Sectors
Retail & Luxury Brand Solicitors
Retail sector legal advice
Whatever your business within the retail sector, our retail lawyers understand this challenging market and work across a range of areas including e-commerce, corporate and commercial, intellectual property, commercial property, dispute resolution and employment law to help advise and provide solutions for your business. Our specialist lawyers act for a wide range of retail and leisure clients from high street retailers to online entities and luxury goods retailers.
We can help you with retail commercial property matters including commercial property conveyancing and commercial property disputes, protect your IP rights, manage your contractual relationships, incentivise staff, raise equity and deal with commercial disputes.
Our data protection solicitors can advise you on a range of data protection law issues, from what is covered by data protection, preventing breaches and violations to who needs to register, and following the principles in the Data Protection Act 2018.
Our dispute resolution, commercial and corporate teams can work together to resolve retail disputes and protect your contractual rights.
Our offices are in Sheffield, Birmingham, Cambridge and London if you need a meeting, but we typically work remotely to keep our overheads low which enables us to offer our innovative pricing packages.
What our retail solicitors do
Our retail solicitors are legal advisers to a variety of retailers and luxury brands. Our expert lawyers have vast experience in acquiring retailing businesses, protecting retail trade marks, branding and marketing, retailing online, recruiting and dismissing staff at all levels of seniority, and managing commercial property matters.
We provide cost-effective expert legal advice across a range of areas relevant to the retail industry:
Intellectual property
Our intellectual property solicitors have a strong track record helping retailers protect, exploit and enforce their intellectual property rights.
If you own or work for a retailer that is looking to protect their intellectual property, we can advise and support you with trade mark registration, design rights, copyright protection and domain name rights.
If you already have registered intellectual property rights and are looking to exploit them we can advise you on the licensing or sale (assignment) of your intellectual property, as well as collaboration agreements if you would like to work with other brands.
Finally, we help you enforce your intellectual property rights across the globe. We can help you identify intellectual property infringements and can help you stop infringers from damaging your brands reputation through the use of injunctions, cease and desist letters and takedown notices (if the infringement occurs on a ecommerce platform).
Commercial
Whether you require advice on commercial contracts relating to procurement, supply or manufacturing, franchising or agency and distribution agreements, we can help.
Corporate
We work with our retail clients on mergers and acquisitions and disposals of retail businesses, as well as shareholder arrangements, joint ventures and innovative methods of raising business finance, such as venture capital and private equity.
Data protection and privacy
In the increasingly large and complex e-marketplace we advise on data protection issues such as drafting policies or procedures, advising on data analytics, new media or data subject access requests.
Employment
We can advise your HR department and senior management on employment law issues, providing you with tailored employment contracts and policies and procedures for the retail industry, ad hoc advice on workforce issues and assistance with managing procedures relating to redundancy, performance management, sickness absence or disciplinary matters.
Commercial retail property
Whether this be advising commercial landlords on their property portfolios or tenants on leases in the retail sector, so that they can secure the best premises for their retail business. We have retail property solicitors ready to assist your business with pre-let agreements, lease renewals and assignments, whether contentious or non-contentious.
IT and commercial technology
We can advise on technology and e-commerce providing tailored terms and conditions and innovative solutions and strategies relating to the use of new technologies by retailers.
Legal advice for retail businesses
We understand the commercial issues involved in retail depends on the product and market involved, which is why we endeavour to understand both you, your products and your consumers.
We provide advice to entrepreneurs, companies and other retailers of fashion and clothing, food and drink, electronics, technology and consumer goods. Whether you are a crowdfunded start-up or a large multi-national with many stores, our dedicated team of specialists are adept at translating your needs into enforceable contracts.
Testimonials
What our clients say
It was difficult to find suitable support for my IP problem and such a relief to find Harper James Solicitors. Lindsay was fantastic at guiding me through the process and I couldn’t have been happier with the result.
Mariani Robinson
Founder,
Naturally Lady
One of the things that impresses me most about Harper James is the flexibility of the different packages they offer firms who require legal support. It is perfect match for growing start-ups like us who need expert advice at affordable prices.
Jennifer Young
Founder,
Jennifer Young Limited
It's very cost efficient and fast. I have enjoyed talking to everyone in the company as they are not only knowledgeable but can also relate to the situations that I need assistance with. Very happy!
Kerem Sozugecer
Founder & CEO,
LeftBrain Technology
As a young company, getting the right advice regarding staff, contracts, policies and procedures can be crucial. Harper James delivers this for us with professional, expert lawyers across all our desired areas, who are always able to provide all the support we need and more. This has enabled us to concentrate more on growing and developing our business.
Imogen Wethered
CEO,
Qudini
...very efficient and helpful, especially given that it was difficult logistically with most of the directors away!
