Managing the End of Franchise Relationships
Franchise relationships do not always continue indefinitely. Agreements may expire at the end of their term, end early due to a breach, or conclude by mutual agreement when commercial objectives change. The exit process can be detailed and sensitive, involving strict legal obligations, the transfer or handover of assets, the return of confidential information, and the need to preserve the integrity of the brand throughout the transition.
We support both franchisors and franchisees in managing terminations confidently, compliantly, and with a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities, helping to reduce risk and maintain stability for the wider network.
Support For Franchisors
We assist franchisors with the practical and legal steps involved in bringing a franchise relationship to an end. Our services include:
- Advice on valid grounds for termination under the franchise agreement.
- Guidance on managing the termination process to reduce legal and operational risk.
- Support with enforcing post termination restrictions.
- Assistance with recovery franchise assets such as intellectual property, equipment and customer data.
- Negotiating asset purchase agreements when acquiring the franchisee business.
- Support with valuing franchise businesses for acquisition.
- Assistance with managing customer transition and brand continuity.
- Advice on dealing with ongoing lease obligations and property matters.
- Support with handling disputes arising from termination.
- Assistance with reselling the franchise territory to a new franchisee.
Support For Franchisee
We help franchisees understand their rights, protect their investment, and manage exit obligations. Our services include:
- Advice on your termination rights and the franchisor’s grounds for termination.
- Support with challenging wrongful or unfair termination.
- Negotiating exit terms and settlement agreements.
- Protecting your investment through an asset sale to the franchisor or a third party.
- Support with valuation of goodwill, equipment, and other assets.
- Managing handover obligations and avoiding breach claims.
- Assistance with de-branding requirements and post-termination restrictions.
- Handling your remaining lease obligations.
- Guidance on preserving customer relationships within legal constraints.
- Exploring alternative business opportunities post-franchise.
Why Work With Us?
Real World Perspective
Our in-house experience means we’ve lived franchising and understand all aspects of a franchise business. We understand the pressures franchisors face in protecting their systems and the concerns franchisees have about safeguarding their investment.
Holistic Advice
Your franchise agreement does not exist in isolation. We consider your business strategy, market conditions, and long term goals to provide advice that supports your bigger picture and provide advice in the context of your being in the franchise sector.
More Than 20 Years of Experience
With two decades of experience in the franchise sector we have seen what works, what does not, and how to anticipate issues before they become problems.
Approachable Counsel
If you are new to franchising, understanding how the law impacts your business can feel overwhelming. Whether you are new or experienced, we explain matters clearly, answer your questions thoroughly, and make ourselves accessible throughout our work together.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re launching a franchise system, expanding to multiple units, or considering your first franchise investment, let’s talk about how we can help. Why not schedule a consultation to discuss your needs and explore how we can work together.
Please call us or email and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
We aim to keep legal jargon to a minimum and guide you through the process in a manner that is easy to understand.
Our highly-skilled solicitors offer tailored, strategic solutions to even the most complex matters, ensuring you receive the guidance and support you need.
We will be by your side throughout every stage of the process and will provide you with regular updates and advice along the way.
We communicate thoroughly with you from the outset to ensure that we fully understand your individual needs. This allows us to accurately quote for your matter leaving you without any unexpected surprises and fees further down the line.
We provide our clients with a concise and transparent breakdown of costs from the outset of the matter and throughout any subsequent stages. This enables you to build faith and trust in us early on to form a lasting relationship.
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