Agency and distribution look similar and are treated very differently by the law.
A distributor buys and resells in its own name. An agent sells in your name and on your behalf.
Businesses that describe an arrangement as distribution while running it as agency can face a substantial and entirely unbudgeted costs on termination.
These agreements set the terms on which someone else brings in or fulfils your sales.
We help with:
- deciding which structure fits your commercial plan;
- commercial agency agreements and commission structures;
- distribution and reseller agreements; and
- terminating an existing arrangement and what it will cost.
We tell you which regime your arrangement really falls into, draft it so the paperwork and the practice match, and model the exit before you sign rather than after notice is given: commission on orders placed after termination, notice periods, post-termination restrictions, and what the statutory payment could look like.
For the wider commercial terms of selling through third parties, see Sale & Distribution Agreements.
Our Approach
Legal advice that makes running and growing your business easier.
We start with your business, not the law.
Before we open a document, we want to understand what you are trying to do commercially. The legal answer is only useful if it serves that.
We get to the point.
You get a clear view of what matters and what does not, in plain English, with the real risks separated from the noise.
We give you an answer.
Not a menu of options and a shrug. We tell you what we would do, why, and where there is a genuine judgment call for you to make.
We stay available.
Whether you work with us on a single project or on a subscription, we are here for the follow-up question. We would always rather you asked.
Ways of working together
Fixed-fee projects
A single, defined piece of work for an agreed fixed fee, communicated before we engage. Reviewing a contract, drafting your terms, handling a negotiation.
No surprises and no hidden fees
Flagship Subscription
Ares Access
Ongoing support on a fixed monthly subscription, for businesses that need commercial legal input regularly rather than as the occasional one-off.
- Dedicated lawyer
- Fixed monthly fees
- Commercial advice on demand
From £500 plus VAT per month
Legal Health Check
Fixed fee of £2,000 plus VAT
Any questions?
Phone: 02382 420035
