Retail and brand

At a strategic level companies are constantly considering how to enhance the value of their brands, and make their distribution systems more effective, efficient and profitable. Most companies are seeking growth and business expansion, and are constantly evaluating their channels to market. Distribution objectives need to be matched with available capital, so there is a need not just to consider direct expansion but options such as joint venturing, licensing and franchising. The legal and business risks associated with these decisions are intertwined and complex.

Norton Rose Australia understands the importance of speaking in terms clients understand, and supplementing legal expertise with commercial acumen and strong industry knowledge. The Retail and Brands Group focuses on helping clients develop their brands and distribution systems, drawing on our particular expertise and industry knowledge in retailing, competition law and franchising to assist with M&A and private equity transactions, provide general commercial and corporate counsel and assist with dispute resolution. Areas of particular focus for the Retail and Brands Group are:-

• Providing strategic advice on intellectual property protection, enforcement and commercialisation;
• Assisting clients with distribution strategy, international trade and network development, including advising on international transaction documentation, trading terms, customs and tariffs, dumping and anti-trust issues;
• Assisting clients involved in or considering franchising or licensing by providing strategic advice, drafting documentation, dealing with regulatory issues (particularly in markets where franchising is regulated) and handling disputes;
• Advising on competition law and consumer protection issues;
• International arbitration, mediation and cross-border dispute resolution.

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