisory and contentious aspects of large sourcing contracts. The firm is also experienced in helping clients transform their business through digitisation, advising on the application of new technologies in different ways and the use of data. Richard Cumbley leads the practice and is known for handling complex commercial outsourcing projects. He can call on the expertise of Marly Didizian, who advises on complex service procurement contracts, multi-jurisdictional outsourcings and large-scale commercial agreements, with particular specialisms in business process outsourcing and supply chain management. Also notable is TMT and IP expert Georgina Kon, who has experience in outsourcing and advises customers and suppliers in the public and private sectors on innovative and critical matters.

Practice head(s):Richard Cumbley

Other key lawyers:Marly Didizian; Georgina Kon

Testimonials

'Consistently bright and focused lawyers who get engaged in the issues and work with you to find a solution'

Key Clients

J Sainsbury plc

Nestle UK Ltd

Morgan Stanley Infrastructure

Vodafone

Citibank N.A.

Work highlights

  • Advising J Sainsbury plc on its outsourcing and cooperation agreements with Walmart Inc.
  • Advised Nestle on its "lighthouse" digital warehouse transformation project.
  • Advised MSI on its successful bid to become the provider of network infrastructure services to the mobile operator of Portugal Telecom (MEO).
  • Advised Vodafone in relation to its strategic collaboration with IBM, which will allow the two companies to jointly offer clients the latest hybrid cloud, AI, 5G, and software defined networking capabilities.

Outsourcing specialist Milbank has experience in global IT and business process agreements, as well as advising major financial services and pharmaceutical companies on global outsourcing projects. The practice is also known for its work in public sector projects. Laurence Jacobs leads the team and has expertise in the outsourcing and technology fields. Also notable is the firm's head of data privacy, Joel Harrison.

Practice head(s):Laurence Jacobs

Other key lawyers:Joel Harrison

Key Clients

Astellas

AstraZeneca

Barclays

Northern Trust

DXC

GroupM

Direct Line Group

Kantar Media

Standard Chartered Bank

TCS

WPP

QBE

Work highlights

  • Advising a leading international company on a series of global IT outsourcing agreements, including various disputes and renegotiations involving current transactions.
  • Advising a financial services provider on the negotiation of agreements for the provision of investment operations outsourcing, as well as on agreements for a range of innovative services.
  • Advising a pharmaceutical company on a major global IT outsourcing project with multiple suppliers.
  • Advising a leading research, data and insight company on a suite of IT and business process outsourcing projects.
  • Advising an international advertising media company on a series of outsourcing transactions for the provision of IT infrastructure.

Osborne Clarke LLP is known for its cross-border commercial contracts expertise, with a focus on the transport, energy and utilities sectors, notably large-scale infrastructure projects. The firm also acts for clients on commercial contract issues across a range of sectors, including energy, TMT, life sciences, transport and logistics. John Buyers is a commercial outsourcing and information technology specialist. He co-leads the team with Lara Burch, who has experience advising on UK and cross-border commercial transactions, particularly in the transport and energy sectors. Transport and automotive expert Edward Barratt arrived from Burges Salmon LLP in 2019; Nina Cummins left to take up an in-house position at the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority in 2018.

Practice head(s):John Buyers; Lara Burch

Other key lawyers:Edward Barratt

Testimonials

'Exceptional partners lead the team' 

'Hugely knowledgeable across a number of sectors, but, more importantly, very pragmatic and solution focused rather than getting bogged down in the weeds'

'Very effective at deploying the right level of resource to the right tasks, whilst retaining that all-important partner touch throughout a project'

Key Clients

Homebase

Western Power Distribution

Centrica Plc

Eversholt Rail Group

Danone

Electrocomponents Plc

First Solar

Clarivate Analytics

Thoughtworks Ltd

LeasePlan

Vanguard Healthcare Solutions

Gama Healthcare

Work highlights

  • Acting as sole adviser to Western Power Distribution, the UK’s largest distribution network operator, in relation to all of its procurement contracts.
  • Assisted LeasePlan with reviewing the contractual framework for the up to £900m purchase, leasing and maintenance of 30,000 delivery vehicles to Amazon’s UK local delivery network.
  • Advising Centrica on a suite of commercial contracts to support its innovative Local Energy Market trial in Cornwall.
  • Advised Thoughtworks on the negotiation of a complex agile development agreement with a consortium of oil majors, investment banks and equity houses for the production of a unique platform to digitise the global commodities trading industry using blockchain technology.
  • Advising NewCold Cooperatief on all its key customer contracts, each in the region of £100m.

Specialising in the retail, energy and financial services sectors, TLT has experience in advising on a range of issues, including long-term strategic outsourcing programmes, collaboration agreements, commercial joint ventures, data protection and public procurement. Perran Jervis leads the practice and has particular expertise in outsourcing, distribution and supply agreements. He also advises on business partnering and commercial joint ventures. His team was strengthened by the 2018 arrivals of competition and regulatory lawyer Stuart Murray from BT Consumer and Tim Waller, who focuses on fintech and regulatory technology, from Paysafe.

Practice head(s):Perran Jervis

Other key lawyers:Stuart Murray; Tim Waller

Testimonials

'TLT provides a very high standard of service and is very knowledgeable of the business and the retail sector'

'They have good strength in depth and provide cost-effective commercial legal advice'

'Perran Jervis is an outstanding commercial lawyer'

Key Clients

Sainsbury's Plc (including Argos and Habitat)

JD Sports plc

WHSmith plc

Imperial Brands plc

BGL Group plc (including the Comparethemarket.com business)

Greene King plc

Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime

Teleperformance

French Connection plc

Elavon Financial Services

Zopa

Close Brothers

Lucozade Ribena Suntory

Bohoo.com

Learndirect

Crown Commercial Service (Tier 1)

HM Treasury

Work highlights

  • Advised Sainsbury's on a strategically important and price-sensitive commercial collaboration with the owner of a national chain of petrol station forecourt convenience stores.
  • Acted on behalf of WHSmith and assisted with the negotiation and completion of an agreement for the operation of further Post Office franchises across the WHSmith estate.
  • Advised new client Teleperformance on its framework agreement for contact centre services with KIWI.
  • Advised Pretty Little Thing (PLT) on its five-year engagement with Clipper Logistics plc, whereby Clipper will provide warehousing and logistics services to PLT at a fulfilment centre just outside Sheffield.

Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP's commercial practice is made up of five sub-groups: commercial contracts; competition; data and privacy; IP; and technology. The UK-wide and multi-disciplinary team is experienced in a range of sectors including transport, financial services, retail, manufacturing and chemicals. Practice head Paula Bartlett specialises in commercial contract law, with extensive experience of advising on and negotiating complex contractual arrangements. Also notable is Rachel Scott, who has particular expertise advising on high-value and complex projects in the public and private sectors. She led the advice on the procurement of a supplier to provide a centralised management service for Network Rail's fleet of up to 8,000 road vehicles. Mark Gleeson joined in 2019 from Browne Jacobson LLP and boosts the firm’s technology expertise.

