HFW is pre-eminent in the aviation, logistics and especially shipping spaces; according to one client, the group is the ‘clear leader in shipping commercial contracts'. In addition, the team acts for household names in the retail space. Sponsorship agreements are also a key part of the group’s work. Matthew Gore and Catherine Emsellem-Rope run the team, both possessing significant expertise in supply chain contracts. Another standout member of the team is Alistair Mackie, who is described as ’an unrivalled expert in port terminal concessions’.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Industry specialists with vital market insight.’
  • ‘Matthew Gore is approachable, knowledgeable and trustworthy.'

  • ‘Deep sector knowledge. The clear leader in shipping commercial contracts.’

  • ‘Catherine Emsellem-Rope and Matthew Gore stand out as the go-to lawyers for contract advice and drafting.'

  • 'Alistair Mackie is an unrivalled expert in port terminal concessions.’

  • ‘They have always proved to be reliable and responsive. This has helped ease any stress related to certain items where we need their legal support - which helps a great deal! The advice given is always clear and simple.'

  • ‘The individuals we deal with are professional yet personable, and clearly know their stuff.'

Key clients

  • Proman AG
  • Isles of Scilly Steamship Company Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising leading retailers on their sea freight agreements in a fast-moving market.
  • Advising clients on cutting-edge technology to digitise trade operations.
  • Assisted Isles of Scilly Steamship Company Limited and subsidiaries with matters related to the construction, purchase and financing by them of one large passenger and cargo ferry and one cargo vessel.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Matthew Gore, Catherine Emsellem-Rope

Other key lawyers

Audrey Hsieh, Matthew Wilmshurst, Alistair Mackie