Franchise association accreditation for BHP

2nd Feb 2009

BHP Law has become one of only two law firms in the North-East to hold accreditation from the British Franchise Association (BFA).

The law firm, which has offices in Newcastle, Durham, Darlington, Teesside and Halifax, has been made an affiliated professional advisor by the association, endorsing its expertise in what has become an increasingly specialist legal area.

The move means BHP Law is seen as one of the country’s leading organisations for giving advice to franchisors and franchisees looking to buy into an established, branded business.

Franchising has increasingly become a more attractive option for people wanting to get businesses off the ground because they have the benefit of trading under an already well-known name.

However, the legal work involved for both parties can be extensive, with issues such as start-up business advice, trademarking, employment advice and property lease work to be considered.

As a result, the BFA has accredited only a limited number of firms across the country – and BHP Law has been added to the list.

David Lucas, of BHP, said: “Franchising is now a fairly specialist industry and those involved in it need the protection of dealing with someone who has sound knowledge of the BFA code of ethics.

“The BFA is the custodian of ethical business to business franchising and always recommends that legal advice is taken from one of their affiliated professional advisors.

“We can act for franchisors looking to set up a business and franchise it out, as well as advising franchisees about the pitfalls that they could encounter along the way.

“We are thrilled to have received the accreditation from the BFA, as it is recognition of our experience and expertise in dealing with these matters.”

Author: Bryan Hoare (info@bhplaw.co.uk)