Hall Of Fame

Next Generation Partners

Rising Stars

Firms To Watch: Retail and consumer

Headed up by the ‘excellent’ Rachael Barber and Calum Murray, Deloitte LLP works with a number of blue-chip brands, particularly from the worlds of tech and luxury goods, on a range of commercial and IP-driven matters.

Retail and consumer in London

Addleshaw Goddard

With a large team and significant national presence, Addleshaw Goddard is well placed to advise on the full range of retail and consumer sector issues. Acting for global conglomerates, start-ups, and family-owned businesses, the team’s expertise covers supply chain management, brand employment, digitalisation, and real estate matters. The team is jointly led by Andrew Rosling and Rona Bar-Isaac; the former is a seasoned M&A expert and has a particular specialism in joint ventures, while the latter takes point on competition matters, handling merger clearances and abuse of dominance claims for large retailers and consumer goods corporates. ‘Technically strongShakeel Dad, who is based in Leeds, is recommended for his employment expertise, while Georgina Powling, also based in the same office, acts on the full spectrum of contentious and non-contentious intellectual property matters. Daniel Sweeney handles transactional real estate mandates.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Rosling; Rona Bar-Isaac


Other key lawyers:

Shakeel Dad; Daniel Sweeney; Georgina Powling


Testimonials

‘Very practical, always take the time to understand your business and its culture to ensure they can advise in a way which is akin to your company values.’

‘Shakeel Dad is technically strong, dynamic, to the point and gives you a view rather than just telliny you what the risk is. This is invaluable to the in-house lawyer.’

‘The AG consumer team are a young and dynamic group. They bring an energetic and relevant approach to legal matters with a genuine feel and familiarity for the sector. This is highly relevant for many of the sector’s fast-growth and innovative brands.’

‘I mention Rona Bar-Isaac for her notable subject excellence, commercial approach and down-to-earth style which clients particularly appreciate.’

Key clients

ASDA


Boohoo


Co-op


Diageo


Finlays (Swire)


Fortnum & Mason


Haleon


JD Sports


Lidl


Lloyds Pharmacy (Aurelius)


Primark


Vision Express


Ted Baker


Wickes


Work highlights


  • Assisting Co-op with the disposal of its petrol forecourt business to Asda.
  • Advising Primark on the launch of its click-and-collect proposition.
  • Advising Diageo on its acquisition of Don Papa.

CMS

CMS’s full-service retail and consumer offering spans the gamut of contentious and non-contentious work, including data privacy, consumer law, intellectual property, real estate, and transactional matters. Counting household grocers and retailers from the cosmetics, fashion, automotive, and e-commerce sectors among its impressive roster of clients, the team is well placed to advise on brand protection, manufacturing, and ESG mandates, with the last of these being an area of significant recent growth for the team. Katie Nagy de Nagybaczon and Tom Scourfield jointly head the team, recommended for their contentious IP and corporate advisory expertise, respectively. Helen Johnson handles corporate transactions and M&A for a range of high-profile retailers, working alongside Louise Wallace, who is praised for her ‘good practical knowledge of the sector’.

Practice head(s):

Katie Nagy de Nagybaczon; Tom Scourfield


Other key lawyers:

Helen Johnson; Louise Wallace


Testimonials

‘Excellent value for money. Trusted partner relationships which are deeply commercial.’

‘Helen Johnson – standout client focus.’

‘CMS is a full-service law firm with expert knowledge of almost every conceivable legal issue related to the retail sector.’

Key clients

Sainsbury’s (including Argos / Habitat / Tu)


Marks & Spencer


JD Sports


Costco


Dune


White Stuff


Gail’s Bakery


Costcutter


Dreams


French Connection


Jaguar Land Rover (“JLR”)


New Balance Athletics, Inc.


Active Partners


Compass Group


Finsbury Foods


Strix Group


Yorkshire Premier Meat


City Chic Collective


Depop


Nestlé


SharkNinja UK


Mayborn (UK) Limited (Tommee Tippee)


Work highlights


  • Acting for Jaguar Land Rover and associated dealers and finance companies in respect of a class action involving over 31,000 claimants which concerns Nitrogen Oxide and Nitrogen Dioxide emissions.
  • Advised M&S on an outsourcing transaction.
  • Advising on a £1.1bn buy-back of omnichannel stores which Sainsbury’s put into a sale and leaseback portfolio in 2000.

Dentons

Dentons’ multi-disciplinary retail team advises large retailers, brands, restaurants and franchises based in the UK across the full range of retail and consumer work, including technology, real estate matters, data and cybersecurity issues, outsourcing, and employment matters. James Batham, a seasoned real estate litigator, now co-heads the practice alongside Scott Singer, whose workload covers commercial contracts, IT, and data privacy law for household retailers in the food and fashion sectors. Intellectual property mandates are handled by Anna Copeman, while Tristan Jonckheer is recommended for his work in the TMT and financial services sectors.

Practice head(s):

James Batham; Scott Singer


Other key lawyers:

Anna Copeman; Tristan Jonckheer


Testimonials

‘Very good, efficient; very good understanding of our company.’

‘Great experience working with Tristan Jonckheer. Tristan has an excellent understanding of both the legal and commercial drivers and is able to provide innovative contractual solutions for complex issues. Tristan’s ability to advise across TMT, retail and financial services sectors proved invaluable in a highly negotiated and bespoke global arrangement which was vital to achieve business objectives.’

‘A very well-resourced and responsive team, with involvement from multiple partners as needed to ensure no lapse in support for time-critical negotiations. The team is very willing and adaptable to working with different time zones and responds quickly in updating long and complex agreements, ensuring turnaround times are met.’

