As the second-largest industry in the world, retail employs more than 22 million Americans and generates more than $3 trillion in annual sales. But to survive and thrive in the current retail environment is more difficult than ever. In the face of a slowed economy, consolidation, and bankruptcies, it is critical to bring together under one roof the myriad areas of law that affect those in the retail industry. At Foster Pepper, we draw on our integrated practice group approach to deliver up-to-the-minute legal advice that covers a broad spectrum of areas — from bankruptcy to employment and labor and from land use to corporate transactions and securities.

Our lawyers address a full range of domestic and international trade regulation and product distribution issues and help clients structure distributor and agency relationships, licensing agreements, and franchiser-franchisee relationships. We regularly handle trade regulation and product distribution matters for one of the largest retailers in the United States, as well as for other clients. These matters have included use of intellectual property laws and other regulatory regimes to control distribution of products.

Our experienced attorneys understand market trends and the tough issues retailers face. We are up-to-date on the latest information in the field and are well qualified to help clients think through and work through these highly specialized issues. We have represented Costco Companies, Inc., since its inception, and are also proud to serve Safeway, REI and many other retail companies.