Foot Anstey represents both franchisors and franchisees, including start-ups and established multi-national corporations. The group is increasingly active in assisting clients with extending their franchising network internationally. Commercial lawyer Paul Cox sits at the helm of the practice in Southampton, with expertise in resolving franchising-related disputes and drafting agreements. Peter Singfield is another key name in the disputes space, and in team news, Sam Elworthy was added to the group from Temple Bright LLP at the beginning of 2024, while John Shaw joined Brandsmiths in April 2023.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Great team with specific retail knowledge. Very down-to-earth and sensible.'

  • ‘Sam Elworthy is exceptional; a great commercial lawyer who is technically excellent but also a problem solver who is very pragmatic and a pleasure to deal with. In particular, an expert in franchising. He quickly builds an understanding of what matters to you and the business.'

  • ‘Sam Elworthy is not afraid to give his opinion when asked for it. Sam is extremely quick in response to queries and has the ability to quickly identify the more important issues. In complex matters he is prepared to give a sense of the key issues and advise up front, before he provides a longer considered response. This is very helpful in the commercial world where decisions need to be made quickly.'

  • 'Sam Elworthy has deep emotional intelligence and a good sense of humour.'

Key clients

  • Franchise Focus Limited
  • Sixes Cricket Limited
  • SSP

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Paul Cox

Other key lawyers

Sam Elworthy, Charlene Nelson, Peter Singfield