Consumer & retail

Currently, COVID-19 is presenting a range of challenges and concerns for businesses operating in this sector. Cost control and business preservation have quickly replaced growth and expansion considerations, in unprecedented circumstances. We are supporting clients on a full range of issues including understanding the government relief schemes available to them, and facilitating changes to their workforce, competition policies, commercial contracts, supply chain and real estate. You can read more here about some of the areas of impact, associated legal issues and how businesses can navigate them.

COVID-19 aside the retail industry is arguably the sector most affected by the online revolution and tech disrupters. Coupled with huge shifts in consumer focus through social media, provenance and sustainability concerns and the radical changes in the way people work in the gig economy, the pace of change is unprecedented. The need for businesses to innovate has never been more critical.

We’re helping companies adapt to these changes and innovate so that their businesses are ready for the future. Our international team advises 32 of the world’s top 50 most valuable brands.

We regularly advise businesses on industry issues, such as innovative use of technology and data, how to tackle infringement and counterfeit goods, data breaches, reputation management, labelling, licensing and franchising, supply chain management, environment and sustainability. We support businesses expanding into new markets (often utilising our network of international offices), as well as domestic growth for both ecommerce platforms and stores. We advise at all stages of a company's lifecycle, from seed funding to major and expansion into new markets (often utilising our network of international offices). We advise businesses at all stages on their lifecycle, from seed funding to major transactions and corporate restructurings.

With detailed knowledge of the retail sector, our market insights, original solutions and legal advice are shaped by current trends in the market. Clients value our collaborative approach. We're more than just their lawyers; we're trusted and valued colleagues.