Legal 500 2024 - Industry Focus: Retail

Strelia has a strong focus on distribution issues with transactional and contentious mandates related to the relationships of retailers with their franchisees a cornerstone of the practice. The team is also active across a number of take-overs in the retail space. Olivier Clevenbergh is an authority on franchisings and is also active on M&A work in the space, while Jean-Pierre Fierens has in-depth knowledge of distribution law.

‘Even though Strelia is a larger office, they manage to keep a practical and down to earth approach.’

‘The team takes a simple approach and provides logical solutions.’

Legal 500 2023 - Industry Focus: Retail

Regarded by some clients as 'one of the best teams I have ever met in this practice' Strelia often advises major retailers in distribution, franchise and commercial matters, including corporate takeovers and tenancy issues. Practice chair Gaetano Jannone is a 'determined, proactive' commercial arbitrator and litigator whose clientele spans the worlds of consumer food and beverages, fashion, and restaurant franchises. Olivier Clevenbergh assists franchisors with their growth in Belgium and abroad, while Jean-Pierre Fierens is noted for his proficiency in distribution law and corporate litigation.

‘The Strelia team is one of the best teams I have ever met in this practice, and is surely the best in Belgium. They have a deep knowledge of the practice and an unbelievable capacity to share, with clarity, with the client the legal aspects of the case.’

‘Gaetano Jannone is the individual who stands out in this practice: determined, purposeful, efficient, proactive, always available, highly appreciated by the clients.’

‘Mr. Fierens is a very experienced attorney, who is an absolute authority in his field, both as a litigator and an arbitrator. On top of that, he has a broad knowledge of Belgian corporate, commercial and contract law.’

‘Strelia has a very good knowledge of the retail legal challenges, and of our industry sector in general. They provide practical and solution-oriented advice, and are very responsive.’

‘They are also very proactive in providing any complementary advice or highlight as to any “side-questions” or attention points they might identify in providing their services.’

‘Good availability, quick and appropriate response to our demands.’

‘Joanna Kolber at Strelia is a very promising young partner. Great to work with; collegiate and responsive.’

‘Legal advice is always practical and professional. Work is always delivered in time. Excellent communication and fair pricing.’

Legal 500 2022 - Industry Focus: Retail

Led by cross-border franchising specialist Olivier Clevenbergh, Strelia regularly acts for franchising, distribution, and commercial real estate actors from Belgium and beyond. In recent months, the team has handled commercial partnership terminations, master franchise agreements, and disputes regarding various breaches of contract, including distributorships and events-based projects in the high fashion space. Clevenbergh is also known for his transactional expertise, assisting various supermarkets and apparel chains with their expansion efforts. Jean-Pierre Fierens is widely regarded for his capabilities as an arbitrator and litigator in distribution law cases and franchising agreements. Joanna Kraus-Kolber and Gaetano Jannone are also noted.

‘This practice is unique, due to its distinctive way of working with the client. High level of engagement and availability. The best advice and collaboration. Very good lawyers.’

‘Joanna Kolber is the best advocate I have worked with.’

‘Great responsiveness and insights in dispute settlements.’

Legal 500 2021 - Industry focus: Retail

Clients appreciate Strelia's 'business-oriented' practice and its ability to 'anticipate clients' needs', with notable experience advising on the commercial relationships between retailers and their franchisees. Led by corporate and distribution specialist Olivier Clevenbergh, the team advises on the set-up and development of outlets and networks across Belgium, with a particular focus on suppliers’ contracts, joint purchasing structures and lease agreements. Renowned litigator Jean-Pierre Fierens oversees contentious matters, having recently assisted on various cases concerning the termination of tenders and franchise partnerships. Fierens works closely with 'smart, reactive and fast' disputes partner Joanna Kolber.

‘The lawyers of Strelia are practical and efficient in the sense that they understand our business. We don’t need to tell them the same thing twice. They are business-oriented and anticipate our needs. They are dedicated to respecting deadlines. A real business partner.’

‘Joanna Kolber is a solution-oriented lawyer who is not afraid to think outside the box. Smart, reactive and fast, Joanna not only masters the relevant legislation but she also understands the specific needs and challenges in the retail sector.’