Key clients

John Lewis Partnership (including Waitrose)


Sainsbury’s (including Sainsbury’s Bank and Argos)


Marks & Spencer


The Edinburgh Woollen Mill Group


Avis Budget Group


Sports Direct / Frasers Group


Card Factory


Swatch Group Limited


TJX Inc (TK Max and Homesense)


American Eagle Outfitters


Work highlights


  • Advising Sainsbury’s across numerous specialisms, including commercial contracts, technology and outsourcing, real estate, construction and dispute resolution.
  • Advising Fraser Groups across numerous specialisms, including real estate, litigation, data privacy, and employment.
  • Advising Marks & Spencer across numerous specialisms, including commercial contracts, technology and outsourcing, real estate, and dispute resolution.

DLA Piper

DLA Piper’s dedicated and sizeable consumer goods, food, and retail practice counts an impressive roster of high-profile brands, fashion retailers, and consumer goods companies among its clients. The practice, which comprises three international sub-teams spanning the food and beverage, fashion and retail, and consumer goods industries, is overseen by a team of specialists. Ruth Hoy leads on intellectual property matters and has extensive experience advising on copyright, design rights, and trade mark issues, with notable strength in contentious matters. Mark Dewar concentrates on commercial law and regulatory matters for consumer product manufacturers, while the ‘excellent’ Chloe Forster takes point on tech, outsourcing, and digital transformation projects. Noel Haywood advises on M&A, both domestic and cross-border, for major retail corporates, and Sophie Lessar focuses on retail financial services and e-commerce. Also in the core team is environment and health and safety specialist Nick Rock, who heads up the firm's global retail and consumer offering.

Practice head(s):

Sophie Lessar; Chloe Forster; Mark Dewar; Ruth Hoy; Nick Rock; Noel Haywood


Testimonials

‘DLA Piper has a multi-departmental team of specialists that have expertise in fashion and retail. This is shown in their retail events and sector focus. DLA use various technology to improve efficiency and deliver value. DLA has both global reach and subject matter expertise across various jurisdictions.’

‘Ruth Hoy provides commercial and pragmatic advice and distils complex concepts into digestible and understandable information.’

‘Chloe Forster offers valuable industry expertise and insight with great experience across a variety of sectors.’

‘The team at DLA understands the business and its goals and offers valuable support.’

‘Chloe Forster and her team are highly knowledgeable, very practical and accessible on matters. They give great service and they are focused on bringing value to the client. They understand our business and stakeholder needs well and drill down into issues in order to help with solutions.’

‘Chloe Forster is excellent. Smart, approachable, very practical and really interested in her client’s business needs and how to help and add value. We trust her implicitly.’

Key clients

Alteri Partners


AllSaints Retail Limited


Alteri Partners


Bacardi Martini


Burberry Limited


Christian Dior Couture


C & J Clark International Limited


Coca Cola


Converse


Dalton BidCo


Danone


Dr Martens Airwair Group Limited


Ecolab


Founders of Pangea Laboratories


Giorgio Armani Retail s.r.l


Graphite Capital


H&M


Heineken


HP


Hurtigruten


IAG Avios


J.D. Williams & Company Limited


JD Sports Fashion Plc


John Lobb


Levi Strauss


Lululemon Athletica UK Ltd


LVMH


Marks & Spencer


Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation


Mondelez


New Balance Athletic Shoes (U.K.) Ltd


Nike


Ocado Group PLC


Pearson


Phillip Morris International


Puma United Kingdom Limited


RCI


Reckitt Benckiser


River Island Clothing Co Limited


Sephora


Specialized Bicycle Components Inc.


SuperDry


Tamara Ralph


Tate & Lyle


The Hut.com Limited


Tiffany & Co.


Unilever


Versace U.K. Ltd


Wickes Building Suppliers Limited


Wilko Limited


Work highlights


  • Supporting the Burberry legal team with international commercial contracting and sourcing issues.
  • Advising Pearson on its acquisition of Mondly, a global online language-learning platform.
  • Handling intellectual property matters in the UK on behalf of the Hermès Group.

Osborne Clarke LLP

Based in Bristol and London, Osborne Clarke LLP has an active retail and consumer practice that frequently sees the firm acting for an impressive roster of clients from a broad range of sectors, including luxury fashion, consumer goods, and cosmetics. The firm is adept at advising on ESG and consumer protection matters, acting for a number of food tech clients and advising on greenwashing and packaging matters. The dedicated, full-service practice is overseen by Anna Elliott, dual-qualified in the UK and Australia, who advises luxury fashion and brand clients on employment and personnel-related matters. Former practice head Dolf Darnton remains active, and takes point on real estate and property matters, while Kate Vickery is recommended for her international regulatory and compliance expertise.

Practice head(s):

Anna Elliott


Other key lawyers:

Dolf Darnton; Kate Vickery


Key clients

Marks & Spencer


Diageo


Jojo Maman Bebe


Beavertown Brewery


Superdry


French Connection


NOBULL


Halfords


Howdens


Danone


THG


L’Oréal


InTheStyle


Reckitt


Work highlights


  • Handling a wide range of property, litigation, banking and regulatory matters on behalf of Marks & Spencer.
  • Acting for Diageo on all UK employment law matters, including handling employment disputes and Tribunal claims, advising on employee relations issues and the employment aspects of commercial transactions.
  • Advised JoJo Maman Bébé on its acquisition by Next and Davidson Kempner.

RPC

Fielding a ‘group with real sector expertise‘, RPC runs the gamut of contentious, advisory, and cross-border retail matters. The team is regularly instructed by clients from a broad range of industries, with an emphasis on the fashion and beauty, as well as the food and beverage sectors. Karen Hendy and Jeremy Drew jointly head up the practice; the former advises listed companies and their subsidiaries, with notable expertise in distressed purchases and acquisitions, while the latter is the key contact for multi-jurisdictional arbitrations, as well as for contentious and non-contentious intellectual property mandates. ‘Standout’ Ciara Cullen oversees the firm’s food and drink sub-group, and is an experienced intellectual property and technology specialist with a particular focus on sustainability, and consumer regulations and compliance. Simon Edwards is recommended for his commercial contract negotiation expertise. 2023 saw IP specialist Sarah Mountain and banking and finance specialist Edward Colville promoted to the partnership.

