Franchise

• Gibson Sheat is a leading franchise practice in the Wellington region
• Our specialist franchise lawyers have experience advising franchisors and franchisees
• We have acted for both franchisees and franchisors in the following sectors:
  • Building and Construction
  • Business systems and services
  • Education and early childhood
  • Health & fitness
  • Mortgage and Insurance
  • Optical retail and dispensary
  • IT
  • Property management and maintenance
  • Restaurant and food
  • Retail
  • Transportation
• Our lawyers have a wider commercial knowledge – we can advise on all legal aspects of your business.

Purchase A Franchise

Buying a franchise can have big advantages over starting from scratch as a lot of the hard work has been done for you already, proof of concept and profitability are just the tip of the iceberg. A recognised brand name, an established client base, a business plan, training and approved suppliers will save a lot of budget uncertainty.

Gibson Sheat has reviewed and provided advice on the franchise agreements for a lot of franchise systems operating in New Zealand so are in a great position to provide you with expert legal advice to ensure the process is as smooth as possible. We will make sure you understand these sometimes complex documents and are fully aware of any potential deal-breakers.

Establishing A Franchise

If you have a successful business then the next natural step is expansion. Sure, you could take on the additional commitment to things such as training, staff recruitment and property. But you might also consider selling your model as a franchise. The Franchisees themselves are responsible for the day-to-day running of their business and they must do this strictly in accordance with a well-written Franchise Agreement.

Gibson Sheat can help you draft the documentation you need, such as the franchise agreement, disclosure document, terms of supply, leases and licences, as well as help with negotiations with potential buyers. If you have a question regarding franchise agreements - talk to us.

Franchise Dispute Resolution

Despite all best efforts, there may come a time during a relationship between a franchisee and franchisor where they may not see eye-to-eye on an issue. Although disagreements in franchises are rare they do occur, the easiest and most effective way to come to an understanding is with the help of a specialist law firm such as Gibson Sheat.

Franchise disputes come in many forms, maybe you don’t agree with how advertising dollars are being spent, or you feel that the new menu items being introduced are not going to work in your area. Maybe a franchisor is asking you to invest a large amount of money in upgrading the property, these could include improvements or equipment you simply do not have the budget for. Whatever issues may come your way, these disagreements can usually be resolved with the use of an experienced mediator, if not, then having legal the right legal team on your side can make all the difference in court.

If you would like to talk more about purchasing or establishing a franchise please fill in the form below and we will be in touch