CMS advises on trade and distribution law, particularly focused on the automotive and e-mobility, energy, consumer goods and retail sectors. The team provides guidance on purchasing, production, franchising, liability, energy and climate change matters, as well as supply chain compliance and distribution law. The practice, jointly led by Lars Eckhoff and Gerald Gräfe, integrates peripheral legal areas including competition, intellectual property and dispute resolution. Eckhoff focuses on advising clients in the consumer products and chemical industries, with particular expertise in e-commerce and distribution systems, including selective distribution. Gräfe brings expertise to the automotive sector, supporting clients navigating the industry transformation, especially in relation to purchasing, cooperation agreements and distribution law. Also noteworthy is Robert Budde who specialises in commercial agency law, framework supply agreements, authorised dealer arrangements and competition law.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Compared to other firms, the practice stands out for its commitment to transparency in billing, embracing flexible fee arrangements and leveraging technology to streamline case management. The firm has also made notable strides in promoting diversity and fostering a genuinely inclusive environment, which enriches both client service and team dynamics.'
- 'The individuals I work with are distinguished by their professionalism, integrity, and genuine commitment to client success. Partners consistently demonstrate exceptional leadership and an ability to navigate challenging situations with calm expertise. Associates bring fresh perspectives and a remarkable attention to detail, making them invaluable to the team. '
- 'What sets these professionals apart is their willingness to go the extra mile, their collaborative spirit, and their proactive communication. These qualities have fostered a high level of trust and have made working with the firm a consistently positive experience.'
- 'Tobias Bomsdorf is the best in his field – a must go-to.'
- 'Highly qualified lawyers, excellent responsiveness, practical recommendations tailored to the situation in the company.'
- 'This practice distinguishes itself through a client-focused approach that consistently delivers practical, effective solutions. The team’s strengths lie in their deep subject-matter expertise and their ability to handle complex matters with efficiency and clarity. Clients benefit from a culture of open communication and collaboration, which ensures that advice is both strategic and responsive.'
Key clients
- Luxcara
- Subsidiray of Mercedes AMG
- ESL Gaming GmbH
- Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG
- Gardena
- Honeywell
- Hymer
- Husqvarna Logistics GmbH
- Sennheiser
- Kärcher
Work highlights
Advised a Mercedes-AMG subsidiary on the restructuring of distribution agreements for spare parts in the motorsport sector across Europe, North America, Asia and Australia for the FIA GT racing series. This included ensuring competition law compliance in more than 10 jurisdictions worldwide.
Advising Luxcara and GreenH on the investment in one of the first major green hydrogen projects in Norway. With an initial electrolysis capacity of 20 MW and a planned expansion to 30 MW, the Bodø Hydrogen Project will make a significant contribution to the energy transition in Norway. When completed, the plant will be able to produce around 4,800 tonnes of green hydrogen per year.
Representing ESL Gaming in court proceedings, defending against commission and compensation claims from commercial agents, arising from the alleged brokerage of its share sale to a Saudi Arabian company in the eSports industry.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Gerald Gräfe
Practice head
Gerald Gräfe; Lars Eckhoff
Other key lawyers
Robert Budde; Markus Schöner; Peter Endres; Dorothée Janzen; Andreas Heim; Dirk Loycke; Ulrich Becker