Practice head(s):

Jeremy Drew; Karen Hendy


Other key lawyers:

Ciara Cullen; Sarah Mountain; Edward Colville; Simon Edwards


Testimonials

‘The team is responsive and knowledgeable in their field. Thorough.’

‘Simon Edwards is always responsive and the work product is always on point.’

‘This is a group with real sector expertise; they get it. As well as high-end legal advice, I am consistently impressed by the insights I get from their experience elsewhere.’

‘Ciara Cullen is a standout lawyer – smart, thoughtful and an absolute pleasure to work with.’

‘A very personable, interested and interesting firm that has a keen awareness of the commercial and business context in which legal questions, problems and opportunities play out. They broker the necessary skills within the team while focusing via the industry leads on your broader business questions.’

‘Very responsive, easy to work with, and experts in their field.’

‘Ciara Cullen – very experienced and proactive in finding business solutions.’

Key clients

Sports Direct / Frasers Group / Flannels / Studio Retail


Stella McCartney


Beyond Bamboo


Daks Simpson


Charlotte Tilbury


Shepherd Neame


Tartine et Chocolat (part of Kidiliz Group)


Corbin & King


Fever-Tree PLC


The Halo Group


AB InBev


Irish Distillers / Pernod Ricard UK / Absolut Vodka / Chivas Brothers


Coca-Cola Europacific Partners


McArthurGlen


Saracens


PizzaExpress


Work highlights


  • Advised Frasers Group on multiple transactions, including its £48m acquisition from JD Sports Fashion of 15 companies comprising various premium fashion brands.
  • Instructed to represent Budweiser Brewing Group in Commercial Court litigation which has commenced between Budweiser and Wetherspoons, relating to bar share obligations under the agreement and the requirements of Wetherspoons to ensure that a specific ratio of Budweiser brands are present across the estate of over 800 outlets.
  • Advising Beyond Bamboo on its B2B and B2C commercial contracts, especially with various hotel chains, as well as assisting with its corporate restructuring, including several rounds of new capital raises.

Baker McKenzie

Baker McKenzie’s consumer goods and retail team leverages the firm’s broader commercial and corporate capabilities to advise market-leading retailers on strategic M&A, restructurings, and commercial contracts. Supply chain management, employment advice, and real estate matters are also key areas of focus for the team. David Scott, Helen Brown, and Julia Hemmings jointly oversee the team. Scott takes point on corporate matters and concentrates on cross-border M&A and joint ventures for consumer sector clients; Brown has a focus on offline and online sales work in the fashion retail and digital media sectors; and Hemmings has a broad practice which includes e-commerce, marketing, and privacy matters.

Practice head(s):

David Scott; Helen Brown; Julia Hemmings


Key clients

L’Oréal


Tapestry


Edwardian Hotels Group


Unilever


Bidcorp Foodservice


KKR


Puig


Charlotte Tilbury


Capri Holdings


Mondelēz International


Bowers & Wilkins Group Limited (BWG)


Waldencast Ventures


Natura& Co


Work highlights


  • Advised Puig, a family-owned fashion and fragrance company based in Barcelona, on its acquisition of a majority stake in Byredo, a luxury fragrance and lifestyle brand founded in Sweden, during a UK competitive auction sale.
  • Handling all IP matters on behalf of L’Oréal, ranging from patent and trade mark litigation, through brand and portfolio management, to advising on numerous IP issues relating to its ongoing digital transformation strategy.
  • Advising Tapestry on all issues concerning its UK retail stores and numerous EMEA stores across three brands: Coach, Kate Spade and Stuart Weitzman.

Bird & Bird LLP

Graeme Payne leads Bird & Bird LLP’s ‘proactive and solution-oriented’ retail and consumer team, which comprises three sub-groups spanning the food and beverage industry; the luxury, fashion and retail industry; and the hospitality and leisure sector. Core areas of focus for the team include sustainability and green advertising, consumer issues, and retail-specific technology matters. Robert Turner is recommended for cross-border commercial transactions and regulatory compliance mandates, while Victoria Hobbs specialises in contentious work concerning franchising, licensing, and distribution agreements. Ian Edwards is the key name for tech transactions and has significant experience assisting commercial clients with the implementation of digital transformation projects. At the associate level, James Fowler advises on supply chain, franchising, and e-commerce agreements.

Practice head(s):

Graeme Payne


Other key lawyers:

Robert Turner; Ian Edwards; Victoria Hobbs; James Fowler


Testimonials

‘My experience with the B&B team is definitely positive. Always on the spot, with perfect knowledge of the matter and with useful suggestions. More importantly, the approach is always positive and the entire team has been very available for any needs.’

‘I mainly worked with James Fowler and he demonstrated a strong knowledge of the matter by suggesting the right solution for the different topics. Open to listen and understand.’

‘B&B always provides proactive and solution-oriented assistance to further the commercial interests of our company. This includes an understanding of our company’s business and strategy. Provide timely and sound advice and guidance.’

‘Advise, draft and support transactional activities with skill and commercial focus. They provide legal support with a solution-oriented attitude and practical focus, particularly Robert Turner.’

‘A lot of lawyers hold themselves out as retail/consumer experts but Robert Turner really is – he is hugely knowledgeable, personable and available (turning urgent/important work around quickly).’

Key clients

Lidl


Tempur Sealy


Marks & Spencer


Monica Vinader


Electrolux


Rothy’s


Mothercare


Laser Clinics UK


Cara Jewellers


Weaves UK


Work highlights


  • Acting for Lidl in High Court litigation against Tesco, concerning Tesco’s use of its Clubcard logo.
  • Advising Mothercare on its international franchise and supply chain arrangements in the Middle East, India, Indonesia and Malaysia.
  • Advised Marks & Spencer on the acquisition intellectual property, including the source code and algorithm developed by Thread, the personalised fashion marketplace.

