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Distributor Law

Whether you are:

a UK manufacturer thinking of setting up a network of distributors overseas
an overseas supplier looking to appoint a distributor in the UK
a supplier or distributor concerned to know where you stand in law
a supplier or distributor looking to end your distributorship agreement

our distributorlaw team can help you achieve your legal objectives.

For suppliers and distributors alike there is no specific EU law that protects distributors in a way which is comparable to the European Agents Directive which protects commercial agents. Under English law the starting point for suppliers and distributors is the law of contract which applies to all businesses. However, it is also the case that a series of court decisions in recent years has begun to affect the legal position. Could it be that the English courts are determined to rebalance the relationship between supplier and distributor because there is no such specific law?

The Fox Williams’ distributorlaw team are a dedicated group of lawyers who have an in-depth understanding of the relationship between supplier and distributor. We have a wealth of experience in this area and routinely act for both suppliers and distributors.

The team provides specialist technical expertise in relation to the legal rights and obligations of suppliers and distributors. We also provide practical, commercial advice for suppliers and distributors on all aspects of the distributorship relationship, from revising distributorship agreements to bringing proceedings upon termination.

We tackle difficult issues head on and suggest realistic answers.

These briefings and guides give an insight into how the distributorship relationship is governed and how contract law and applicable case law are determining the future of the relationship. The information contained will enable you to keep up-to-date with recent developments and provide you with key information on the establishment, operation and termination of distributorship agreements.