Commercial distribution agreements are essential tools for bringing products or services to market. Yet behind these contracts lie mandatory legal rules—often overlooked—that can lead to significant financial consequences if termination is not properly managed.

Three types of agreements deserve particular attention: the commercial agency agreement, the exclusive distribution (concession) agreement, and the franchise agreement.

They all share one feature: they protect the distributor or agent, while exposing the supplier to considerable risks. This seminar will help you better understand these mechanisms, anticipate potential difficulties, and safeguard your business relationships.

Programme

Agency Agreement

• Which stakeholders within your company fall under the mandatory legal framework?
• What risks arise from terminating an agency agreement (compensation for termination, statutory notice period)?
• How can these risks be mitigated (prevention, negotiation, and dispute management)?

Exclusive Distribution Agreement

• Which arrangements are subject to the mandatory legal regime?
• What risks arise from terminating an exclusive distribution agreement (reasonable notice period)?
• How can these risks be mitigated (prevention, negotiation, and dispute management)?

Franchise Agreement

• What obligations must be observed during the negotiation of a franchise agreement?
• How can you strengthen your contractual position when setting up such a distribution model?

Speaker

Justine VAESEN, Associate Lawyer, Claeys & Engels