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner

Described by one client as an ‘exceptional team with unusual business acumen', Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner’s multi-disciplinary retail and consumer products group is well placed to advise on the full spectrum of retail mandates, and counts several large grocers and luxury goods retailers among its clients. Under the leadership of Carol Osborne, dual-qualified in the UK and the US, recent work for the team has included advising on complex data flows, franchise agreements, and corporate transactions for large multi-national retailers. The firm has a long track record advising private and public companies on complex corporate issues, including cross-border M&A and private equity matters; Benjamin Lee is another key name here. Commercial and outsourcing contracts are handled by Richard Shaw.

Practice head(s):

Carol Osborne


Other key lawyers:

Benjamin Lee; Richard Shaw


Testimonials

‘Exceptional team with unusual business acumen.’

‘Experienced lawyers, open-minded people. Amazing knowledge.’

Key clients

Farfetch Limited


Koniver Wellness


Carrefour Partenariat International


Manzanita US Investments LLC


ME+EM Limited


The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. and subsidiaries


Ocado Group


McWin


Work highlights


  • Advised Carrefour International Partnerships on its long-term franchise arrangement with Electra Consumer Products and its subsidiary Yenot Bitan.
  • Advised the founder and other existing shareholders of ME+EM on its disposal of approximately 40.11% of the fully diluted issued share capital to Highland Europe Technology Growth IV.
  • Advised Manzanita US Investments on the sale of a majority stake in Byredo to Spanish conglomerate Puig.

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP

Counting household names such as Lego, Frasers, and Helly Hansen among its impressive roster of clients, the retail and wholesale practice at Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP handles the full spectrum of retail mandates. Leveraging the firm’s international network, the practice has particular strength in cross-border mandates. Leeds-based real estate litigation specialist Andrew Todd now co-heads the team with assistance from Paris-based Catherine Detalle, who oversees the firm’s international consumer sector team. Former practice heads Paul Moorcroft, in Birmingham, and Amanda Partland, in Leeds, remain active and are recommended for their expertise in real estate disputes and corporate transactions in the food and beverage sectors, respectively.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Todd; Catherine Detalle


Other key lawyers:

Paul Moorcroft; Amanda Partland


Testimonials

‘Eversheds Sutherland has large teams covering a wide variety of legal matters with office locations across the globe providing great international reach. Their lawyers are technically first class and their advice and guidance is always on point, they really stand out as leaders in their field.’

‘They are always very responsive and able to manage tight deadlines. They really understand our business and have a wealth of experience in this area, which has been instrumental in the development and management of our retail and distribution strategy.’

Key clients

LEGO


Castore


Wm Morrison Supermarkets Limited


Gymshark


DFS


Frasers


Helly Hansen


Kering


Next


Newell Brands


Gowling WLG

Based across Birmingham and London, the retail team at Gowling WLG fields a sizeable team with expertise across the full range of retail, consumer, and trading mandates. Jocelyn Paulley is instructed by start-ups, established brands, and suppliers, and focuses on IT, digital infrastructure, and data protection matters. Intellectual property strategy and litigation mandates are handled by John Coldham. Paulley and Coldham jointly head the practice. Also in the core team are Kate Swaine, who advises on brand and design strategy, and handles trade mark enforcement, and commercial contracts specialist Sarah Riding.

Practice head(s):

John Coldham; Jocelyn Paulley


Other key lawyers:

Sarah Riding; Kate Swaine


Testimonials

‘Gowling WLG’s retail team works across all disciplines, including corporate, commercial contracts, IT, real estate, finance, employment, IP, data protection and dispute resolution and has provided us with outstanding support in all those areas over many years.’

‘I would say that the firm is an assured and robust operation. Its understanding of the markets it advises in is detailed, up to date and relevant.’

‘The team integrates itself seamlessly as part of the overall project team, drives forward the legal work proactively, and is available at very short notice.’

Key clients

Asda


Entain PLC


De Kuyper Holding NV


Freddy SPA


Freemans Grattan Holdings Limited


Great Little Trading Co


Halfords Autocentres


H&T Group plc


Klarna Bank AB


Pret a Manger (Europe) Limited


The Jewellery Channel


The Midcounties Co-operative


THG (formerly known as The Hut Group)


Unilever


Wickes


Work highlights


  • Advised Freemans Grattan Holdings on the outsourcing of its IT function to Tech Mahindra.
  • Advised Halfords Autocentres on the acquisition of Lodge Tyre.
  • Advised the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games on multiple retail issues, including ticket sales, merchandise sales, retailer outreach, ambush marketing guidance, official dressing for outlets in Birmingham, and take downs from online marketplaces.

Mishcon de Reya LLP

With demonstrable strength in contentious work, Mishcon de Reya LLP’s retail team is instructed by large retail and luxury brands, both established companies and start-ups, to handle trade mark disputes, and advise on brand management issues, franchise developments, and commercial and strategic partnerships. The team is jointly led by Sally Britton and Lewis Cohen; the former’s expertise spans brand protection strategies, including enforcement, monitoring, and design filing, while the latter specialises in the full range of retail sector-related commercial arrangements. Following its January 2023 merger with Mishcon de Reya LLP, the team strengthened its capabilities with the arrivals of employment expert Dominic Holmes, data privacy specialist James Boyle, and Louisa Dixon, who handles international brand protection and enforcement matters.

Practice head(s):

Sally Britton; Lewis Cohen


Other key lawyers:

Richard Leedham; Louisa Dixon; James Boyle; Dominic Holmes


Testimonials

‘We do a lot of work with Mishcon de Reya. They are excellent. They know how to manage complex disputes to a successful outcome. And they are approachable and a pleasure to work with as well.’

‘Richard Leedham – a very safe pair of hands and a brilliant, commercial operator who knows how to manage and settle the most complex of disputes. This includes large, group consumer claims.’

‘Solid team where each level achieves excellence. Their advice has proven timely and solid. We rely on them extensively.’

‘The most distinguishing characteristic of the group is the level of turnaround coupled with handling the details and nuances of our industry really well. One develops a serious level of trust with the excellent service that the firm renders.’