Adam Fraser-Harris
Finance Director,
Blow Ltd
Our solicitor has been very helpful. Quick and efficient.
Vincent Sitwell
Director,
Kolibri Drinks
Harper James have become a vital part of our business. We get quality advice from experienced solicitors at prices that other firms do not appear to be able to match.
Veejay Lingiah
CEO,
Flash Sticks
Commitment, value for money, a handle on expenses
Yolanda Elena May
Co-Founder,
Sistaco
Prior to joining the Enable Scheme, I was attempting to manage all the firms’ legal issues myself and finding it a huge struggle. Being part of the Enable scheme allows Mama Bamboo to access legal advice at an affordable rate. Something which is always worry for a small firm when considering seeking legal support. The scheme allows us to protect our business whilst we focus on our growth plans.
Laura Crawford
CEO and founder,
Mama Bamboo
The team are responsive to my requests for support and the feedback and help that I have received from the legal team has always been well presented and thought through. The quality of support and the flexibility with which it is provided (monthly payments), is perfect for my business.
Peter Denton
Director,
Enso Equestrian
Kevin was great at understanding what my needs were and responded in a timely manner every time. It was great to talk to someone who understood our situation and made the transaction seamless between the old and new contracts
Simon Cox
Director,
Rothley Ltd
The teams have been incredibly efficient. They're not only easy to communicate with, but also highly knowledgeable, and consistently able to meet even tight deadlines. What truly sets Harper James apart is the access we have to a comprehensive range of legal experts – spanning employment law, commercial law, and data protection – all within an affordable subscription model that offers greater flexibility. This allows us to implement processes and put appropriate measures in place, without the typical charging constraints of a traditional law firm.
Raj Batra
Founder,
Diistil
Commercial Partner, Rob Cobley, helped us do the necessary due diligence and guided us on which online age verification solution offered us the best legal protection. We needed to eliminate any reputational risk and wanted a ‘gold-standard’ solution that set us apart from any competitors. Getting it right with all the 'belts and braces' gave us comfort because there are several different providers who achieve age verification in different ways. Navigating and implementing the solution was made possible with Rob’s help.
Raj Batra
Founder,
Diistil
The employment team, particularly Sean Walsh, has been instrumental in providing real-time advice on the challenges that arise with a rapidly growing team
Raj Batra
Founder,
Diistil
The work on the influencer contract by Julia Ellis was fantastic. Her expertise and meticulous approach made the process smooth and efficient. Her dedication and hard work were greatly appreciated.
Abi Nightingale
Head of Product Marketing,
Widgit Software Limited
I like that I can communicate with Harper James on my own terms. We have access to all the legal services we need under one subscription plan, so there’s no need for us to look elsewhere. It’s great having a one-stop solution that’s both efficient and cost-effective.
Jojo Regan
Co-founder,
Manors Golf
Mairead worked hard re-drafting an Licence Agreement for us and we really appreciated all her help and patience with us.
Megan Leanne Howard
Founder,
The One With The Diamond Art
As always, the Harper James team is responsive and thorough. Always a joy to work with. In addition to your diverse and high-quality expertise, we appreciate the quality of the communication and management around dates and deliverables. It helps us manage expectations and plan accordingly. You seamlessly operate as a natural extension of our team.
Larisa Sheckler
Head of Global Operations,
Whisk at Foodient Ltd
It was difficult to find suitable support for my IP problem and such a relief to find Harper James Solicitors. Lindsay was fantastic at guiding me through the process and I couldn’t have been happier with the result.
Mariani Robinson
Founder,
Naturally Lady
One of the things that impresses me most about Harper James is the flexibility of the different packages they offer firms who require legal support. It is perfect match for growing start-ups like us who need expert advice at affordable prices.
Jennifer Young
Founder,
Jennifer Young Limited
It's very cost efficient and fast. I have enjoyed talking to everyone in the company as they are not only knowledgeable but can also relate to the situations that I need assistance with. Very happy!
Kerem Sozugecer
Founder & CEO,
LeftBrain Technology
As a young company, getting the right advice regarding staff, contracts, policies and procedures can be crucial. Harper James delivers this for us with professional, expert lawyers across all our desired areas, who are always able to provide all the support we need and more. This has enabled us to concentrate more on growing and developing our business.
Imogen Wethered
CEO,
Qudini
...very efficient and helpful, especially given that it was difficult logistically with most of the directors away!
Adam Fraser-Harris
Finance Director,
Blow Ltd
Our solicitor has been very helpful. Quick and efficient.
Vincent Sitwell
Director,
Kolibri Drinks
Harper James have become a vital part of our business. We get quality advice from experienced solicitors at prices that other firms do not appear to be able to match.