Practice head(s):Paula Bartlett

Other key lawyers:Rachel Scott; Mark Gleeson

Testimonials

'Womble Bond Dickinson's London team give detailed, thoughtful data management advice in relation to Freedom of Information Act and GDPR compliance programmes, and also helpful guidance in relation to the improvement of procedures to reduce risk and improve efficiency overall'

'The London team work well with their regional team'

'The company's growth has afforded it expertise in new areas rather than diminishing the local benefits of the service'

Key Clients

Ministry of Justice

Post Office Limited

Immediate Media (BBC Magazines)

Network Rail

TSB Bank

Whitbread Group plc (including Costa)

Kingfisher plc (including B&Q and Screwfix)

AIG

New Look

Huntsman (Chemicals)

Work highlights

  • Advised Network Rail on the re-tendering of advertising concession rights at major stations.
  • Advised Brittany Ferries on a series of contracts with the Secretary of State for Transport that secure additional freight capacity as part of the UK government's planning for a no-deal Brexit.
  • Instructed by Places for People on a framework management agreement with a highly acquisitive, private equity-funded housing association.
  • Advising the Post Office on a business-critical procurement under the competitive dialogue procedure to appoint a systems integrator prime contractor with a banking sub-contractor for multiple services in relation to Post Office card accounts provided to benefit and pensions recipients.
  • Advising the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) on the Criminal Justice System Common Platform Programme, which is a collaborative initiative between the MoJ and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to establish a common platform and database for the administration of the criminal justice system from start to finish.

Acting for public and private sector clients, Burges Salmon LLP's expertise includes the rail, retail, education, healthcare and sport sectors. The firm is also advising on an increasing amount of commercial contracts work with a multi-jurisdictional element. Helen Scott-Lawler leads the practice and is particularly experienced in issues relating to retail, food and drink, and consumer-facing businesses. Her team is advising the Ministry of Defence on the procurement of Dreadnought and Astute class submarines. Sarah Kenshall joined as a legal director from Axiom in 2018; she specialises in technology, focusing on telecoms vendors, fintech and public sector IT projects. Timothy Deacon left for Keystone Law in 2019.

Practice head(s):Helen Scott-Lawler

Other key lawyers:Sarah Kenshall

Testimonials

'Very client focused and flexible'

'The team is highly knowledgeable'

'Helen Scott-Lawler is very professional and reliable'

Key Clients

John Lewis PLC and Waitrose

Oxford University

FirstGroup (TOC owner group) and its TOCs (Great Western Railway, South Western Railway, First TransPennine Express and Hull Trains)

Eurostar International Limited (trading as Eurostar)

Ministry of Defence

Coca Cola Hellenic

Yeo Valley

Fever-Tree

Gegenbauer

Waterstones

Work highlights

  • Advising the John Lewis Partnership, including leading grocery retailer Waitrose, on its most material commercial contracts, as one of only four UK firms acting for the partnership.
  • Advised Yeo Valley on a range of commercial contract matters, including its deal with Arla in 2018.
  • Advising Transport for Wales on its procurement of the next Wales and Borders Rail Service and Metro on behalf of the Welsh government.
  • Acted for Phillips 66 Limited on the acquisition of NJB Services Ltd, the owner and operator of a chain of petrol stations in the north of England.
  • Advised Welsh Water on its complex IT outsourcing incorporating the design and build of a new integrated customer contact centre and desktop platform.

HFW has an international network and broad sector expertise, including transport and logistics, aviation, technology, commodities and energy. As well as handling commercial contracts work, the firm specialises in niche areas, ranging from producing documentation for major port projects and dealing with outsourcing agreements for IT, to drafting freight management contracts for the international movement of goods for blue-chip retailers. The team is co-led by transactional commercial law expert Matthew Gore, who focuses on the ports, transport and logistics sectors; Craig Neame, who specialises in logistics; Anthony Woolich, who is head of the technology team and has experience in providing advice to hi-tech and industrial sector clients; and Alistair Mackie, who is known for his work relating to ports and terminals. Also notable is William MacLachlan, who was prompted to partner in 2019 and has particular experience in transactional shipping matters.

Practice head(s):Matthew Gore; Craig Neame; Anthony Woolich; Alistair Mackie

Other key lawyers:William MacLachlan

Key Clients

DHL

Kuwait Oil Company KSC

Marks & Spencer plc

Solent Stevedores

Trafigura

Unilever

ARINC Inc. (now part of Rockwell Collins)

DA-Desk

Gulf Agency Company (GAC)

Ineos Europe

Work highlights

  • Supporting Marks &Spencer with the contractual arrangements for its international supply chain.
  • Advising Solent Stevedores across a broad range of commercial legal matters.

The broad range of experience at Macfarlanes LLP covers the technology, life sciences, pharmaceuticals and hotels sectors, with particular expertise in outsourcing and complex transactional arrangements. The firm also acts for entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals. Malcolm Walton leads the practice and advises on complex carve-out and separation matters, and transitional arrangements, as well as on commercial arrangements relating to IP exploitation and EU laws on free movement and competition. The team's technology offering was strengthened by the 2018 arrival of Mike Rebeiro from Norton Rose Fulbright. In 2018 Rupert Casey left for Keystone Law and Jeremy Courtenay Stamp retired from the firm.

Practice head(s):Malcolm Walton

Other key lawyers:Mike Rebeiro

Key Clients

Dana Inc

Virgin

Merian Global Investors

Quilter Investors

Bank of New York Mellon

Legal & General

Vivo Energy

OCS Group

Winton Capital

Epiris

Appleby

Omnicom

Hayfin

Work highlights

  • Advising Dana Inc on the potential acquisition of GKN’s Driveline technology business.
  • Advising the Virgin Group on commercial contract arrangements concerning the launch of a new group-wide loyalty programme.
  • Advising Merian Global Investors and Quilter Investors on their contractual arrangements with Citibank for the outsourced provision by Citibank of all necessary back off fund accounting services and middle office services.
  • Advised BNY Mellon on the negotiation of two technology and software licensing agreements with a developer, each of which is bespoke and represents a significant step for the client’s development in this sector.
  • Advising Hermes Fund Managers on, and negotiating a transitional service agreement to implement, its separation from BT Pension Scheme Management, following a majority share acquisition in the client.

Mayer Brown International LLP specialises in complex and multi-jurisdictional outsourcing transactions for clients in areas including information technology, finance, human resources, procurement and telecoms. The firm is particularly experienced in handling domestic and international sourcing contracts in the financial services sectors. Mark Prinsley is head of the intellectual property and IT group, as well as the technology transactions practice. He leads the team with Andrew Stewart, who focuses on complex commercial transactions.