Key clients

Sainsbury’s


Ocado


Capital & Counties (Covent Garden London)


Christian Louboutin


Fendi


Alexander McQueen


British Fashion Council


Iceland Foods


Lidl


John Lewis


Thom Browne


TKMaxx


Bluebella


Lakeland


Ryman


Work highlights


  • Representing Iceland Foods in trade mark proceedings before the EUIPO Grand Board of Appeal.
  • Advising The Olayan Group on issues relating to The Knightsbridge Estate.

Pinsent Masons LLP

Pinsent Masons LLP’s retail and consumer offering runs the gamut of matters, ranging from corporate transactions, to e-commerce, data protection work, and ESG issues. The team acts for clients across the sector, including start-ups and established names in the food and beverage, sports retail, consumer technology, and automotive sectors. Private equity specialist Tom Leman leads the team, which also includes Samantha Livesey and Florian Traub, who are key names for intellectual property matters, handling the full range of contentious and non-contentious trade mark, domestic and international filing, enforcement, and portfolio management mandates. Zoe Betts is recommended for her regulatory expertise.

Practice head(s):

Tom Leman


Other key lawyers:

Zoe Betts; Florian Traub; Samantha Livesey;


Testimonials

‘The Pinsent Masons team have provided invaluable assistance to our business in a variety of fields. We particularly appreciate the high standard of service and work across every area for which we use the team. Relevant experience and knowledge that delivers cutting-edge legal work and advice.’

‘The professionalism of the individuals we work with at Pinsent Masons helps them stand out from the rest – working in fast-paced environments with rapid turnarounds and detailed, well thought out work. Zoe Betts in particular exudes these qualities.’

Key clients

Silentnight


The Co-Op


Avon Cosmetics


Booker


Tesco


The Body Shop


Rapha


Sweaty Betty


Hero AG


Motor Fuel Group


Bumble


Easyjet


Harrods


John Lewis Group


Google


Diageo


Selfridges


Honda


Dobbie’s Garden Centres


Uniqlo Europe Ltd


Work highlights


  • Advised Uniqlo on the acquisition of its flagship store and new European HQ building in Regent Street.
  • Assisting Huel with a significant fundraising round for a further $24m led by Highland Europe, the existing investor, together with publicised support from major celebrities Idris Elba, Sabrina Elba, Jonathan Ross and Grace Beverley.
  • Advising Honda Motor Europe on a full-service basis, including in respect of IT and technology procurement matters.

Shoosmiths LLP

The ‘very commercial’ team at Shoosmiths LLP handles the full spectrum of retail and consumer sector-related work, including consumer rights, property litigation, e-commerce, and data privacy matters. Regularly instructed by clients from the automotive, cosmetics, and food and beverage industries, the team has particular strength in construction and M&A matters, as well as emerging technologies, including NFTs. Practice head Gary Assim acts in a range of intellectual property disputes, including those relating to copyrights, design rights, and trade marks, with an emphasis on cross-border litigation. Consumer protection issues are handled by Felicity Forward, while Stuart Lawrenson takes point on employment matters. Property litigation expert Wayne Nash left the team in 2023 and is now at Deloitte LLP.

Practice head(s):

Gary Assim


Other key lawyers:

Stuart Lawrenson; Felicity Forward


Testimonials

‘Very commercial. Responsive to our needs. Understanding of our circumstances.’

‘Shoosmiths has deep industry knowledge which allows it to better service its clients.’

‘Gary Assim – legal knowledge and manner of dealing with people; communication skills.’

Key clients

Molson Coors Beverage Company


Clinique


M·A·C Cosmetics


Frasers/Sports Direct


The Estée Lauder Companies Inc.


Hilton Grand Vacations


Briggs & Riley Limited


Brooks Sports Inc


Waterstones Booksellers Limited


Joules Limited


Tesco Stores Limited


Moss Bros Group Limited


Shark Ninja


Work highlights


  • Advised M·A·C Cosmetics on its first major NFT project known as M·A·C Viva Glam NFT in honour of National Youth HIV/AIDS Awareness Day.
  • Advised Estee Lauder Companies on its acquisition of Tom Ford.
  • Advised Joules and then its administrators on the sale to NEXT.

Taylor Wessing LLP

Taylor Wessing LLP’s cross-practice consumer and retail group acts for food and beverage, fashion and luxury, and e-commerce sector clients, handling the full spectrum of corporate, employment, and IP matters. The team also advises on industry-specific issues, including licensing and franchising matters, as well as supply chain management. Ian Moore benefits from previous industry experience as the managing director of a sportswear brand, and advises on brand establishment, supply and sales channels, and growth strategies for e-commerce brands. Edward Story has a broad focus which spans corporate real estate, investment, and M&A work, while Jason Rawkins is the key name for trade mark, and design rights advice for luxury and fashion brands; senior counsel Xuyang Zhu is also recommended for her IP expertise. Moore, Story and Rawkins jointly lead the practice.

Practice head(s):

Ian Moore; Edward Story; Jason Rawkins


Other key lawyers:

Xuyang Zhu


Key clients

Vinted


Beauty Pie


Gong cha Global


Damm (Estrella Damm)


Heycar


Inditex Group (Zara, Berksha, Massimo Dutti)


William Grant & Sons


Farfetch


Ruggable


LDH La Dori


Ferrero


Vava Cars


Zapp


Work highlights


  • Advised FARFETCH on its global strategic partnership with Neiman Marcus Group NMG, which will utilise FARFETCH Platform Solutions to re-platform the Bergdorf Goodman website and mobile application.
  • Advising Inditex, owner of the Zara, Bershka, Massimo Dutti and other fashion brands, on all IP matters in the UK.
  • Advising Gong cha on expanding through brand licensing across the world.

Browne Jacobson LLP

Browne Jacobson LLP’s growing retail group stands out for its multi-disciplinary and cross-office capabilities, working across the spectrum of contentious and non-contentious data protection, commercial, real estate, employment, and IP issues for a range of household names and luxury brands. Emma Roake now co-heads the practice alongside real estate specialist Roland Gray, having joined the firm from Fox Williams LLP in September 2022. Roake has a strong track record advising fashion brands, retailers, and distributors on commercial agreement negotiations, as well as handling disputes, and her arrival strengthens both the team’s contentious and non-contentious commercial capabilities.

