The Amsterdam-based commercial, competition and trade group at Kennedy Van der Laan stands out for its expertise in franchising, distribution and litigation for international retail, manufacturing and consumer goods clients. Practice head Martine de Koning is well-respected as a leading specialist in international franchising, distribution and agency agreements. She is a strong litigator and assists clients across fashion, retail, manufacturing, hospitality and healthcare. The practice is regularly sought out for its skills in Dutch and EU competition law, advising clients on compliance, abuse of dominance, joint ventures and a myriad of other issues. Annemieke van der Beek focuses on competition law issues related to payment services, manufacturing and retail sectors. Franchise and commercial contracts expert Jelle Blom is well-versed in drafting and negotiating complex international agreements, while Isabel van Tuyll van Serooskerken is the go-to for cross-border and domestic litigation. Renske Sinke is noted for her expertise in commercial matters related to supply chains, distribution, franchise, agency and logistics.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘They are knowledgeable, helpful, and easy to work with. They know the law but also are commercially savvy and know how to adapt their expertise to the needs of the case.’
‘Martine de Koning is a tour de force. She adds value to a case and always has great insights. Very easy to work with. Isabel van Tuyll van Serooskerken is sharp and quick on her feet.’
‘The commercial & international trade team is top class in this field because they combine excellent knowledge of the EU and Dutch regulatory framework for consumers, competition and products with a lot of market experience. They are leading for example in matters pertaining to digital commerce, product recalls, sustainability, greenwashing, advertising, loyalty schemes and promotions.’
‘The team is very flexible, dedicated and efficient. Martine de Koning, Isabel van Tuyll van Serooskerken & Jelle Blom guarantee in-depth, practical and straightforward advice with fast turnaround times.’
‘Martine de Koning is highly knowledgeable on franchise and distribution agreements, within the Netherlands and abroad. She plays a vital role within the competition law advice within our sector.’
‘Both Martine de Koning and Jelle Blom are outstanding practitioners, in particular with respect to franchising and retail.’
Key clients
- Nike
- Converse
- Marriott & Starwood
- Hilton
- Beter Bed
- Kvik
- Azerion
- VodafoneZiggo
- Greenpeace
- Polaroid
Work highlights
Represented Stitching Bureau Krediet Registratie in a successful higher appeal procedure dispute with its former secretary of disputes committee.
Represented Azerion in a conflict with its partner Bidstack Ltd.
Represented Nike in several contracting projects, creating end-to-end sourcing solutions.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Martine de Koning
Other key lawyers
Annemieke van der Beek; Jelle Blom; Isabel van Tuyll van Serooskerken; Renske Sinke