Competition Act 1998: Primary legislation regulating anti-competitive agreements and abuse of dominant market position. Critical for franchise agreements particularly regarding territorial restrictions and pricing mechanisms.
Consumer Rights Act 2015: Key legislation impacting consumer-facing aspects of the franchise operation and affecting terms that can be included in consumer contracts.
Trade Marks Act 1994: Governs the use and protection of trademarks, critical for licensing of franchise brand and intellectual property rights.
Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR: Regulates the handling of customer and employee data, setting requirements for data protection compliance in franchise operations.
Companies Act 2006: Fundamental legislation relevant for corporate structure and governance requirements in franchise operations.
Sector-Specific Regulations: Industry-specific regulations that vary depending on the franchise type (e.g., food safety, retail, healthcare).
Vertical Agreements Block Exemption Regulation: EU-derived law (retained post-Brexit) affecting vertical agreements between businesses at different levels of the supply chain.
Employment Rights Act 1996: Key employment legislation relevant for franchise operations involving staff transfers or employment relationships.
Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006: TUPE regulations that may apply in franchise transfers and protect employees' rights.
Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988: Protects intellectual property rights within the franchise system, including copyright and design rights.
Common Law Contract Principles: Fundamental principles governing contract formation, incorporation of terms, breach, and remedies in English law.
British Franchise Association Code of Ethics: Industry standards and best practices for franchising, though not legislation, providing important guidance for franchise agreements.
Financial Services and Markets Act 2000: Relevant legislation if the franchise involves any financial services components or activities.
Money Laundering Regulations 2017: Regulations ensuring compliance with anti-money laundering requirements in franchise operations.
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974: Legislation establishing workplace safety requirements applicable to franchise operations.
