CMS supports national and international blue chip clients, medium-sized companies and start-ups in trade and distribution law matters and regularly acts across the automotive, energy, consumer goods and retail sectors. The team advises on commercial and procurement matters, large-volume distribution and price adjustment disputes, logistics, distribution antitrust law, franchise and liability issues as well as supply chain compliance in accordance with the new supply chain law. Lars Eckhoff is experienced in e-commerce and dealership matters and in 2024 took over the practice management from Gerald Gräfe, who focuses on the automotive sector. Further key contacts are Robert Budde, who is experienced in Italian distribution law, and Peter Endres (franchise, selective distribution systems).
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'Extremely good knowledge of the automotive sector and the relevant basic principles of the group. Quick technical understanding and practical, implementable solutions in the shortest possible time. Adapts to the client's way of thinking and anticipates the client's wishes.'
'We work closely with CMS on development contracts and assignments in the automotive industry and are extremely satisfied.'
'Solid good quality at a consistently high level; a "safe bet" when it comes to enquiries.'
'Lars Eckhoff: High level of commitment, experienced negotiator, pleasant to deal with.'
'Peter Endres: Represents us in all matters relating to the licensing of our new technology. His commitment and solution-oriented negotiation style are unique.'
'Empathetic, pragmatic advice tailored to the needs of the client.'
'The collaboration is characterized by a great deal of understanding for our fast-growing company and the corresponding growing pains. We support very innovative products for the industry, which requires a high level of technical and industry-specific understanding.'
Key clients
- Porsche
- Hanon
- Webasto
- Hapag Lloyd
- Coca-Cola
- Kärcher
- Alnatura
- Sennheiser
- Gardena / Husqvarna
- Gigaset
Work highlights
- Ongoing advice to Porsche on all commercial and procurement issues, including representation in the defense against supplier claims, including price adjustment requests and threatened delivery stops.
- Advising Kärcher on strategic cooperation with TTS Cleaning, including the preparation and negotiation of related cooperation agreements.
- Out-of-court representation of Hanon due to the premature termination of a complex supply relationship for automotive components due to the planned liquidation of two of the supplier's companies.
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
Other key lawyers
Gerald Gräfe; Robert Budde; Peter Endres; Ulrich Becker