England - London • Corporate and commercial
HFW
Supply-chain and logistics issues form the cornerstone of the practice at HFW, which is highly active on behalf of retailers and commodity traders, with particular expertise in shipping. Outside this work, the team also demonstrates proficiency in constructing sponsorship arrangements between companies and celebrities, partnership agreements in the aerospace sphere, and in providing bespoke, global training programmes for in-house contract managers. Matthew Gore and Catherine Emsellem-Rope co-head the group, with the former singled out for his focus on international port and terminal contracts, and the latter on complex, long term supply agreements. Judith Prior is a seasoned practitioner who is well-versed in oil and sugar trading terms. Matthew Wilmshurst also comes recommended, acting on mandates in the transport, retail, defence and education sectors.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Unique logistics and shipping industry knowledge’
‘Catherine Emsellem-Rope is the most experienced logistics commercial contracts lawyer in private practice. Matthew Gore knows more about long term container shipping and terminal agreements than anyone else in private practice. Matthew Wilmshurst is the pre-eminent lawyer for advice on liability provisions in commercial contracts.’
‘The team at HFW brings a lot of experience to the table, particularly to a niche industry i.e. sugar. Judith has strong expertise plus her professionalism, definitely made a huge difference to negotiations.'
‘Ms. Judith Prior was easy to work with and quick to respond to our requests. Very organised and great attention to detail.’
‘The team at HFW are very proficient and knowledgeable in the field of transport and logistics. It is a clear strength. Any request for help has always been met with a selection of lawyers with obvious skill and experience relevant to the issue at hand. Whether that be Matt Gore, Catherine Emsellem-Rope or Matthew Wilmshurst.'
‘The individuals I have worked with - Matt Gore, Catherine Emsellem-Rope and Matthew Wilmshurst - have always been professional in their approach, but their delivery is in a tone which is both knowledgeable but also personable. Their views, opinions and insight are always delivered with clear justification.'
Key clients
- Solent Stevedores
- Constellation Energy
Work highlights
- Advised a multinational logistics company in relation to the provision of vaccine consumables as part of the World Bank COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout, including reviewing and amending the agreement between the client and the purchasing countries, which was prepared by the World Bank.
- Advising one of the UK's largest operators of passenger and freight ferry services between the UK and Europe on multiple key issues relating to its core commercial relationships.
- Providing strategic board level advice to a leading supplier of technology and resources to the education sector in relation to its international supply chain operations and contractual relationships with ocean carriers and freight forwarders.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Matthew Gore, Catherine Emsellem-Rope