Practice head(s):

Roland Gray; Emma Roake


Testimonials

‘Good communication and provide clear guidance when needed.’

Key clients

Louis Vuitton


Christian Dior


Wilko


Walgreens Boots Alliance (“Boots”)


Vision Express


Halfords


Paperchase


Hillarys Blinds


Not On The High Street


DPD


JD Sports


PureGym


Paddle Holdings


Charles Russell Speechlys LLP

With strength in advertising, marketing, and brand protection work, Charles Russell Speechlys LLP‘s retail, consumer, and consumer tech group acts for food and beverage sector clients, sports retailers, and luxury brands. Jason Saiban takes point on commercial contracting matters, including digital transformation projects, sponsorships, and logistics mandates. Contentious and regulatory matters are handled by Edward Craig, while Michael Powner is recommended for his employment expertise. Saiban, Craig and Powner jointly lead the team. Intellectual property specialist Mary Bagnall is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Jason Saiban; Michael Powner; Edward Craig


Other key lawyers:

Mary Bagnall


Key clients

Nike


Perfect Moment


Robert Kime


Freddie’s Flowers Ltd


Cadbury


Wagamama (part of TRG)


Urban Outfitters


Bowers & Wilkins


Caffe Nero Group Limited


Côte Brasserie


Farfetch


Work highlights


  • Handling sponsorship, sports marketing, advertising, e-commerce, regulatory, privacy and data protection, litigation, employment, and real estate issues on behalf of Nike.
  • Advising Bowers & Wilkins on several brand collaborations, partnerships and sponsorship deals, including a brand collaboration for 007 James Bond intellectual property, featuring the launch of 007-branded headphones, licensing of the Bond theme music and an event at Abbey Road Studios featuring the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
  • Successfully registered Cadbury’s colour purple (defined by Pantone 2685C) as a trade mark without contours and with no description defining its use.

Clifford Chance LLP

Clifford Chance LLP’s retail team benefits from the firm’s broader commercial and competition capabilities, advising clients on M&A, antitrust investigations, and risk management matters. Practice head David Pudge specialises in domestic and cross-border M&A, public takeovers, and corporate governance matters, acting for well-known retailers and investors into the sector. Robert Crothers advises UK-listed and international clients on equity issues and joint ventures, while Greg Olsen helms non-contentious competition work.

Practice head(s):

David Pudge


Other key lawyers:

Robert Crothers; Greg Olsen


Testimonials

‘Genuinely good people and a real pleasure to deal with, can-do attitude, understanding of our company, the transaction and what we are looking to achieve.’

‘Client service, understanding of what is important to us or should be, acting in our interests.’

‘They are very good lawyers, great industry knowledge and very dedicated to each case.’

Key clients

Amazon


Mondelez International


Devro plc


THG plc


C&C Group plc


Halfords plc


Unilever plc


The Coca-Cola Company


Delivery Hero


Waterstones


Work highlights


  • Advised Pfizer on the demerger of Haleon from GSK and Haleon’s listing of its ordinary shares on the London Stock Exchange and American depositary shares representing ordinary shares on the New York Stock Exchange.
  • Advising Philip Morris on various aspects of the international expansion of its smoke-free business and advising on the $16bn public offer to acquire Swedish Match.
  • Representing Amazon in two active European Commission investigations regarding Amazon’s marketplace, as well as other Member State investigations.

K&L Gates LLP

K&L Gates LLP acts for fashion and sport retailers, luxury brands, and consumer electronics, with notable strength in intellectual property and competition matters. The team is jointly led by Arthur Artinian, Catherine Adam and Jennifer Marsh. Artinian is a seasoned intellectual property expert, handling disputes, transactions, and strategy advice. Adam is recommended for commercial and logistics mandates, while Marsh specialises in advising consumer brands on competition issues, go-to-market strategies, and commercial agreements. Gabriela Da Costa was elevated to the partnership in March 2022, and also works on competition matters.

Practice head(s):

Arthur Artinian; Catherine Adam; Jennifer Marsh


Other key lawyers:

Gabriela Da Costa


Key clients

Coty


SharkNinja


CTD Tiles (owned by Aurelius Group)


Nike


GHD


Ergotron


Wella Company


Kinship


Fiskars Group and various brand businesses (Waterford, Wedgwood, Royal Copenhagen, Iittala, Royal Doulton, and Fiskars tools)


Modibodi


Work highlights


  • Advising Prada, Waterford and GoPro on the design and competition law compliance of their D2C retail presence and activities.
  • Advising on CTD’s acquisition of 13 Tile Giant branches.
  • Advising producers such as Coty, ghd and Jabra on consumer protection and product compliance laws in relation to the sale of products to consumers.

Lewis Silkin

Jointly led by Anna Sella and Julia Poulter, Lewis Silkin’s retail, hospitality, and leisure team counts luxury brands, high-street fashion retailers, investors, and shareholders among its clients. The full-service and multi-disciplinary team has notable strength in logistics and supply chain issues, as well as advertising and brand protection matters. The ‘intelligent, strategic, sensibleOliver Fairhurst is recommended for his contentious intellectual property expertise.

Practice head(s):

Julia Poulter; Anna Sella


Other key lawyers:

Oliver Fairhurst


Testimonials

‘Wholly reliable and value additive.’

‘Short-term support, pragmatic approach, pleasant atmosphere.’

‘Forward thinking team, very accommodating to the client’s way of working, excellent industry experience.’

‘Oliver Fairhurst – intelligent, strategic, sensible, knowledgeable.’

‘Very strong practice, extremely responsive and a deep knowledge of the retail sector.’