Practice head(s):Mark Prinsley; Andrew Stewart

Key Clients

HSBC

Thomson Reuters

BNY Mellon

Mitie

Deutsche Bank

CNA Hardy

The Kraft Heinz Company

Zurich Insurance Company Limited

AT&T

Nomura

Work highlights

  • Advising a financial institution on its strategic acquisition and implementation of Microsoft-provided cloud-based services across its global business.
  • Advised a financial services institution in relation to the outsourcing of data centre supply, management and support services under a framework agreement which allows the services to be rolled-out across the globe.
  • Advised HSBC on a project to sell and monetise a “Know Your Client” (KYC) software solution.

Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP is known for advising on multi-jurisdictional sourcing, with a distinctive practice that combines lawyers and sourcing consultants. The firm acts for a range of corporates, global suppliers, and e-commerce and social media platforms and developers. Rafi Azim-Khan, who heads the data privacy and cybersecurity practice in Europe, co-leads the team; his expertise includes advising on entry to new markets, data privacy, cybersecurity, regulatory and commercial matters. Fellow co-head Steven Farmer was promoted to partner in 2019 and focuses primarily on technology and financial services.

Practice head(s):Steven Farmer; Rafi Azim-Khan

Testimonials

'The team is experienced and practical' 

'They get things done in a timely fashion'

'Client relationship management is superb' 

'Knowledgeable partners and associates are always at hand and at short notice for calls and discussion' 

'The team has good knowledge of client sectors, it is cost effective and its delivery of service is always on time'

'Practical, hardworking, engaging'

'Great attention to focusing on client needs and also demonstrably agile in their work approach'

Key Clients

State Street Bank and Trust Company

Deutsche Bank AG

Stylehaul Inc

HM Electronics Inc

eGain Corporation

Infohealth Limited

BlueCrest

Upland Software Inc

Hanbury Strategy and Communications Limited

Work highlights

  • Assisted State Street Bank and Trust Company with a global service contract remediation project.
  • Assisted DMT Solutions (dba BlueCrest) with a range of commercial contracts following divestment.
  • Representing HM Electronics, Inc (HME) on a range of cross-border B2B agreements.
  • Advising eGain Corporation on numerous customer agreements, particularly those with a data privacy focus.
  • Advising Upland Software, Inc on a range of commercial contracts associated with various UK acquisitions during 2018.

Reed Smith LLP's broad practice covers a range of specialisms, including contractual joint ventures and collaborations, strategic alliances, procurement, logistics, outsourcing, technology and e-commerce. The multi-disciplinary team is led by Delphine Currie, who is co-chair of the firm’s global corporate group and has particular expertise in the real estate sector. Also notable is Charles Jurd, who specialises in complex commercial agreements, notably those with a cross-border element.

Practice head(s):Delphine Currie

Other key lawyers:Charles Jurd

Testimonials

'The team has a high level of expertise and knowledge'

'Charles Jurd knows the turbine sales contract very well, making sure there is alignment between the two contracts when implementing contractual wording - something that gives customers great comfort'

Shoosmiths LLP’s sector expertise includes retail, technology, sport and financial services. The firm also has particular experience acting for leading automotive manufacturers in the commercial contracts space. Practice head David Jackson specialises in complex technology-enabled outsourcing deals. Also notable is Joseph Stephenson, who has expertise in technology and sourcing transactions, with a focus on large-scale and complex IT projects. The group advised British American Tobacco in relation to its commercial agreements with Bargain Booze.

Practice head(s):David Jackson

Other key lawyers:Joseph Stephenson

Key Clients

Volkswagen Group

Weetabix

Three Mobile

The Law Society

Aramark Limited

Nissan

Soak.com

Peugeot Citroen

Helly Hansen

Mercedes Benz

Work highlights

  • Advised Aramark Limited on the re-negotiation of a key sub-contract with Skanska.
  • Advised Volkswagen Group UK on the major outsourcing of logistics and warehousing services to TNT/Federal Express.
  • Advised Thomas Cook Aircraft Engineering Limited on an agreement for goods and services with Fokker Services BV.
  • Advised new client Helly Hansen on a key sponsorship agreement relating to the America’s Cup.
  • Advising Cromwell Tools Limited in relation to the procurement of an outsourced provider of IT infrastructure services.

The tech and corporate-focused White & Case LLP specialises in transactional commercial and IP matters. The firm is also experienced in complex cross-border collaborations, particularly joint ventures and strategic alliances in the tech sector. Lindsey Canning has expertise in advising on complex commercial agreements. She leads the practice with Philip Trillmich, who is known for handling multi-jurisdictional transactional IP and technology matters. Their team was strengthened by the 2018 arrival of counsel Deborah Lincoln from Linklaters LLP, who has notable experience advising on IP/IT and data privacy matters, primarily related to corporate transactions.

Practice head(s):Lindsey Canning; Philip Trillmich

Other key lawyers:Deborah Lincoln

Testimonials

'White & Case is highly competent, technically excellent, honest, thorough and always approachable'

'From an engagement perspective, the team are reasonable and consistent in their approach'

'There are seldom any surprises and they always go the extra mile'

'The whole team has depth of experience'

'They show excellent commitment to the client'

Key Clients

Lightsource Renewable Energy Investments Limited

Interactive Advertising Bureau Europe

One-Pro Cycling Limited

PPF

State Street Bank and Trust Company

Work highlights

  • Represented Lightsource and its founders in connection with the formation of its "Lightsource BP" strategic solar power partnership with BP.
  • Assisting IAB with the terms and conditions applicable to IAB Europe’s Transparency and Consent Framework.
  • Advised global private equity investor PPF Group on its €2.8bn acquisition of Telenor's telecoms assets in Central and Eastern Europe.
  • Advising British UCI Continental cycling team One-Pro Cycling on a number of commercial contract negotiations, including amendments to its announced partnership with Aston Martin.
  • Advising a fintech investment firm in relation to a multi-party, collaborative project involving complex IP licensing provisions.

Combining ‘legal expertise with business understanding, common sense and a good dose of humour,’ Bates Wells advises on a range of commercial contract matters, specialising in data supply agreements and e-commerce advice, as well as cross-border issues. The 'knowledgeable, approachable and quick to solve complex issues' Richard Marke leads the team and is known as ‘an excellent lawyer, calm and collected when dealing with complicated matters'. Also notable is ‘invaluable’ associate Anna Przewoznik, who has expertise in commercial contracts, intellectual property, information technology and regulatory matters.

