With New Zealand boasting the highest proportion of franchises per capita in the world, franchising is a familiar business model for many businesses, whether expanding domestically, operating overseas or for international brands entering the New Zealand market.

Tompkins Wake's franchising law experts have significant experience acting for franchisors and franchisees, tailoring our approach to reflect the often unique and complex nature of franchise relationships.

We've worked across a wide range of industries, including food & beverage, retail, hospitality, personal and professional services, developing franchising models and have built longstanding relationships with some of the country's most well-known and high profile franchisors. 

Franchise business models can present unique legal and commercial issues with business laws and franchise-specific regulations which vary across jurisdictions (country to country). Our global connection as the exclusive New Zealand member of Multilaw, an elite legal network, ensures we can support clients wherever they chose to operate or establish business relationships.

Our multi-disciplinary approach provides access to experience and expertise across Tompkins Wake, including specialists in banking and finance, intellectual property, commercial property and litigation to ensure our clients have access to the specialist skills and advice they require.

Our work for franchisors covers all aspects of the commercial arrangements required for franchising, including:

• Acquisitions and disposals
• Structuring franchise models
• Creating franchise agreements
• Leasing and licensing of franchised premises
• Employment law and health and safety considerations for franchisors
• Appointments and termination of franchisees
• Intellectual property rights, protection of key brands, including securing trade mark registrations
• Managing franchise disputes

Areas of expertise:

Commercial Contracts
Commercial Property Transactions
Employment Law
Health and Safety
Shareholder Agreements
Shareholder Disputes
Trade Mark and Brand Strategy
Commercial Disputes
Intellectual Property