Consumer Goods & Retail

The Consumer Goods & Retail sector in the UAE and the wider Middle East has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by factors such as rising disposable incomes, a growing population of young consumers, and increasing urbanization. The UAE has positioned itself as a global shopping destination, attracting tourists with its luxurious malls, international brands, and tax-free shopping. The region has also seen a rapid adoption of e-commerce, with local players now competing with the established global giants. Challenges remain however, including the need for retailers to adapt to changing consumer preferences, such as the growing demand for personalized experiences and sustainable products, as well as navigating complex regulatory environments across different Middle Eastern countries.

Our Consumer Goods and Retail practice is at the forefront of supporting clients in this thriving sector. We are proud to act for some of the largest and most innovative companies in the UAE's consumer goods sector, including multinational corporations, local manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. Our clients span a wide range of industries, from food and beverage to electronics, fashion, and beyond. We provide a full suite of legal services to support our clients at every stage of their operations, from market entry and establishment to expansion, diversification, and exit. Whether our clients are looking to set up a new business, launch a new product, enter into a distribution agreement, or navigate a complex regulatory issue, we have the expertise and experience to help them succeed.

• Advising a British multinational consumer goods company on its local distribution arrangements, UAE labelling and import and export regulatory matters.
• Advising a leading consumer product distributor on its response to the Ministry of Economy with regard to certain proposed changes to the Federal Law No. 4 of 2012 Concerning Regulating Competition.
• Advising a global leader in consumer technology products on the application of the UAE competition regime on its proposed resale pricing arrangements with local distributors.
• Advising a leading UAE brand portfolio owner on its in-store and online returns policy, ensuring compliance with the UAE consumer protection regime.
• Advising one of the largest Middle East e-commerce companies in court proceedings and successfully obtaining the dismissal of a payment order.
• Representing a global sports brand in challenging a fine imposed by the FTA in relation to the self-disclosure of unreported VAT amounts.
• Advised the owners of a major retail business operating across the GCC with over 100 branches on the sale of their business. 
• Advised on the acquisition of an equity interest in a Dubai based e-commerce business.
• Advising a diversified group of companies with a focus on modern retail on matters pertaining to the risks of a termination of a long-standing franchise arrangement.
• Advised a well-known multinational sports retail corporation with 60,000 employees worldwide on various employment matters, including settlement documentation, terminations, and compliance with labor laws.
• Advised a multinational retail franchise operator in relation to a ‘click and collect’ scheme run by DXB Airport.
• Advised a prominent FMCG brand on various intellectual property matters including trademark strategy, advertising clearance, and opposition proceedings in Pakistan, demonstrating our comprehensive IP capabilities and coordinated approach to client representation.