Practice head(s):Richard Marke

Other key lawyers:Anna Przewoznik

Testimonials

'The corporate and commercial team is very personal in a professional way'

'The team is familiar with the business they advise in and their approach is hands-on and prompt'

'They respond quickly and professionally with sound and practical advice'

'The attention to detail and the promptness of responses are outstanding'

'The associates are exceptional'

'You will get a fantastic high-quality service at a time span and rate that is kept well in sight'

'The speed at which the team turns around work is remarkable'

'The practice as a whole was able to handle all our legal requirements and the interdepartmental communication they have seems to be wonderfully set up'

'Responsive, flexible, commercial and the appropriate amount of risk adverse'

'The team put the client first and give practical advice on how to resolve an issue or dispute - sometimes that means not taking the legal route but taking instead a more commercial or hands-on approach to achieve the same outcome'

'Richard Marke is very creative in his advice. He is pleasant to work with and always very responsive. He is known for his international network'

'Anna Przewoznik is very detail focused but not at the exclusion of the bigger picture. She takes the time to understand the business, the contract requirements and the client's place in the wider machine and thus is able to tailor contracts'

Key Clients

118 Group

Nikon

Perkbox Limited

Thomson Local

Alight Solutions

Positec Power Tools

Mauser

Rail Europe

Merxin

Poliform

Work highlights

  • Advised Perkbox on its new private health insurance product.
  • Conducted a comprehensive review of customer engagement contracts for Tricor Secretaries Limited.
  • Advising Corporate Media Partners Ltd on a contract with a customer for the provision of its social media management and analytics services.
  • Advising Rosie Fortescue on contractual matters relating to her luxury jewellery brand.
  • Advising 118 Group on its data licensing customer agreements.

Cooley (UK) LLP has particular expertise in technology and data-related advice, including the outsourcing and procurement of technology, licensing arrangements and the distribution of digital content. Chris Coulter leads the practice and is a member of the firm’s technology transactions group. He specialises in advising clients on a range of technology, data, cyber security, contract and intellectual property issues.

Practice head(s):Chris Coulter

DAC Beachcroft LLP has particular experience in IT and technology transactions, notably commercial issues relating to the application of technology to areas such as financial services, healthcare and real estate. A key name for the firm in this area is Tim Ryan, who is head of the national TMT team and an experienced commercial lawyer. He advises across a variety of matters in technology, media and telecoms.

Other key lawyers:Tim Ryan

Farrer & Co has experience in dealing with high-value commercial contracts, ranging from joint ventures and supply and distribution agreements to agreements in highly regulated industries and cross-border deals. The firm has particular expertise in the media, arts and education sectors. 'Excellent' practice head Paul Jones specialises in public procurement and complex commercial contracts, including outsourcing, IT, infrastructure and technology projects.

Practice head(s):Paul Jones

Testimonials

'In-depth knowledge of their areas of particular expertise allied to a pragmatic approach'

'Farrer & Co's lawyers combine fabulous legal knowledge with real commerciality, common sense and sector-specific expertise'

'Paul Jones combines attentive drafting with an acute appreciation of client needs and expectations'

Key Clients

Bauer Media

Childs Farm

Yell

Gold Key Media

Brookfield Business Partners LP

UBM plc

UK Athletics

The National Gallery

Telegraph Media Limited

British Medical Journal (BMJ)

Work highlights

  • Advising a German manufacturer on the English law aspects of a range of high-value cross-border supply agreements.
  • Advising Bauer on commercial contracts across its brands in online publishing, radio and magazines, including IT and technology contracts, and paper supply and printing services.
  • Advising Yell on a range of significant commercial contract issues as it completes its transformation from a well-known print directory to a leading player in digital media.
  • Advising UK Athletics on the wide range of commercial contracts needed to stage the two-day blue riband Athletics World Cup at London Stadium.
  • Advising Gold Key Media on a key acquisition contract relating to the collation and distribution of a tailored content product for use with tablets and smartphones, and on its single biggest hotel distribution contract.

With experience drafting and advising on a range of commercial agreements, Fladgate LLP’s practice covers business-to-business contracts as well as the consumer-facing terms and conditions of supply and purchase contracts. The firm also provides general advisory services to clients on commercial issues. Eddie Powell leads the team and specialises in intellectual property, technology and commercial law. His department was strengthened by the arrival of Tim Wright from Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP in 2019, who has particular expertise in commercial, outsourcing and technology transactions across various sectors, including banking, insurance, healthcare and technology.

Practice head(s):Eddie Powell

Other key lawyers:Tim Wright

Testimonials

'They are a team that cares about what the client's business is'

'Tim Wright is an extremely knowledgeable and diligent partner with strong skills in working with in-house legal teams. He has a great knowledge of the procurement and supply chain area'

'They have the best interests of the client at heart in the short and long term'

'They are human and speak a language that non-legal people can understand'

Key Clients

Cutler & Gross Ltd

Platform 9 ¾ Retail Limited

Glorious Brands Ltd

Prolitec

WebJet Group (JacTravel, SunHotels, WebBeds)

Fore Fitness Limited trading as Easy Gym

Abbey Hotels

Valmet Automotive

Digital Cinema Media

Limelight Sports Ltd

MHA

Fly Victor

Neubourg Skin Care

Work highlights

  • Acted for Cutler & Gross on a number of matters.
  • Advised Platform 9 ¾ Retail Limited on all aspects of the installation of a new Harry Potter-themed concession at Gatwick Airport.
  • Acted for distributor Glorious Brands Limited on a number of deals.
  • Advised Prolitec on the successful negotiation and conclusion of a ground-breaking commercial deal with Aromatherapy Associates (AA), part of the Alliance-Boost Group.
  • Advised Australia-based WebJet on how to structure its contracts following its acquisition of longstanding client JacTravel.

Howard Kennedy LLP provides national and international expertise in the media, entertainment, technology, retail, leisure and real estate sectors. Robert Lands leads the team and has substantial experience drafting and negotiating commercial contracts, with a particular focus on the technology and creative industries.

Practice head(s):Robert Lands

Key Clients

Unison

The Tate

Everyman Cinema

Marriott Vacation Club (MVCI Europe Limited)

Pandora Jewellery

Bissel Homecare Inc

Pizza Hut  (Yum! III (UK) Ltd trading as Pizza Hut)

Antler Limited

Luxottica Retail UK Ltd (Sunglass Hut)

Euroffice

15 Gifts

KPMG

Work highlights

  • Advised RGS on catalogue licensing agreement with Getty Images, which has an archive of over 200 million assets.
  • Advising EcoWorld/Ballymore on the appointment and management contract for the Skypool Embassy Gardens with new restaurant Darby and celebrity chef Robin Gill, including the establishment of a private club for residents at Embassy Gardens.

K&L Gates LLP acts in a range of sectors, including the logistics, automotive, manufacturing, retail, technology, gambling and sports areas. As well as drafting a broad variety of agreements across these sectors, the practice provides Brexit-related advice and works closely with the IP/IT department on data protection issues. Catherine Adam leads the team and has particular expertise in retail, fashion and leisure.

