UK Competition Act 1998: Primary UK competition law legislation that prohibits anti-competitive agreements and abuse of dominant market position. Particularly relevant for territorial restrictions, pricing mechanisms, and exclusivity provisions in distribution agreements.
Enterprise Act 2002: Provides the framework for merger control and market investigations in the UK, which may be relevant for larger distribution arrangements or market-dominant positions.
Vertical Agreements Block Exemption Regulation (VABER): Retained EU law providing safe harbor for certain vertical agreements, including distribution agreements, that meet specific criteria regarding market share and prohibited restrictions.
Commercial Agents Regulations 1993: While not directly applicable to distributors, important for distinguishing between agency and distribution relationships and avoiding misclassification.
Consumer Rights Act 2015: Key legislation for consumer protection, relevant if the distribution chain ultimately serves consumers. Sets out quality standards and consumer rights.
Trade Marks Act 1994: Governs the use and protection of trademarks, crucial for distribution agreements involving branded products and trademark licensing.
Data Protection Act 2018 & UK GDPR: Regulates the processing of personal data, relevant for customer data handling and data sharing between distributor and supplier.
Sale of Goods Act 1979: Fundamental legislation governing the sale of goods, including implied terms about quality and fitness for purpose in commercial contracts.
Customs and Excise Management Act 1979: Relevant for international distribution arrangements, governing import/export procedures and duties.
Bribery Act 2010: Anti-corruption legislation requiring adequate procedures to prevent bribery, particularly relevant in international distribution relationships.
Modern Slavery Act 2015: Requires larger businesses to ensure transparency in supply chains and prevent modern slavery, relevant for distribution networks.
Trade Secrets Regulations 2018: Protects confidential business information, crucial for provisions regarding confidentiality and know-how in distribution agreements.
Food Safety Act 1990: Specific regulation for food product distribution, ensuring safety standards throughout the distribution chain.
Unfair Contract Terms Act 1977: Regulates the use and enforcement of exclusion and limitation clauses in commercial contracts, including distribution agreements.
