The team at DLA Piper 'understands the operational realities of retail and distribution'. The practice is adept at advising on employment law, real estate law, restructuring issues and brand protection matters. Practice head Alexis Fierens brings IP expertise, while Joost Haans specialises in competition law. Pauline Hellemans is well-versed in handling IP disputes in the retail sector, and Emma Stockman advises on consumer protection matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘DLA Piper’s Belgian Commercial & Retail team combines deep sector knowledge with a practical, business-oriented approach. They understand the operational realities of retail and distribution, and their advice strikes the right balance between legal advice and commercial pragmatism.'
- 'The team is highly responsive, easy to work with, and proactive in anticipating business needs. They are excellent at structuring complex commercial arrangements including supplier relationships, in a way that is both compliant and workable in practice.'
- 'Alexis Fierens is a trusted adviser with a rare combination of technical skill and commercial intuition. He brings clarity and confidence to complex contractual matters and is particularly strong at translating business strategy into legally sound, pragmatic solutions.'
- 'Pauline Hellemans is exceptional and stands out for her precision, responsiveness, and strong understanding of retail operations. She is detail-oriented yet practical, ensuring that the implementation of legal advice runs smoothly.'
- 'Alexis Fierens and Emma Stockman are easy to reach. They have an outstanding understanding of our business.'
- 'The team is professional, engaged, and client-focused. A reliable partner for companies operating in fast-moving consumer markets.'
Key clients
- Belkin
- Colruyt
- Wolford Belgium
- Zoco Home
- Simply Bread
- AS Watson (Kruidvat)
- Cofra
- Fine Dining & Living
- Advanced Power Solutions (APS)
- BD myShopi
- Burberry
- Candy Hoover Group
- Casa International NV
- Clarks Shoes
- Daniel Wellington
- Dior
- Dr Martens Airwair
- Duracell
- Exterioo
- EyeCare
Work highlights
Advising a Belgian supermarket group on a broad range of matters, including the revision of supplier contracts in light of EU and Belgian legislation on unfair trading practices.
Advised a home furnishing brand on the compliance of its Belgian supply chain operations with local law.
Assisting Levi Strauss & Co. with a wide range of European data protection and privacy matters.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Alexis Fierens
Other key lawyers
Joost Haans; Pauline Hellemans; Emma Stockman