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Franchise Lawyers & Retail Specialists

Uncomplicated, Expert Legal Advice for Retailers and Franchisors.

Experienced working with Australia’s most reputable Franchisors, Hitch support scaling Franchisors by understanding commercial goals and resolving matters simply and quickly, with the best outcome in mind.

Franchise Lawyers & Retail Specialists

Franchise & Retail Experts

THE INDUSTRY EXPERTS

Hitch employ some of the best franchise lawyers in Melbourne, Sydney, and Adelaide. With a proven track record working with the Franchise Code of Conduct, we are proud to support Australia’s leading retailers and franchised networks with their legal needs.

Our Retail and Franchising team are not only experts in Franchising Code of Conduct, compliance and documentation, but also have specialist knowledge in fitness, health, beauty and food franchising.

Key Franchise & Retail Challenges

Key Franchise & Retail Challenges

AND HOW HITCH SUPPORTS

As an official Franchising Council of Australia Legal Partner we pride ourselves in understanding the challenges of the sector, and how to get franchisors the best outcome without the concern of complex process or the uncertainty around compliance and fees. 

At Hitch, we’re more than a law firm. We’re your legal partner offering a personable service with specialised industry knowledge. We employ innovative processes to avoid delays and get the best outcome for you.   

Some of the key challenges franchisors face and how Hitch AdvisoryHitch can support for the best commercial outcome include: 

Franchise Documentation

We prepare state of the art Franchise Documentation and facilitate the negotiation and execution of new locations, renewals and franchise sales for leading Australian franchisors.
Franchise Documentation

Compliance

Ensuring compliance with a broad range of laws across all States and Territories as well as Franchising Code of Conduct compliance. We keep our clients updated on changes in legislation and insider tips into matters impacting the industry.
Compliance

Merges & Acquisitions

We have acted on some of the largest retail and franchising transactions in Australia and have helped global businesses commence operations in Australia.
Merges & Acquisitions

Code of Conduct

Our Retail and Franchising team are experts in Franchising Code of Conduct compliance. Ensuring compliance with a broad range of laws across all States and Territories we keep you updated on changes in legislation and insider tips into matters impacting the industry. We know the ins and outs of running a successful franchise or retail business, from development to growth to exit.
Code of Conduct

01.

Pharmacy

03.

Pharmacy

How We Are Different

Why Choose Hitch

  • Proven track record

    Proven track record

    With longstanding relationships with national retailers and franchisors such as Anytime Fitness, Foodco, Guzman Y Gomez, Aje, Zeus Street Greek, Pinot & Picasso, Laser Clinics Australia, Cue Clothing and Yellow Brick Road (to name a few) – Hitch offers an “outsourced inhouse” solution, giving business directors access to their own franchise attorney, ensuring seamless support of the business. 

  • Innovative practice 

    Innovative practice 

    We pride ourselves on staying ahead of the curb when it comes to technology and innovation, resulting in speed, accuracy, and improved experiences for our clients from onboarding to yearly reviews. 

  • Human-led experience 

    Human-led experience 

    We are committed to ensuring clients of all sizes and industries have an unparalleled experience when working with us and take the time to understand your vision and goals. 

Key clients

Client overview

Contact the Retail and Franchising Team

Meet us

  • Joel Marshall

    Joel Marshall

    Principal

    Joel Marshall

    Principals

    Joel Marshall

    Principal

    BIOGRAPHY

    Joel Marshall leads the Hitch Advisory Franchising team at Hitch Advisory.

    Having commenced his practice in New Zealand, Joel is well versed in assisting businesses with international expansion, structuring and strategic business advice.

    In his down time Joel likes surfing, fishing and exploring the great outdoors.

  • Jack Robertson

    Jack Robertson

    Principal

    Jack Robertson

    Principals

    Jack Robertson

    Principal

    BIOGRAPHY

    Jack specialises in Corporate and Commercial, with a particular focus on healthcare (medical and pharmacy).

    Acting for a range of corporate clients, Jack has particular expertise dealing in healthcare (medical and pharmacy), M&A, and franchising.

    Jack acts on both healthcare transactions as well as advising on regulatory matters in the healthcare space (e.g. Pharmacy Council applications).

    With extensive experience advising on transactions and general commercial law, Jack’s advice reflects a strong understanding of the commercial needs and realities of his clients.

    Out of the office you will often find Jack scuba diving, camping, and spending time with his family.

  • Abbie Oliver

    Abbie Oliver

    Lawyer

    Abbie Oliver

    Principals

    Abbie Oliver

    Lawyer

    BIOGRAPHY

    Abbie is a dedicated professional in the Franchising & Retail sector with nearly a decade of experience working within some of Australia’s largest franchise systems. While undertaking her studies, she developed a strong interest in the operational and regulatory complexities of franchising.

    Abbie assists clients with a general range of commercial law matters, with insight and experience in the preparation and negotiation of franchise agreements and is committed to providing strategic guidance to franchisors and franchisees.

    Outside of work, Abbie is a mother of three boys and enjoys quality time with family and friends, as well as exploring the latest dining experiences.

  • Emani Lacasandile

    Emani Lacasandile

    Lawyer

    Emani Lacasandile

    Principals

    Emani Lacasandile

    Lawyer

    BIOGRAPHY

    Emani is a junior lawyer in the Franchising & Retail team. With a keen interest in all things franchising, she assists clients in a variety of franchise transactions – from the preparation and negotiation of franchise documents to the sale of franchised businesses.

    Emani boasts an impressive list of noteworthy clients across a wide range of industries.

    With a genuine passion to help, Emani is committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for her clients.

    Away from her desk, you will likely find Emani on a run whilst blasting Taylor Swift, exploring the newest wine bars, or enjoying time with family and friends.

  • Ophelia Veloudos

    Ophelia Veloudos

    Senior Associate

    Ophelia Veloudos

    Principals

    Ophelia Veloudos

    Senior Associate

    BIOGRAPHY

    Ophelia specialises in franchise law while continuing to work across a variety of commercial matters including SME acquisitions, and contract review and drafting.

    She works with clients across a range of industries including hospitality, retail, wellness, manufacturing, trade and professional services.

    Ophelia appreciates the needs of small business, having worked in her own family business in hospitality and manufacturing. She prides herself on giving practical advice and working alongside her clients to problem-solve and safeguard their business.

    Outside of work, you will either find Ophelia in the Pilates studio or being dragged along on her husbands fishing trips.

How can we help you?

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