Commercial, Tech & Data

Franchising

Expert franchise legal advice and support.

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Specialist franchise lawyers

Franchising is a powerful tool for businesses with ambitions to grow. A successful franchising model can unlock the hidden value in a franchisor’s brand and know-how developed over many years and pair it with a franchisee’s enthusiasm and knowledge of a certain market or audience. Without a doubt, franchising has changed the face of the franchise industry across various sectors.

With an established brand, an intelligent operating model, and a marketable product or service, franchising can succeed in multiple sectors and markets – with the right legal framework and advice.

Our services

Our expert franchise solicitors provide support in:

  • Advising on whether the franchising model is right for you.
  • Drafting franchise agreements and associated documents for franchisors, including confidentiality agreements, intent to proceed agreements, and deposit agreements.
  • Reviewing franchise agreements and documentation for franchisors to ensure they align with current franchise law. Our franchise lawyers can draft new franchise agreements from scratch or update existing ones to ensure they remain fit for purpose.
  • Bringing or defending clients in franchise disputes in the courts.
  • Resolving franchise disputes through alternative dispute resolution. Our franchise legal advice includes guiding both franchise owners and franchisors through effective resolution strategies.
  • Advising franchisors on international expansion and structuring franchise businesses to ensure regulatory compliance across multiple jurisdictions.

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Why choose Foot Anstey?

Our franchise lawyers have significant experience supporting both franchisors and franchise owners. Our experts provide comprehensive legal advice to help franchise businesses navigate regulatory challenges and establish strong franchise agreements.

With our deep expertise in franchise law, we can advise on the advantages and disadvantages of franchising as a route to market. Our specialist sector expertise ensures that we provide practical and relevant legal support tailored to your industry and sector. Our clients include both franchisors and franchisees ranging from start-ups to large international companies.

We also work alongside franchising consultants, allowing us to provide a full service that facilitates and supports your journey in setting up a franchise business. Our franchise experts coordinate further commercial advice as needed, including employment law, data protection, and commercial property matters.

Our recent experience

Meals franchise

We acted on behalf of the buyer for the buyout of a franchise business, which included the negotiated termination of a franchise agreement by mutual consent.

Secondhand retail franchisee

We acted on behalf of the buyer for the buyout of a franchise business, which included the negotiated termination of a franchise agreement by mutual consent.

Transport industry franchises

All aspects of transport industry franchises principally in the rail sector for major rail operators.

Suite of template agreements

Preparing the suite of template agreements (including deposit agreement and franchise agreement) to set up a new franchise business – often working alongside franchise consultants.

Advising Franchisees

Advising franchisees on the interpretation of restrictive covenants within their franchise agreement.

UK newspaper publishing group

A major UK newspaper publishing group in relation to the republication of classified adverts as an annual supplement, and the termination of an advertising franchise.

Land Rover Jaguar dealership

Land Rover Jaguar Dealership – acted on the purchase of development land at Matford Green where a combined Land Rover Jaguar dealership will constructed in line with the franchisors requirements.

Italian fandwich franchise

A Private Equity firm on a venture capital investment into Sfilatino, an Italian sandwich franchise.

Helston Garages

Assisting national Garages Group, Helston Garages, with 37 franchised dealerships turning over in excess of  £580m with all real estate needs including both site occupation and acquisition, portfolio management / restructuring, site disposal, planning, construction, and refinance needs.

International restaurant chain

One of our team members was seconded to this large franchisor to assist in updating its international franchise documentation across the EU and ensuring that all procedures were followed.

Retailer dispute resolution

Our franchise solicitors successfully resolved a dispute between our client and a large international franchisor over the terms of the franchise agreement and how to terminate it.

Our people

Our franchise lawyers have extensive experience in assisting clients in delivering their franchising models. We have advised numerous franchise businesses over the years, helping them draft and refine their franchise agreements. Our experience spans a variety of industries, including restaurants, cafes, driving schools, delicatessens, drain maintenance and repair, antenatal care, garden services, and camping sites.

With a strong understanding of franchise law, we ensure that franchise businesses receive the right legal framework for success.

Meet our team

Key contacts

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What do our clients say?

“(Foot Anstey) are prompt and professional with their responses, and the team is plain speaking and frank about possible legal outcomes.”

Legal 500 2024

“(Foot Anstey) are extremely approachable and relate well to all levels, from individuals to large SMEs with regards to their extensive franchise services and knowledge.”

Legal 500 2024

“The team has continued to be highly responsive to all projects and requests. They fully understand the specific demands and protocols of franchising and therefore the advice and guidance provided has consistently proved to have been highly effective and reliable. Foot Anstey remains our preferred legal partner because the standard of service is first class.”

Legal 500 2022

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