DLA Piper advises clients from all areas of the food and beverage industry, including manufacturers, importers, suppliers, sellers and packaging and labelling issues. Elena Varese, who is experienced in IP, unfair competition and advertising law, co-heads the food practice alongside Davide Rossetti, who advises major food and beverage companies as well as recognisable retailers. Ginevra Righini further strengthens the practice with her work in IP matters and her specialisation in protecting and enforcing geographical indications throughout Europe. The firm is also building a strong track record in terms of pro bono work, inclusivity, especially female lawyers, and tech initiatives for clients.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The firm is a market leader in the field of IP and advertising in Italy.'

  • 'They know how to handle complex matters and ensure consistency in all jurisdictions. They are top litigators and outstanding negotiators with great business acumen and knowledge of the new trends.'

  • ‘Elena Varese stands out for the quality of her advice and her capacity to deliver tailored solutions to complex matters in an efficient way. Always at the edge of new law and case-law developments, she anticipates our needs and conveys clear advice and added value, also thinking outside the box.'

  • 'Ginevra Righini is the go to person for geographical indications and management of portfolio work.’

  • ‘Elena Varese's team is of great support to the business.’

  • ‘Elena Varese is well prepared and professional. She always gives you a good idea on how to approach a specific issue, without forgetting business needs. A real friend of the in-house lawyers.’

Key clients

  • Holding Dolciaria Industriale S.p.A.
  • Gruppo Vezza
  • PM Food
  • Pernod Ricard
  • Unilever
  • Mondelez
  • Gea Group
  • Inalca Cremonini
  • Sabelli
  • Coca Cola Italy
  • IPER
  • Martini & Bracardi
  • Autogrill S.p.A.
  • Montengro
  • Bonomelli
  • Domino’s Pizza
  • Lidl

Work highlights

  • Assisted Pernod Ricard Italia S.p.A., a French multinational company specialising in the production and trade of well-known wines and spirits, in the acquisition of two real estate complexes from a bankruptcy proceedings for management and commercial use.
  • Advised in the dispute between Polymer, IPER former supplier, and IPER where Polymer instigated a 3.0M claim before the Court of Milan, claiming IPER to have breached the supply agreement in place between the parties.

Lawyers

Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Davide Rossetti, Elena Varese

Other key lawyers

Ginevra Righini