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Retail & Consumer Goods

The retail and consumer space is tough, competitive, dynamic and increasingly regulated. As one of the world’s oldest and most populous economic sectors, businesses are entitled to expect that their legal advisors are well versed in the answers to common problems. Our clients require legal support served up to them in terms of “yes or no” and “if yes, then how”. We deliver exactly that.

We offer world-class support specific to the retail and consumer sector that is unparalleled in terms of its accessibility. Being accessible allows us to effectively stay side by side with our clients (both big and small) and work in real time, supporting them in the realisation of their objectives.

Our knowledge and expertise in this sector cover all types of manufacturing arrangements, supply and distribution chains and business expansions including franchising, multi-tier licensing and multi-unit area developments.

We also advise on all matters relevant to this sector including distribution, franchising, IP protection and commercialisation, brand management, commercial agencies and related contractual and relationship management issues.

Our offering takes into account the macro dynamics at play in the sector. We recognise that franchisors, distributors, retailers, wholesalers and/or manufacturers, all need to increasingly exploit digital innovations in market data and consumer preferences. Alongside our formidable TMT practice, we are able to assist our clients successfully leverage digitization all parts of their business planning and development.

TRANSACTIONAL

  • Franchising
  • Distribution
  • Agencies
  • Manufacturing and Supply
  • B-to-B & B-to-C
  • Commercial Representation
  • Wholesale and Retail Sale of Goods
  • E-commerce

SPECIALIST

  • Master & Sub Franchising
  • Area Development
  • Unit Franchising
  • Supply Arrangements
  • Product Development
  • F&B Outlet & Retail Operations
  • Corporate Identity, Branding & Retail Signage
  • Labelling Requirements
  • Corporate Structuring & Ownership
  • Terminations & Renewals

DAILIES

  • Precedents, Templates & Contract Review
  • Contract Negotiation & Management
  • MOUs/LOIs
  • Consumer Protection
  • IP Licensing Regulations
  • Compliance & Due Diligence
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Simon Bryan

Managing Director / Partner - GLS Law Firm

UAE / Singapore

+971 (0)4 333 1002

simon.bryan@gls.global
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Arianna Mariani

Associate

Italy

+39 0669941510

info@gls.global

Indicative Experience

Middle East: Managed the corporate and commercial restructuring and renewal of McDonald’s multi franchising, supply and distribution operations across the Middle East jurisdictions.

Europe: Advised Associated British Food on its acquisition of the European yeast business of GB Plange group, a leading provider of baking ingredients in the European market.

Europe: Assisted Supergroup with regard to the lease agreements of 7 properties in Belgium.

Europe: Advised Kerry with the acquisition of Dera Group, a savoury ingredients business.

Europe: Assisted Marks & Spencer with the negotiation of the lease agreement with the property developer Prowinko for their Brussels store at Toison D’or.

UK: Acted for General Universal Stores (GUS) in relation to its disposal of two of its subsidiaries, Highway Vehicle Management Limited and General Guarantee Finance Limited.

South Africa: Advised New Look on its €100m super senior revolving credit facility and issue of £900m senior and senior secured notes.

Spain: Advised Antolin on its €200m amendment and restatement of multi-tranche facility agreement and issue of £400m senior secured notes.