Franchise Solicitors

To give your new venture the greatest chance of success, it is important that you get the right advice and assistance at the outset - whether you have a successful business model which is appropriate for franchising or an idea for a pilot scheme that you would like to franchise in the long term.

Our experienced franchising solicitors can draft and advise on:

• Licence agreements (for pilot schemes) –are a good way for franchisors to test the market and operate quasi-franchises whilst establishing a franchise network.
• Franchise agreements and renewals – franchise agreements form the foundations of a franchise network. They set out the terms you are engaging with a third party. Your franchise agreement must protect your intellectual property rights, confidential information and method of operation, as these will all be provided to franchisees for them to run their franchise business.
• Commitment deeds – such agreements tend to be put in place where a franchisor has found an appropriate franchisee, but where the parties may wish to delay entering into a franchise agreement whilst appropriate business premises for the franchise business to operate from are secured.
• Confidentiality agreements – these are commonly used to ensure the franchisor’s confidential information that may be disclosed to a potential franchisee as part of the preliminary discussions but before the parties have entered into a formal franchise agreement.
• Intellectual property licences – these are licences which grant a third party the right to use certain intellectual property rights belonging to another (usually the Franchisors or its parent company) for certain purposes (i.e. the operation, marketing and promotion of the franchisee’s business).
• Ongoing Documentation Updates: Ensure your franchise documents remain compliant with the latest legislation, case law, and the BFA’s Code of Ethical Conduct.

As we are a full-service offering, our commercial team works closely with and draws on the expertise of the solicitors from our Commercial Property Team, Employment Team and Dispute Resolution Team.

Ensuring you have all the relevant advice and assistance for your franchise operation, from sourcing premises to engaging employees and handling potential disputes with franchisees. Our specialists can:

• Review intellectual property portfolios and advise on the steps to take to protect your intellectual property.
• Advise on the most appropriate corporate structure for your franchise operation.
• Advise and assist with equity finance-raising exercises or debt finance.
• Assist with purchasing or leasing commercial premises, including advising on and drafting head leases and sub-leases.
• Advise on business processes, procedures, data protection, employment contracts, handbooks and policies.

• Partner-Led Service with Practical Advice: We offer top-tier commercial legal guidance directly from experienced partners. Our approach is client-focused, ensuring clear, concise, and constructive advice throughout the process, all in line with the British Franchise Association (BFA) Code of Ethics.
• Proactive, Efficient, and Client-Centered: Our large and responsive commercial team meets deadlines and provides tailored solutions, working closely with clients to ensure business operations align with their goals and costs.
• City-Quality Service at Regional Prices: Enjoy high-quality legal services, including franchising expertise, at competitive regional rates.
• Comprehensive, Full-Service Support: Our commercial team works seamlessly with our Dispute Resolution, Employment, and Commercial Property departments, offering you a complete range of services and advice for your franchise journey.
• Top-Tier Recognition and Trust: Ranked as a Top Tier law firm by the Legal 500 for seven years and recognised as a Top 200 Law Firm in 2022, our team’s reputation reflects our commitment to excellence.
• Transparent Pricing and Regular Updates: We provide upfront cost estimates and keep you informed with regular cost updates, ensuring no surprises.
• Efficient Communication Across Teams: Operating from a one-site office, we ensure smooth, effective communication to keep your matter progressing seamlessly.
• Technology-Driven Excellence: Leveraging the latest technology, we work efficiently to ensure excellent service and advice, no matter where you’re located.