Veejay Lingiah
CEO,
Flash Sticks
Commitment, value for money, a handle on expenses
Yolanda Elena May
Co-Founder,
Sistaco
Prior to joining the Enable Scheme, I was attempting to manage all the firms’ legal issues myself and finding it a huge struggle. Being part of the Enable scheme allows Mama Bamboo to access legal advice at an affordable rate. Something which is always worry for a small firm when considering seeking legal support. The scheme allows us to protect our business whilst we focus on our growth plans.
Laura Crawford
CEO and founder,
Mama Bamboo
The team are responsive to my requests for support and the feedback and help that I have received from the legal team has always been well presented and thought through. The quality of support and the flexibility with which it is provided (monthly payments), is perfect for my business.
Peter Denton
Director,
Enso Equestrian
Kevin was great at understanding what my needs were and responded in a timely manner every time. It was great to talk to someone who understood our situation and made the transaction seamless between the old and new contracts
Simon Cox
Director,
Rothley Ltd
The teams have been incredibly efficient. They're not only easy to communicate with, but also highly knowledgeable, and consistently able to meet even tight deadlines. What truly sets Harper James apart is the access we have to a comprehensive range of legal experts – spanning employment law, commercial law, and data protection – all within an affordable subscription model that offers greater flexibility. This allows us to implement processes and put appropriate measures in place, without the typical charging constraints of a traditional law firm.
Raj Batra
Founder,
Diistil
Commercial Partner, Rob Cobley, helped us do the necessary due diligence and guided us on which online age verification solution offered us the best legal protection. We needed to eliminate any reputational risk and wanted a ‘gold-standard’ solution that set us apart from any competitors. Getting it right with all the 'belts and braces' gave us comfort because there are several different providers who achieve age verification in different ways. Navigating and implementing the solution was made possible with Rob’s help.
Raj Batra
Founder,
Diistil
The employment team, particularly Sean Walsh, has been instrumental in providing real-time advice on the challenges that arise with a rapidly growing team
Raj Batra
Founder,
Diistil
The work on the influencer contract by Julia Ellis was fantastic. Her expertise and meticulous approach made the process smooth and efficient. Her dedication and hard work were greatly appreciated.
Abi Nightingale
Head of Product Marketing,
Widgit Software Limited
I like that I can communicate with Harper James on my own terms. We have access to all the legal services we need under one subscription plan, so there’s no need for us to look elsewhere. It’s great having a one-stop solution that’s both efficient and cost-effective.
Jojo Regan
Co-founder,
Manors Golf
Mairead worked hard re-drafting an Licence Agreement for us and we really appreciated all her help and patience with us.
Megan Leanne Howard
Founder,
The One With The Diamond Art
As always, the Harper James team is responsive and thorough. Always a joy to work with. In addition to your diverse and high-quality expertise, we appreciate the quality of the communication and management around dates and deliverables. It helps us manage expectations and plan accordingly. You seamlessly operate as a natural extension of our team.
Larisa Sheckler
Head of Global Operations,
Whisk at Foodient Ltd
Lawyers with retail sector experience
At Harper James Solicitors, we advise a number of innovative and growing retailers, including fashion brands, luxury brands, jewellers, beauty brands and perfumers, and many other designers and sellers of consumer goods.
Our solicitors have all been recruited from top 100 law firms or international businesses, and come with a wealth of experience and expertise in all areas of the retail sector. Our retail team spans several legal practice areas, so whatever legal advice you need, we have a business solicitor with retail experience to deal with your issue quickly and cost-effectively.
Many of our solicitors have deep and varied experience in the retail sector. Just some of their previous retail legal work includes:
- Acting on product liability claims for a range of retailers, from central heating boilers to children’s toys.
- Advising on product recalls, in relation to pan-European motor vehicle recalls.
- Advising on contractual issues relating to the purchase and chartering of luxury motor yachts.
- Acting for a fashion retailer selling via QVC home shopping channel.
- Acting for a high-end shoe designer to enforce intellectual property rights against an infringer.
- Acting for various retailers and landlords of retail property.
Pricing and service plans
Legal support designed
to fit your business needs
Our three transparent service plans are designed to give you the widest possible access to high-quality legal advice, whatever the size and nature of your business:
Engage
Flexible access to senior solicitors at highly competitive rates
An alternative to our subscription plans, offering access to full service legal expertise on a project-by-project basis.
Enable
Purpose built legal support for start-ups and smaller businesses
Monthly subscription plan for £215 per month, with £145 monthly credit and access to all legal services at 50% discount on our Standard Rates.
Extend
Comprehensive legal partnership for established businesses
Fully account managed and scalable annual subscription plan with support from a curated team of partners and senior solicitors, with up to 34% discount on our Standard Rates.
