James Gill > Lewis Silkin > London, England > Lawyer Profile

The franchising group at Lewis Silkin is well equipped to assist clients with building domestic and international franchise brands and networks across high-end and high-street restaurant chains, fashion labels, and leisure-based companies. Franchise agreements, structuring and tax-related issues, and brand management all fall within the department’s remit. Simon Entwistle leads the department, while James Gill heads up the wider digital, commerce, and creative group. Entwistle advises clients on the entire gamut of non-contentious mandates, including mergers and joint ventures.

A key port of call for technology platforms, Lewis Silkin’s broad expertise encompasses AI, cyber security, digital regulation, NFTs, and Saas. James Gill leads the team and is experienced in global system integration and technology contracts. Nick Allan is well versed in intellectual property agreements and technology transfers, while Roch Glowacki is particularly focused on IT outsourcing. Another key member of the team is Sally Hughes.

Lewis Silkin stands out for its work in the media and entertainment space, and is described as a ‘market leader in media law’, often working on brand partnership and sponsorship agreements. The team is overseen by James Gill, whose key strengths include data privacy, which is incorporated into his advice on agency and franchising agreements. Joint managing partner Jo Farmer has a niche in media buying contracts, evidence of the group’s wider expertise in this area. Alan Hunt, an IP law specialist, is adept at handling supply contracts work. Alex Meloy is also instrumental to the group’s work involving consumer law, including advising on marketing agreements.