Procurement and supply chain for retail businesses

A seamless supply chain and effective procurement policies are integral to the success of any business in the retail sector.

Our commercial team advises retail businesses on core business contracts, supply chain contracts, all aspects of direct and indirect procurement, outsourcing, contractual joint ventures and collaborative projects, and the appointment of dealers, agents and distributors worldwide.

We also have specialist experience advising on franchise agreements (including international master licences) and disputes when relationships break down. We act for a number of large, established brands including Grafenia Plc and Sweaty Mama – whom we have supported on their international expansion.

Supply chain disruption

One of the many impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic for retailers has been the disruption to supply chains, in some cases leading to disputes and/ or triggering contractual force majeure clauses. Many businesses operate to a lean “just in time” delivery system and do not have a lot of spare capacity built into their systems. Many retailers and wholesalers rely on an agile supply chain to be able to respond effectively to rapidly changing consumer demand for new or trending products. We advise our clients on supply chain contracts, ensuring that relevant force majeure protection is included and effective. When relationships do break down, our disputes teams are able to advise on the most suitable course of action to gain the best outcome for our clients.

Experience 

• Leading sportswear brand – Advising a leading sportswear brand on logistics and warehousing contracts. 
• La Tasca – Acting for La Tasca on its international franchising project. 
• Dunelm – Advising Dunelm on logistics outsourcing projects. 
• Denby Pottery – Advising Denby Pottery on manufacturing, licensing and online trading projects. 

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