Partner Article

North East lawyers advise on Ringtons’ distribution deal with North Atlantic Imports

North east law firm, Watson Burton has advised on an agreement that will see products from renowned tea merchant Ringtons, distributed throughout the US.

Advising North Atlantic Imports LLC, Watson Burton has structured an agreement that will be used throughout the eastern United States and also by Finest English Teas in the west, ensuring nationwide distribution.

The agreement is governed by English Law (as against US law) and protects all parties for any future potential re-distribution agreements in the US with online retailers such as Amazon, as well as paving the way for a range of merchandise such as teapots and mugs.

FDA regulations (food and drugs) in the US are different to those in the UK, so it was important that the distribution agreement also made provision for the need for alternative labelling and packaging for those products that are imported from the UK.

Sam Jardine, Watson Burton’s lead partner on the agreement said: “Due to the clicks-and-mortar nature of North Atlantic Import’s business this was a particularly complex cross-border agreement, as we needed to ensure that all parties were clear about geographic sales boundaries.

“We also worked closely with US trademark attorneys to ensure that whilst operating under UK law, Ringtons’ rights would remain protected.

“North Atlantic Imports has recognised that there is a strong demand for Ringtons’ products in the US as well as branded goods. This is genuinely a great north east brand and we wish both Ringtons and its new distributors every success in the launch.”

Co-owner of North Atlantic Imports and east coast distributor, John Lucas, is an ex-pat from Newcastle having landed stateside over 25 years ago and is very much at home with both Ringtons and Watson Burton.

Lucas said: “Watson Burton has guided us through a very complex international distribution agreement and we have enjoyed working with them on the project.

“It seems fitting that we have used a firm with its roots at the heart of the north east business community, on an agreement with one of the region’s most respected brands.

“I have spent some time getting to know Ringtons and have come to understand the Smith family’s deep commitment to producing the best possible products for their customers.

“Having an adviser that specialises in online technologies has proven invaluable to us as we have big plans for the business and online will play a huge part in this.

“Now that the agreement is in place, I am sure tea lovers in the east coast of America will become true Ringtonians like me in no time.”

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