Retail & Leisure

We specialise in:

Unique retail formats (pop-up shops, concept stores):

Changing market trends lead to a relentless search for unique retail offerings. ‘Pop up’ shops are now a regular sight on the British high street. They are usually there to take advantage of seasonal trading such as the Christmas period or the summer. We work with clients on these annual temporary lettings, requiring concise documentation, a fast turn around and a clear vision of the numerous pitfalls.

Shopping centre units

Sherrards secures retail space for clients in well-known shopping centres. We go out of our way to develop strong relationships with the landlord and have an in-depth understanding of the practical applications of the documents and how the centres are managed. This approach combines our legal expertise with practical know-how. We are well acquainted with complex service charge arrangements and concepts such as turnover rent.

High street units

Many of our clients take retail space in desirable high street locations with the need for planning permission for change of use and/or initial tenant works to the premises. This often means a conditional agreement for lease, which requires careful drafting and negotiation. Often specific rights must be procured from the landlord to enable the premises to be fully operational. Identifying and then addressing these specific business needs is key to the project’s success.

Mergers, Acquisitions & Joint Ventures

Our mergers & acquisitions and joint venture expertise in the sector includes assisting buyers and sellers on all legal aspects of due diligence, drafting and negotiating sale and purchase agreements, joint venture or participation agreements, disclosure letters and ancillary documents, working closely with our property and retail and international teams.

Employment law

Our Employment team work with retail clients through all stages of the employment relationship. We understand the intricate workplace issues faced by organisations in the retail sector and appreciate that, commercial considerations are just as important as (if not more) the legal ones. Our experience covers the life-cycle of employment; from recruitment, contracts, retention, absence, performance, rewards, redundancy to TUPE, tribunals, disputes, disciplinary action, dismissal and discrimination.

Real Estate Litigation

Our Property Litigation team works with retail clients on the full range of issues from uncontested/contested lease renewals, from the removal of squatters to substantial dilapidation claims. We understand the sector and know that there is often far more behind the decisions making process than simply black letter law. Whilst we can take a robust stance and fight hard where necessary, we understand that a negotiated settlement on the best possible terms is often the right way forward for our retail clients.