Hogan Lovells International LLP

Hogan Lovells International LLP's Strategic Operations, Agreements and Regulation practice is led by Patrick Ayad (distribution antitrust and contract law, focus on the automotive and transport sectors) at international level, while the German practice is headed by Florian Unseld, who is well versed in advising across the industrial, consumer goods and logistics sectors. The diverse and cross-border expertise in the life sciences, technology, food, cosmetics and feed industries is regularly requested by major clients in the context of distribution systems, supply and leasing agreements, trade disputes and supply chain issues, including compliance. The latter area is a key strength of Jörg Schickert, while Susanne Schuster, who was appointed to counsel in January 2024, focuses on innovative distribution systems and contract drafting; the two counsels Golo Edel (logistics, automotive, food and consumer goods) and Sebastian Schnell (automotive, chemicals, consumer goods and technology) are further key contacts.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

'Extremely reliable team, high level of expertise, always fast and smooth collaboration. The feasibility in practice is always kept in mind.'
'Broad-based, fast, precise with high practical value even in complex legal issues. In many cases, directly monetizable. Contact/support from colleagues in other legal areas is seamless and also at the highest level.'
'Florian Unseld: At the highest legal level, pragmatic and to the point.'
'Relatively short lead time to understand the situation and identify suitable solutions.'
'Absolute reliability and the desire to always find solutions in the interest of the client.'
'The team always supports directly and competently close to our business and its challenges. They understand our language and provide us with excellent support in implementing strategic projects, particularly in the rapidly changing distribution logistics in the European e-commerce sector. Economical and pragmatic solutions are always found and explained in an understandable way.'
'Florian Unseld: He is always available to provide my company and me with advice and support and has already given us great support on a number of critical issues, thereby clearly advancing our company along the entire value chain.'
'Florian Unseld responds very quickly to inquiries and offers efficient and pragmatic solutions that are tailored to the needs of his clients.'

Key clients

Caterpillar
CureVac Corporate Services GmbH
Ingram Micro
Merz Gruppe
Motel One
Sartorius AG
ABB E-Mobility
Mercedes-Benz
Vinfast
Wacker Chemie
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation
Hyundai & Kia

Work highlights

Comprehensive ESG and supply chain compliance advice to various companies, including Caterpillar, CureVac, Ingram Micro, Merz Group and Motel One, in particular on the development and implementation of a risk management system in accordance with the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act.
Advising a German automotive manufacturer on product-related regulatory requirements (in particular on so-called “End-of-life Vehicles” (ELV), battery regulations and waste law) with regard to the strategic long-term adaptation of supply and production to future requirements.
Advising various automotive manufacturers on the interpretation and implementation of the new EU battery regulation.

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