Key clients

M&S


ASOS


Superdry


Liberty Retail


Harvey Nichols


Airwair International Limited (Dr. Martens)


Bacardi


Swedish Match


Unilever


Jellycat


Work highlights


  • Acted for Deliveroo on litigation concerning the employment status of its riders.
  • Advising Britvic on the development of its innovation protection, enforcement, and operation strategies in relation to patents and designs as the business evolves into new dispensing technologies and associated business models.
  • Supporting the in-house legal function of Jellycat with day-to-day advice on commercial and consumer law projects.

Linklaters LLP

Drawing upon the firm’s strength in corporate and commercial work, the retail and consumer sector team at Linklaters LLP is adept at handling issues through the entire consumer value chain, with noted strength in cross-border M&A, corporate restructurings, and private equity investment advice. The team is jointly led by Paul McNicholl and Michael Honan; the former advises on corporate governance, joint ventures, and ESG-related issues, while the latter’s practice concentrates on strategic acquisitions and high-profile transactions for clients across the retail and consumer sectors, including e-commerce businesses, luxury goods retailers, and food and beverage suppliers.

Practice head(s):

Michael Honan; Paul McNicholl


Key clients

Unilever plc


Nestlé S.A.


Yum! Brands


JD Sports


Dr. Martens plc


Steinhoff International N.V


Westfalia Fruit International


JDE Peet’s


Ocado


ASOS


Caffe Nero


Charoen Pokphand Group Co., Ltd


Sainsbury’s


John Lewis


Work highlights


  • Advised Perfetti Van Melle, the owner of confectionary brands such as Chupa Chups and Mentos, on its $1.35bn acquisition of Mondelez’s developed-market gum business in the United States, Canada and Europe.
  • Advised the sellers, including founder Stephen Carroll, on the sale of Don Papa Rum to Diageo.
  • Advised Merrill Lynch International – as sponsor to JustEatTakeaway.com – on the class 1 disposal of its interest in Brazilian food delivery service iFood.

TLT

The multi-disciplinary retail and consumer goods team at TLT excels in advising clients across the grocery, luxury fashion, homeware, automotive, and consumer goods sectors in both the contentious and non-contentious spaces. The group is led by Perran Jervis, whose expertise spans the full range of sector-specific commercial mandates, with an emphasis on outsourcing, distribution, and supply agreements.

Practice head(s):

Perran Jervis


Testimonials

‘Can be relied upon to give sound legal advice with a pragmatic approach and a keen eye on costs.’

Key clients

Sainsbury’s


boohoo Group plc


The Co-op


WH Smith plc


Iceland Foods


Superdry plc


Pets at Home


JD Sports


Kingfisher plc


Beiersdorf


Purepay Retail


TJ Morris Ltd t/a Home Bargains


Work highlights


  • Assisting Superdry with the renegotiation of its FE Origin Logistics operations in East Asia.
  • Advised JD Sports concerning their child protection and safeguarding policy.
  • Providing regular strategic employment and HR advice to Home Bargains across the UK and defending the client in Employment Tribunal litigation.

Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP

Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP advises retailers, landlords, and consumer brands on the full range of retail and trading issues, including transactions and real estate matters. Commercial real estate specialist Claire Wilkinson, in Leeds, heads up the team. The ‘pragmatic and responsiveChristina Tolvas-Vincent, based in Southampton, is the key contact for retail-related employment matters, having extensive experience advising employers in the sector on the full range of relevant issues. Bristol’s Sasha Hinton takes point on property litigation mandates.

Practice head(s):

Claire Wilkinson


Other key lawyers:

Christina Tolvas-Vincent; Sasha Hinton


Testimonials

‘Christina Tolvas-Vincent is pragmatic and responsive.’

‘Strength in depth with a realistic commercial approach to all matters.’

‘Proactive and reactive, timely and diligent, focused and quick.’

Key clients

Freshwater Group of Companies


The Body Shop


Holland and Barrett


Tuli Holdings


Majestic Wine Warehouses Limited


Colgate-Palmolive (UK) Limited and Hill’s Pet Nutrition Limited


Greggs Plc


Work highlights


  • Advising Freshwater on its proposed redevelopment of the City of London site, Tenter House, near the new Moorgate Station and interchange with the Elizabeth Line.
  • Advising the Body Shop on franchise agreements.
  • Advising Holland & Barrett on a range of issues.

Clyde & Co

Clyde & Co’s retail team has notable strength in real estate matters, advising on construction, leasehold liability transactions, and portfolio management.  Anabelle Redman advises on retail investment and lettings, while Laura Oliver has extensive experience handling transactional real estate matters for retail-sector clients; the two jointly lead the team. Paul Cole acts for landlords and corporate occupiers, another area of strength for the team. The partners are supported by a strong team of associates, including Francesca McGrath, who assists with commercial real estate matters, and Joni Traynor, recommended for her expertise in retail property work.

Practice head(s):

Annabelle Redman; Laura Oliver


Other key lawyers:

Francesca McGrath; Joni Traynor; Paul Cole


Testimonials

‘Francesca McGrath takes time to understand our business. So she understands what we need.’

‘The depth of experience and the practical/commercial solutions put forward by their team have impressed me, especially in the way transaction problems have been overcome, the speed of response and a genuine personal approach to their client and the wider project team.’

‘Laura Oliver and Paul Cole both listen carefully to the problems or issues being aired and have a detailed appreciation of the team’s objectives to complete a project successfully. Importantly, they are proactive in trying to get deals completed within an agreed timeline.’

Key clients

Kingfisher plc


B&Q Ltd


Loro Piana G.B. Limited


Dewsbury 1 LLP


Joe The Juice UK Limited


Five Guys


Currys plc


Smiggle


Screwfix Direct Limited


Regatta Limited


C.J. Clark International Limited


Work highlights


  • Advising Kingfisher on the relocation of its London headquarters from Sheldon Square to Paddington Square.
  • Assisting B&Q with a re-gear project affecting around 100 retail stores.
  • Instructed as a long-standing advisor for Loro Piana G.B, a high-end fashion retailer, having been involved in the original letting and subsequent lease extensions and underlettings.