Practice head(s):Catherine Adam

Key Clients

Lucozade Ribena Suntory

This Works Products Limited

Zulily

Molnlycke Healthcare

Sportech

Virgin Racing Limited

Hometrack Data Systems

Slalom Consulting

The Berkeley Partnership LLP

Lotto Network

Norbord

Allegheny Technologies

The unique structure of Keystone Law focuses on the individual specialities of the practitioners that make up the firm. In the area of commercial contracts, some key names in the team are the ‘immensely talented, intelligent and technically brilliant’ Jeremy Schrire, who specialises in commercial agreements and related competition and regulatory matters; Jimmy Desai, who has expertise in commercial contracts as well as internet and technology law, data protection and IP/IT in M&A transactions; commercial and corporate lawyer Jaan Larner, who particularly focuses on entrepreneurial activity; and the 'extremely knowledgeable' Rebecca Halford-Harrison, who is a well regarded IP, technology and disputes lawyer, notably in relation to IP law in the chemistry-based industries. Timothy Deacon joined from Burges Salmon LLP in 2019.

Other key lawyers:Jeremy Schrire; Jimmy Desai; Jaan Larner; Rebecca Halford-Harrison; Timothy Deacon

Testimonials

'They understand the competitive environment in which the client operates, and gear their advice toward real-world solutions' 

'Jeremy Schrire effortlessly blends technical excellence with creative and highly commercial advice. His immense experience and pragmatism, allied with his approachability, make him a true go-to'

'Jeremy Schrire has a razor-sharp intellect and is very approachable'

'Jeremy Schrire gets to the crux of complex issues quickly and is very personable and calm to deal with. His advice is always insightful, practical and commercial'

'Rebecca Halford-Harrison and her team are extremely responsive'

'Rebecca Halford-Harrison is an exceptional legal partner'

Key Clients

Britvic PLC

Athena Cosmetics, Inc.

RB UK Commercial Limited

Associated British Foods plc/Allied Bakeries

Effective Space Solutions Limited

Louvresol Specialist Projects Limited

Velador Associates Ltd

Intersection Parent, Inc.

FFP Trading Limited

Shakespeare Birthplace Trust

Work highlights

  • Advised global firm Drum Cussac Group, which provides state-of-the-art security risk management, on the protection and repatriation of members from areas of potential hazard, whether political, economic, natural or terrorist related.
  • Advised Britvic on all matters relating to its relationship with Pepsi, including acting on the key contracts within the Pepsi stable (and joint venture partners of Pepsi) as well as the launching of new brands.
  • Acted on a significant UK joint venture between Intersection and Primesight.
  • Acted for Associated British Foods plc/Allied Bakeries in the negotiation of new contracts with a number of leading supermarket chains.
  • Advised Erda Energy on a licence agreement which will form the basis for a master template for the licensing of its technology for commercial and industrial purposes throughout the UK.

Lewis Silkin LLP’s primary industry sectors are advertising and marketing, retail, and technology, but the firm also advises clients in the professional services, media, automotive and manufacturing fields. James Gill specialises in complex, high-value commercial contracts, ranging from agency, distribution and franchising to domestic and international outsourcing projects. He co-leads the team with Jo Farmer, who has particular expertise in the advertising and marketing sector, with a focus on intellectual property. She advises clients on exploiting and protecting their intellectual property rights in commercial contracts.

Practice head(s):James Gill; Jo Farmer

Key Clients

Marks and Spencer plc

Howdens

ASOS

Suzuki

News International

Britvic

Zappi

Hermes

Facebook

Haymarket

Work highlights

  • Advised Marks & Spencer on various strategically important multimillion-pound logistics arrangements covering the UK, Ireland and other territories.
  • Assisted Zappi with negotiating a strategically important and high-value contract with a research provider.
  • Advised Howdens on a wide range of commercial contracts, including purchase of raw materials, logistics arrangements, consultancy arrangements, website build, terms of sale, software development/build projects, and trading claims.
  • Advised Sifted on the terms of its joint venture with the FT, including structuring advice on the terms of the joint venture, such as on the brand licence and other commercial aspects.
  • Advising Ozone on setting up various new commercial arrangements.

Mishcon de Reya LLP’s practice has broad sector expertise, particularly in retail, hotels and sport. The firm is also known for its experience in matters relating to blockchain, technology and issues with an international element. Adam Rose specialises in the area of overlap between commercial contracts and real estate. He leads the practice with Lewis Cohen, whose experience covers sport, retail, media and hospitality, as well as specialist agreements in these sectors. Also notable is associate Anne Rose, who joined in 2018 from Simons Muirhead & Burton and co-leads the blockchain group.

Practice head(s):Lewis Cohen; Adam Rose

Other key lawyers:Anne Rose

Key Clients

Tesco Stores Limited

Harrods

Matchroom Limited: Boxing, World Snooker & Professional Darts

SportPesa

Quinyx

Morphe

Castore

Rwanda Development Board

Antognolla

Al Mana

Work highlights

  • Advised Tesco on the international arrangements relating to its F&F clothing and accessories concept.
  • Advised longstanding client Matchroom Boxing on a major international joint venture arrangement with Perform Group (t/a DAZN) in what has been reported as boxing's first ever $1bn deal.
  • Advised Harrods on a supply and licensing arrangement with US retailer Williams Sonoma that sees a range of Harrods-branded items being sold by Williams Sonoma in the US.
  • Acted for Quinyx on a number of high-profile global customer agreements.
  • Advised the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) on its high-profile sleeve partnership agreement with Arsenal FC.

Morrison & Foerster LLP’s outsourcing practice covers a range of sectors, with a particular focus on technology. The team acts for established technology services providers, tech start-ups seeking advice on their technology roll-outs, and technology-enabled companies needing multi-jurisdictional expertise. Practice head Alistair Maughan is co-chair of the firm’s global technology transactions group and leads the European TMT practice. He focuses on commercial contracts and technology-based projects for major companies and public sector organisations.

Practice head(s):Alistair Maughan

Key Clients

NNIT

MSA Security

Olympus

Novartis

UPS

The 'extremely friendly, approachable and razor-sharp' Simons Muirhead & Burton specialises in media and entertainment, publishing, and technology, and is particularly well known for its expertise in film and television, music and sports broadcasting. The firm also provides cross-border expertise, with Maninder Gill well regarded as a retail sector specialist in the Far East. 'Superstar' Simon Goldberg leads the team and is an expert commercial contract adviser to the publishing sector. Also notable is James Greenslade, who was promoted to partner in 2019.

