Food & Drink at Charles Russell Speechlys

Food & Beverage is a competitive sector characterised by activity and innovation.

It is also one impacted upon most by economic change, particularly prevalent throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

The sector is constantly evolving, as the growth of digital and online platforms enables businesses to develop strategies for customer engagement and enhanced experiences. Those with the foresight and flexibility to adapt to the evolving market, particularly post-COVID 19, will be in a prime position to succeed in the years ahead.

We can support you through your growth journey and the Food & Beverage sector is one where we offer market leading sector expertise in a range of specialist areas.

We are proud to work alongside a range of businesses within Food & Beverage, from developing brands to established household names, including restaurants, pubs and bars. But one thing remains the same; we get to know each and every one of you.

Taking a personal approach to our work allows us to look ahead, and think creatively about how we can best support you with the unique challenges and opportunities you will face in the future, particularly across technology and food regulation.

If you have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, or would like to talk to our team about any other issues facing your business, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Food Regulation

The market is highly competitive; a reputation is hard won but easily lost. The risks to businesses from allergen failings are not only reputational, but may also result in civil and criminal liability. Food Regulation is a particular area of expertise for our team. With our experience of handling matters where incidents have occurred and systems in place have been tested, we are one of the few law firms able to review current allergen protocols and make recommendations to mitigate risk against potential exposure and failings and to be able to manage that risk where issues do arise.

Online

Technology, and adopting a digital presence, is an area dramatically impacting the Food & Beverage sector as customer demand grows for businesses to provide an online offering. An optimised online presence will play an important part of the success and failure of traditional business models, particularly during, and post, COVID-19. Our technology specialists will help you take your business online, including advice on increased data protection responsibilities, website and apps. We will provide continued support as you take advantage of the new opportunities a digital presence can bring.

Hospitality, Restaurants & Catering

The Hospitality sector has experienced considerable change as consumer attitudes have moved towards the desire for a more personalised offering, taking advantage of the benefits of technology. Business Leisure, or ‘Bleisure’ travel has also opened a range of opportunities catering towards the shorter stay, digitally connected customer. We can support you as you take advantage of the evolving hospitality market.

We support businesses ranging from hotels and membership clubs, to restaurants and bars, to live sporting and entertainment events, advising on all their needs. We understand the need to be flexible with seasonal staff and the necessity for a seamless supply chain to meet the increasing expectations of the modern customer.

Our team includes lawyers with a wealth of experience working with hospitality brands, supporting on the full range of matters to address the above, as well as brand protection and food safety.

Meet the team

Some of our clients