Thomsons Lawyers

Franchising is a fast growing and dynamic sector of the Australian economy and presents a range of opportunities for establishing profitable and exciting businesses. However, the legal framework within which franchised businesses operate is complex and with these opportunities come risks that must be carefully identified and managed to ensure success.

What we can do for you

Although there are now over 50,000 franchise systems operating in Australia there continue to be numerous commercial, legal and regulatory challenges that impact on the successful conduct of a franchise business.

To meet these challenges, franchisors and franchisees need commercially astute and pragmatic advice from lawyers who understand franchising and have the essential experience and expertise.

Thomsons Lawyers has that understanding and expertise. We work with franchisors as a strategic partner to improve overall network performance.

We manage compliance issues and address the legal considerations that contribute to franchise network efficiency, profitability and expansion.

Our team includes members of the Franchising Council of Australia and lawyers who are registered as mediators under the Franchising Code.

Franchise expertise

Thomson Playford Cutlers focuses exclusively on achieving commercial outcomes for its clients.

Our specialists have provided straightforward advice and practical solutions to franchisors and master franchisees for more than 30 years. We have extensive first-hand experience of the complex demands upon franchisors.

Our franchising experts take a holistic, proactive approach to your legal needs. We provide expertise in all areas where you may require support.

Our key services

The range of legal matters that must be addressed in establishing and maintaining a franchise system or individual franchised business is without limit.

The legal services we provide in franchising include:

• Preparation of Franchise Agreements, Disclosure Documents and related system documentation

• Developing compliance systems and providing Trade Practices and Competition Law advice

• Advising on, protecting and enforcing intellectual property rights

• Preparing and advising on leasing and occupancy issues

• Advising on and establishing appropriate business and tax structures

• Resolving disputes through mediation and the conduct of litigation

Global know-how

Thomsons Lawyers has prepared many Australian master agreements for US and other international franchisors.

We also assist Australian franchisors in obtaining master franchises from the US. Our experienced team has helped many Australian franchisors expand their businesses overseas.

Our clients

Thomsons Lawyers works with many well-known franchises, including:

TPF Restaurants Australia (Hungry Jack’s), a major Australian oil company, Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited, Chrysler, Hyundai, AGL Retail Energy, Kwik Kopy, Fasta Pasta, The Cheesecake Shop, Fellas Gifts, EzyDVD, 24 Seven Vending, Jenny Craig, Healthy Life, Fitness First, Laing & Simmons, Raine & Horne, and Oporto Chicken & Burgers.