Practice head(s):Simon Goldberg

Other key lawyers:Maninder Gill; James Greenslade

Testimonials

'The team has a very strong franchises background in different countries'

'The firm has knowledge in the targeted country, and is cost effective and always very quick in its reactions'

'The firm's knowledge of today's complex media market is second to none'

'Particularly strong in publishing and broadcasting'

'Commercially astute with an ability to solve problems around data and rights issues' 

'Delightful to work with'

'Maninder Gill has many years of business development experience in the retail industry and is very familiar with the international franchisee model'

'Simon Goldberg brings great clarity and is brilliant at running a team involving multiple lawyers where his wealth of experience, problem-solving skills, imaginative ideas and commercial nous set him apart'

'Simon Goldberg makes the whole process utterly painless'

Key Clients

LADBible

Urban Retreat – Luxury Spa

European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR)

Unilever

Gruppo Media (publisher of the Rouleur magazine)

LADBible (THREE)

Executors of the Estate of the late Felix Dennis and Dennis IP Ltd

Crossmedia Group (Crossmedia Inc, Crossmedia GmbH, and Crossmedia London Ltd)

Lumos 365

Folding Helmet Technology Limited

Liz Earle

Meters/bonwe

Cage Warriors

Work highlights

  • Advised LADbible on the drafting and negotiation of a landmark digital marketing master services agreement with Diageo.
  • Advised Urban Retreat, the luxury beauty treatment brand with a flagship store in Harrods, on its expansion into the Middle East.
  • Advised on two ground-breaking commercial deals for European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR), which operates and promotes the Heineken Champions Cup and the European Rugby Challenge Cup.

The ‘responsive, prepared and commercial’ Squire Patton Boggs provides ‘depth and breadth of legal and commercial knowledge’. The practice specialises in cross-border work, particularly in the advertising and media, technology and telecoms sectors. Andrew Wilkinson heads the firm’s commercial, intellectual property and information technology group and ‘his commercial awareness is second to none’. He co-leads the team with the firm's global head of intellectual property and technology, David Elkins.

Practice head(s):David Elkins; Andrew Wilkinson

Testimonials

'They understand the client's business and industry and so can provide tailored advice'

'Squire Patton Boggs is a well-rounded and multi-faceted firm'

'They have strong core practices and excellent relationships in areas and countries where they do not have a presence'

'They are well able to manage matters across departments and have a wide range of offices and lawyers available to deal with any matter'

'Their extensive office base, excellent partners and well-trained associates make them the perfect fit for an organisation which requires swift and concise advice on a broad range of matters'

'Andrew Wilkinson's knowledge and advice is exceptional. His availability, in-depth knowledge of a vast array of matters, and calm and collected demeanour make him very easy to instruct and work with'

'Andrew Wilkinson has a very reassuring and confident approach to anything thrown his way'

Key Clients

MiQ (formerly Media iQ)

Sony Corporation

Work highlights

  • Acted for a UK news organisation on the formation of The Ozone Project, a collaboration between various newspapers to offer premium digital advertising space.
  • Acted for a university in its strategic partnership with the Nanjing Municipal Government.
  • Advised a leading international programmatic digital advertising agency on a variety of issues.
  • Acted for a UK electric truck manufacturer on an investment from and technology licensing arrangement with an Indian multinational auto-parts manufacturer.

Stephenson Harwood advises on a range of agreements, from day-to-day trading arrangements to one-off complex and strategic alliances, with a particular focus on the food and drink, transportation, hospitality and life sciences sectors. Dan Holland specialises in centralised procurement structures and consignment manufacturing arrangements. He co-leads the team with Jonathan Kirsop, who has notable expertise in advising on commercial arrangements in the art and cultural property market.

Practice head(s):Dan Holland; Jonathan Kirsop

Testimonials

'The team is very strong'

'The team is very easy to work with and commercial, and work is always completed to a very high standard'

Key Clients

Astellas Pharma Europe Limited

Incyte Biosciences Technical Operations Sàrl

Aviagen Limited

UCB Biopharma Sprl

City Sightseeing

Trenitalia c2c Limited

Arriva UK Trains Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising Astellas Pharma Europe Limited on a wide range of commercial contract matters, including service agreements, distribution agreements and technology contracts.
  • Advising Incyte Biosciences Technical Operations Sàrl on a number of agreements for the procurement of equipment for a new biologics facility.
  • Advising Aviagen Limited on exclusive and non-exclusive agreements for the international supply of goods and the provision of ancillary services.
  • Advising on numerous commercial contracts for UCB, acting as a quasi-extension of its in-house legal team.
  • Advising City Sightseeing on global franchising operations and ad hoc commercial queries.

Technology specialist Taylor Wessing LLP combines commercial contracts experience with expertise in areas including data protection and competition law. A key name for the firm is Christopher Jeffery, who focuses on advising technology companies on complex contractual negotiations, data protection governance and compliance.

Other key lawyers:Christopher Jeffery

Blake Morgan LLP is known for business process outsourcing and services supply agreements, with particular expertise in the food businesses, manufacturing and retail sectors. The firm also has experience handling cross-border and technology-related matters. Simon Stokes leads the team and specialises in IP, technology and competition law.

Practice head(s):Simon Stokes

Key Clients

Wiggle

Harlequin Football Club

Hana Group

Kerry Foods

The Women's Prize Trust/Women's Prize for Fiction

Work highlights

  • Advised Wiggle on a wide range of commercial and IP work.
  • Advised the Women's Prize Trust on its commercial arrangements, including sponsorship and other arrangements in relation to the prestigious 2019 Women's Prize for Fiction.
  • Advising longstanding client Harlequins on a range of commercial matters.

Specialising in the sports, media and IT sectors, Brabners LLP has experience in a range of areas, particularly logistics. The firm also has cross-border capabilities and expertise in acting for housing associations. The practice is co-led by Nik White, who advises on general commercial matters and contracts; intellectual property expert Colin Bell; Matt Brown, who is known for his experience in data protection matters and competition law; and Richard Hough, who provides specialist advice on a wide range of contentious and non-contentious EU public procurement matters.

Practice head(s):Nik White; Colin Bell; Matt Brown; Richard Hough

Testimonials

'Broad range of skills and industry knowledge'

'Very pragmatic and open about likely outcomes and give good advice on what cost-effective course of action to take'

'Trustworthy and good value for money'

Key Clients

Parcel2Go.com Limited

Commonwealth Games Federation

Codeweavers

Veka plc

Peel Ports

Lime Pictures

CORGI Services Limited

Chase de Vere IFA Group plc

Human Recognition Systems Limited

NetConsult Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) on a number of matters, including its relationship with a sports marketing and entertainment agency, and arrangements which deal with all of CGF’s commercial, media and marketing rights relating to the 2018, 2022, 2026 and 2030 Games.
  • Advising Peel Ports Group in connection with the procurement of key IT infrastructure projects, including an enterprise resource planning solution to be rolled out across its ports business.
  • Advising Parcel2Go.com Limited in connection with a number of white labelling website contracts with logistics and parcel delivery companies.
  • Advising Codeweavers Ltd on a number of commercial contracts.
  • Instructed by Lime Pictures to prepare a contract for services pursuant to a tender process for the purchase of equipment and system integration.

