Navigating the New Vertical Distribution Rules in the EU & the UK

Introduction

Following Brexit, both the EU and the UK have updated their competition law rules on vertical agreements.

The competition rules on vertical agreements are essential for any company involved in distribution to know about, whether acting as a supplier, wholesaler, distributor, competitor or a combination of a few. The old regimes will be phased out over the next year and so compliance with the new rules going forward is crucial.

This virtual classroom seminar will provide a summary of the main changes following the new rules in the EU and the UK. There will be practical tips for understanding how to navigate them (including where the regimes differ), explanations of the main concepts without any technical definitions or legalese and guidance from an experienced expert with over 10 years advising clients on this area.

What You Will Learn

This live and interactive course will cover the following:

• The main changes in the EU and UK in comparison to the previous regime
• How to gain safe-harbour protection
• How to assess risk for cases outside the safe-harbour
• Common issues to avoid
• How to understand the differences between active and passive sales
• How to understand the main rules around exclusive and selective distribution
• How to understand the evolving law around most favoured nation clauses
• The new regulatory landscape in view of e-commerce and other tech developments
• The common pitfalls suppliers and distributors face on a day-to-day basis
• Competition regulators’ focus and recent fines
• Recent developments in the EU and UK vertical restriction regimes
• How to navigate the application of both updated and different vertical regimes in parallel

Recording of live sessions: Soon after the Learn Live session has taken place you will be able to go back and access the recording - should you wish to revisit the material discussed.