Noted for its ‘fantastic levels of knowledge’, John Gaunt & Partners‘ practice is well-placed to assist a range of high-profile clients from the hospitality, retail and leisure sectors, and is noted for its specialism in handling contested applications. Known for his expertise in retail licensing matters, Jon Wallsgrove heads the practice from Gosport, often advising on regulatory compliance with rules governing the operation of licensed premises.

Blandy & Blandy LLP specialises in venue licensing, and is frequently instructed by major sporting and entertainment arenas. The team is well-equipped to support clients with the full range of license-related aspects of a project, including representation at contested licensing committee hearings. Assisting a diverse client roster which includes hotels, bars, and restaurants, ‘stand-out individual’ Sue Dowling leads the team from Reading, and is recommended for her broad knowledge of alcohol and entertainment licensing and related compliance issues.

 

Trethowans LLP has vast experience in handling licensing issues for large national restaurant estates, with the team’s broad capabilities ranging from setting up licensed outlets, to advising on street trading licenses. Karen Lush leads the practice, regularly assisting with applications for new premises licences, variations to existing premises licences, issues concerning late night refreshment, and regulated entertainment. Julia Palmer is recommended for betting and gaming matters and is a key name for licensing aspects of commercial property acquisitions.