Bristows LLP advises clients across a range of sectors, but has notable expertise in technology, IP and life sciences. The firm is particularly known for handling matters related to competition, regulatory issues, privacy and data protection. Matthew Warren leads the team and is experienced in large, complex commercial transactions. His team advised Ferroglobe on long-term strategic arrangements related to its acquisition of two manganese plants from multinational natural resource giant Glencore.

Practice head(s):Matthew Warren

Key Clients

Johnson & Johnson

Diageo

Guardian News & Media

AstraZeneca

De Beers

Honda

Genomics England

Mundipharma

Fundamental VR

Aston Martin

Ferroglobe

Cray Inc

Zoho

Work highlights

  • Advised Genomics England on a commercial collaboration with IQVIA, under which IQVIA will develop its platform to accommodate genomic data.
  • Acting as legal adviser for all of the commercial contract work for Waters’ European business, which is handled through its subsidiary, Micromass.

  • Supporting De Beers UK and its newly formed subsidiary Lightbox Jewelry Ltd with a number of commercial agreements relating to the launch by De Beers of a new lab-grown synthetic diamond jewellery business under the brand Lightbox Jewelry.

  • Providing ongoing general commercial support to the Intercontinental Hotels Group (comprising well-known brand names such as Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn and InterContinental).
  • Assisted GSK with the change in its distribution model in respect of its entire product portfolio in the UK.

Clarkslegal LLP is experienced in commercial contracts and contract procurement, as well as various commercial agreements, including complex cross-border and multi-party agreements. The firm specialises in facilities management, engineering and technology, financial services, hotels and leisure, and life sciences. Ashan Arif leads the practice and advises on commercial agreements and broader company matters, as well as corporate finance and restructurings. Stuart Mullins joined in 2018 from The Head Partnership Solicitors LLP and brings expertise in the technology arena.

Practice head(s):Ashan Arif

Other key lawyers:Stuart Mullins

Testimonials

'They always respond quickly to requests'

'They have the ability to deal with a broad range of legal issues and take a pragmatic approach when offering their advice'

Key Clients

University of Reading

Meridian Leisure Hotels

Trunk CLT Limited

Kiss House Limited

Lockhart Catering Equipment a trading division of Bunzl (UK) Limited

Stanton Williams Limited

Optimum Group Plc

Aggora Group

Area Sq Limited

Mackin Construction Limited

Work highlights

  • Assisted Lockhart Catering Equipment, a trading division of Bunzl (UK) Limited, with reviewing the proposed terms of contracts for a number of substantial multimillion-pound enterprises.
  • Advised Stanton Williams Limited on 75 different matters involving complex contract drafting, reviewing and negotiations in connection with a number of high-value projects.
  • Assisting Optimum Group Plc with reviewing the proposed terms of its commercial contracts for various substantial multimillion-pound agreements for the supply of services.
  • Assisting Aggora Group with reviewing the proposed terms of a number of substantial multimillion-pound contracts.
  • Assisting Area Sq Limited with reviewing the proposed terms of its commercial contracts for various substantial, multimillion-pound projects, including advice on amendments and related surety documents.

Duane Morris has particular expertise in the automotive, metals and tech spaces, in which it provides a range of services, notably advising on outsourcing. Susan Laws leads the practice and focuses on commercial contracts, M&A and venture capital, especially in the automotive and life sciences industries. She is also part of the firm's niche cannabis industry team. Also notable is Ute Mueller, who specialises in domestic UK and international transactional work, with a focus on the Anglo-German market and the metal commodities sector. John Benjamin joined from DWF in 2019 and brings expertise in intellectual property, technology and data privacy law, dealing with both contentious and non-contentious matters.

Practice head(s):Susan Laws

Other key lawyers:Ute Mueller; John Benjamin

Key Clients

Jaguar Land Rover Limited

Vauxhall Motors Limited

Cargill - Trade and Capital Markets

Baylis Group

Tony Levoi Group

Work highlights

  • Advised mine finance specialist RK Mine Finance in relation to a $185m joint venture between TSX and NYSE listed Canadian gold miner Asanko Gold Inc and JSE and NYSE listed South African gold miner Gold Fields Limited (one of the world’s largest gold mining groups) in connection with the Esaase and Obotan gold projects in Ghana.
  • Represented Jaguar in connection with setting up the Jaguar I-PACE e TROPHY race car series, a world championship street-race series.
  • Advised Jaguar Global Financial Services on the commercial aspects of its white label wholesale and retail auto financing framework for global vehicle sales.
  • Assisted global giant Cargill - Trade and Capital Markets with structuring documentation for certain multi-jurisdictional financing matters.

Fox Williams LLP has particular experience in cross-border agency and distributorship terminations. The ‘very experienced and tactically astute‘ Stephen Sidkin is ‘someone you want on your side rather than as an opponent' and is known for his expertise in agency and distributorship, notably concerning international agreements.

Practice head(s):Stephen Sidkin

Testimonials

'Exceptional understanding of commercial agent law'

'Fox Williams are very transparent and able to quickly understand the key areas and how they should be assessed'

'An approachable practice which responds quickly and effectively'

'Fox Williams provides a personal service irrespective of the size of their client's business'

'Stephen Sidkin just gets it. He provides well-thought-through responses to questions and always seems to ask the right questions to quickly understand the issues'

'Stephen Sidkin is extremely proficient, demonstrates expertise in his field and is able to provide high-level, diligent advice'

'Stephen Sidkin has a wealth of industry-specific knowledge and experience and communicates the relevant detail concisely'

Key Clients

The Software Incubator Limited

Atex Media Limited

MV App Holdings Limited

Breitling UK Ltd

Johnstons of Elgin Co. Limited

John Smedley Limited

Hush Telematics Limited

Aden & Anais Limited

Hera London Limited

King’s Education SL

Work highlights

  • Acted for the Software Incubator Limited in its claim for compensation under the Commercial Agents Regulations against Computer Associates (UK) Limited.
  • Advising Atex Media Limited on a critical software maintenance agreement negotiated with major newspaper group.
  • Advising MV App Holdings Limited on its online fashion model platform.
  • Advised the UK subsidiary of a luxury Swiss watch brand on a number of matters concerning its retail selective distribution system and agreements made with authorised retailers.
  • Advising Hush Telematics Limited on its online driver/car hire platform.

Jones Day assists customers and suppliers with negotiating a range of outsourcing agreements, including telecoms, network, business process outsourcing and IT contracts. A key name for the firm in this area is Jonathon Little, who has a particular focus on large outsourcings, notably as part of M&A transactions, as well as strategic IT procurements.