Fieldfisher

Fieldfisher‘s multidisciplinary retail and consumer practice draws on the firm’s international network and its cross-departmental capabilities to provide an offering which runs the gamut of relevant matters. David Bond and Gordon Drakes jointly lead the practice; the former takes point on commercial, franchising, and advertising issues, while the latter is they key name for IP instructions and joint ventures. Carly Schiff is recommended for the full range of insolvency work.

Practice head(s):

David Bond; Gordon Drakes


Other key lawyers:

Carly Schiff


Testimonials

‘Carly Schiff has a good understanding of our business and provides timely responses to any queries.’

‘Technically sound, responsive and commercially minded.’

 

Key clients

LVMH Louis Vuitton


Hamleys


Dune


Levi Strauss & Co


Dominvs Group


Currys


Charlotte Tilbury


Co-op


JD Sports (including Blacks, Go Outdoors, Millets & Size)


eBay


Getir


Work highlights


  • Advising the Greenwich Shopping Park Unit Trust (a consortium of banks including BNP Paribas) on all legal aspects of the management of Greenwich Shopping Park, based in London.
  • Advising Currys on all its intellectual property matters and assisting with management of its global IP portfolio.
  • Advising Charlotte Tilbury on its various HR requirements.

Fox Williams LLP

Fox Williams LLP’s practice stands out for its dedicated fashion law expertise; the team handles trade mark litigation, supply and distribution agreements, and franchising matters. Stephen Sidkin leads the team’s fashion law sub-group and specialises in advising on supply chain agreements, while Rhys Griffiths steers the travel sub-group, another key area of focus.

Practice head(s):

Stephen Sidkin; Rhys Griffiths


Testimonials

‘A proactive team of experts that keeps me up to date with legal developments that impact the industry in which I trade. A wide breadth of knowledge with a prime contact at the practice directing me to the relevant key people.’

‘Attentive and reliable in all communication providing solutions to the issues or business developments I need them to address.’

‘Practical and pragmatic.’

Key clients

Laurice El Badry Rahme Ltd., dba Laurice & Co.


Glanbia Performance Nutrition, Inc.


Graziani srl


Holland Cooper Clothing Limited


Freeths LLP

Freeths LLP’s cross-office retail and consumer team is well versed in work relating to sustainability, strategic partnerships and M&A, as well as covering IP disputes, acting for trade bodies, start-ups, and established brands. Philippa Dempster heads the practice and advises on commercial agreements, including outsourcing, franchising, supply chain agreements, and logistics issues. Managing associate Jessica Matthews is recommended for her expertise advising clients in the luxury goods and technology industries.

Practice head(s):

Philippa Dempster


Other key lawyers:

Jessica Matthews


Key clients

Aldi


PVH


Shoe Zone Retail Limited


Travis Perkins


TALA


Lyle & Scott Limited


Time Products (UK) Limited


Unilever


Paul Smith Limited


L’Oreal


Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company Limited (“CMBC”)


Scotch Corner Designer Village


Poundstretcher


Pukka Pies


Dreams


Wickes


Magnet Limited


Self-Portrait


JOSEPH


Euro Garages


Alumier Labs UK Limited


Hello Fresh UK


Work highlights


  • Assisting PVH with the negotiation of contracts with Heathrow Airport and various suppliers of customer services, payment services and operational support in order to set up a new retail reserve and collect model for Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger.
  • Successfully settled a major trade mark and passing off claim for fashion brand Lyle & Scott against American Eagle Outfitters.
  • Advising influencer Grace Beverley on the follow-on and angel investments, following on from successful assistance with a seed investment of £4.2m to expand her fast-growing sustainable activewear label.

Harbottle & Lewis LLP

Harbottle & Lewis LLP’s retail and fashion practice has a multi-disciplinary offering stretching across both contentious and non-contentious matters. Melanie Benson and Sandi Simons jointly lead the team; the former advises luxury brands and designers on the full range of bricks and mortar property requirements, while the latter helms the contentious side, acting on a broad range of commercial disputes for clients in the sector, with particular expertise in disputes concerning commercial agent regulations.

Practice head(s):

Sandi Simons; Melanie Benson


Testimonials

‘Responsiveness, sharpness of analysis and great understanding of industry dynamics and commercial implications.’

‘Great collaboration, support and guidance in navigating complex situations.’

Key clients

Harrods Limited


Pets at Home


Victoria Beckham Limited


MOB


De Beers


LLAYRS Ltd


Astrid & Miyu


Humble Foods t/a Bold Bean Co


Wolford


Missoma


Hunter Boots


Diageo


Robinson Webster (Holdings) Limited (t/a Jigsaw)


Virgin Atlantic Airways


Work highlights


  • Assisted De Beers with the launch of its Tracr platform, a distributed diamond blockchain which starts at the source and provides tamper-proof source assurance at scale.
  • Defending Harrods against two Employment Tribunal claims, which include allegations of race discrimination, disability discrimination and unfair dismissal.
  • Advised Mob, a food media platform, on a number of its partnership deals with food and beverage brands, including the Hellmann’s Fridge Night Meals campaign.

Travers Smith LLP

With particular strength in corporate and commercial advice, the cross-departmental retail team at Travers Smith LLP is instructed by a roster of domestic and international retail clients across multiple industries, including food and beverage, automotive, and fashion. The ‘wonderfulAdrian West oversees the group and advises on domestic and cross-border M&A, demergers, and joint ventures, as well as offering strategic corporate advice.

Practice head(s):

Adrian West


Testimonials

‘We receive outstanding support from the retail team at Travers. Their sector knowledge and experience set them apart.’

‘Adrian West is wonderful to work with. Nothing is ever too much trouble and we always feel completely supported by Adrian and the wider team.’

Key clients

McColl’s Retail Group


SSP


Auto Trader


Burger King


Itsu


Storeshield


Work highlights


  • Advising an investment vehicle backed by Burger King UK on its acquisition of the Karali Group.
  • Advising Itsu on its expansion into France.
  • Advising the McColl’s Group on its restructuring negotiations with stakeholders and the recent sale of its business to Morrisons, which was transacted via an administration sale.