Other key lawyers:Jonathon Little

Michelmores LLP specialises in advising on consumer protection law issues, including distance selling, e-commerce considerations and financial services regulation, as well as acting for data-driven businesses. Tom Torkar leads the practice and is experienced in advising national and multinational clients in the aviation, IT, media, big data, e-commerce and financial services sectors. Notable in his team are Ian Holyoak, who has expertise in major commercial contracts and related areas of competition, state aid and procurement, and David Thompson, who is known for acting in the food and drink and manufacturing sectors. The team was further strengthened by the arrival of former barrister Charles Courtney, who focuses on IP/IT matters and bridges the gap between the commercial and disputes practices; he joined from Latham & Watkins in 2019.

Practice head(s):Tom Torkar

Other key lawyers:Ian Holyoak; David Thompson; Charles Courtney

Testimonials

'A solid team with great strength and depth to support on all matters'

'Cost effective and responsive with good sound pragmatic advice appreciating and recognising the needs and pressures of the client'

'Tom Torkar is a fantastic all-round commercial lawyer. Fast-working and uncompromising, with the tenacity to secure the best interests of the client whilst not losing sight of the commercial drivers'

Key Clients

Saba Park Services UK Limited / Saba Park Solutions UK Limited (formerly Indigo Park)

Haynes Publishing Group plc

Landmark Information Group Limited / SearchFlow Limited

Limitless Technology Limited

Ashton Bentley Collaboration Spaces Ltd

Regional & City Airports Limited (part of Rigby Group plc)

Downing  LLP

Seasalt

Camp Kerala Group

Gro Group Limited

Frobishers Juices Ltd

Work highlights

  • Advising Seasalt in relation to multiple commercial and IP-related matters.
  • Acting as trusted legal adviser to longstanding client Camp Kerala.
  • Assisted IMMJ with its service and tech-related commercial arrangements.
  • Acting as a trusted adviser to Haynes in relation to a wide variety of its commercial needs.
  • Assisting RCA in relation to its concession arrangements at Norwich Airport (namely catering (with TRG) and retail (with WHSmith)).

Mills & Reeve LLP specialises in public sector and contracting work. Notable names for the firm in this area are commercial contracts and procurement expert Greg Gibson; firm head of technology and life sciences Kevin Calder; and Peter Wainman, who is known for his expertise in IT law and data protection.

Other key lawyers:Greg Gibson; Kevin Calder; Peter Wainman

Testimonials

'Well-coordinated lines of communication'

'Clients know they are in excellent hands'

'They go that extra mile'

Stevens & Bolton LLP has particular experience in the retail, food and drink, travel, life sciences and utilities sectors. In addition, the firm has expertise in technology-related issues and agreements. Beverley Whittaker leads the practice and works on a range of contracts, including procurement, supply of services, commercial and marketing arrangements.

Practice head(s):Beverley Whittaker

Testimonials

'Take the time to get to know the nuances of not just the client's industry but also the business itself'

'Able to turn challenging projects around quickly and also proactively suggest enhanced and superior positions and proposals'

Key Clients

AB InBev

SecurMed UK

KIA Motors

TGI Fridays

CBRE Managed Services

Kuoni Travel

QIC Global

Ylem Energy Ltd

FXG International (Foster Grant)

Edina  Energy

Allianz

Unum

Work highlights

  • Assisted TGI Fridays with a number of large, business-critical transactions relating to its supply chain.
  • Instructed by CBRE Managed Services Limited on a high-profile, large-scale outsourcing of facilities management services by BT, which was transferring its entire FM capability to CBRE and its sub-contractor, ISS, covering over 7,000 sites.
  • Advising SecurMed on its relationship with manufacturing authorisation holders (MAHs), and drafting end-user terms for the use of the UK system.
  • Acted for longstanding client CI Plus on a number of contractual arrangements.
  • Advised Edina Energy on its energy services company (ESCO) contracts and construction contracts to underpin the energy trading contracts.

Wedlake Bell LLP’s practice covers a range of commercial contracts, from agency and consultancy arrangements to outsourcing and supply contracts. Adrian Heath-Saunders leads a team of IP, IT and commercial specialists, including Jonathan Paul Cornthwaite, who has particular expertise in large-scale projects and services agreements. The group is advising Axpo Power on contractual arrangements with the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority relating to the reprocessing of nuclear waste at Sellafield.

Practice head(s):Adrian Heath-Saunders

Other key lawyers:Jonathan Paul Cornthwaite

Testimonials

'Prompt, rigorous and thorough'

Key Clients

Axpo Power AG

Four Marketing Ltd

Ganymede Care Ltd

Honest Burgers

Hugo Boss

Inalytics Ltd

Made Thought Ltd

Optima Medical Ltd

OrthoPediatrics Inc

Pangaea Laboratories Ltd

Pearson Lloyd Design Ltd

Petersham Nurseries

Reed Exhibitions

SMC Design

Spire Healthcare

Surrey County Cricket Club

Which? Limited

Work highlights

  • Representing Reed Exhibitions in a variety of commercial contract negotiations in support of the RELX in-house legal function.
  • Advising Which? Limited in relation to a range of commercial contracts entered into to support its role as a consumer champion.
  • Advising Hugo Boss in relation to amendments to the terms and conditions of contracts for the supply of products to customers of its wholesale business, including in relation to amendments to take account of a potential Brexit.
  • Advising Honest Burgers in connection with proposed contracts with Deliveroo, both in relation to Deliveroo's standard delivery service and the Deliveroo Editions services.
  • Advising Ganymede Care Limited, an operator of care homes in the South East, in relation to the updating of its terms and conditions to take account of Competition and Markets Authority guidance.

Weightmans LLP is well known for advising clients in the public and private sectors on a number of areas, including intellectual property, IT, data protection, competition law and procurement. Victoria Robertson, who has experience in commercial, intellectual property and data protection matters, leads the practice with tech and healthcare expert Sarah Walton. Their team was strengthened in 2018 by the arrivals of infrastructure projects specialist Stephen Johns from DLA Piper and experienced commercial lawyer Tracy Lake from the National Grid.

Practice head(s):Victoria Robertson; Sarah Walton

Other key lawyers:Stephen Johns; Tracy Lake

Key Clients

OBG Pharmaceuticals Limited

BHSF Group

Luxfer

Lexis Nexis Risk Solutions

Chiesi

Sonoco

Bruntwood Group

Surrey and Sussex Police

Northern Health Science Alliance

Motor Insurers’ Bureau

Work highlights

  • Acted for the Luxfer Group on a wide range of matters, including a large number of high-value business-critical agreements and arrangements.
  • Advised Anixter Limited on a variety of commercial matters.
  • Advised LexisNexis Risk Solutions on a large number of high-value and complex contracts with insurers, brokers and managing general agents (MGAs).
  • Advised the Motor Insurers' Bureau on the IT aspects and data sharing arrangements between the client and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency in relation to the MyLicence Project.
  • Acting for Merseytravel on the procurement of new vessels to continue the provision of the iconic Mersey Ferries service, together with an associated maintenance package for the vessels.

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