3 Questions for Our Partners
Spotlight on DENOYES AVOCAT, partner of the Vending Show !
How do you support players in the Vending sector in an increasingly dense and complex legal environment?
I offer various types of legal support, usually on a flat-fee basis — either per project or on a recurring basis, like an outsourced legal department. The goal is not only to control legal costs but above all to provide continuous, proactive legal advice thanks to an in-depth understanding of the company, its practices, and its customer segments.
What do you see as the main legal and regulatory developments or legal risks to watch out for in the months ahead for the sector?
Against a backdrop of economic tension, we can see that relations between commercial partners are becoming increasingly strained, sometimes radically so. One of the major risks is the temptation to go straight from the problem to breaking the contract and the commercial relationship. The commercial courts are increasingly being called upon to deal with issues of abrupt termination of commercial relations. We can see that the radical nature of social networks is gradually penetrating the business world. But very often it’s simply a matter of misunderstandings between the parties. That’s why I’m increasingly recommending the use of mediation, which I believe helps to preserve – or even reinvent – the relationship between partners, in the best interests of their respective businesses.
I’m also thinking about environmental issues and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes, which require professionals to partially rethink their business models and communication strategies to avoid risks of “greenwashing.”
There is also a growing trend of regulatory authorities — such as the DGCCRF — being contacted, often by small clients or consumers. These are powerful tools of pressure that need to be anticipated and managed wisely.
Furthermore, commercial judges are increasingly rejecting cases where general terms and conditions of sale are not signed or include vague clauses. The backlog in the courts only worsens the situation for poorly prepared cases. That’s why it’s essential to seek legal support to avoid pitfalls and maximize your chances in court proceedings
Is there a particular meeting or moment you are especially looking forward to at this new edition of the Vending Show?
Unfortunately, I won’t be able to attend this year due to circumstances beyond my control, but I have no doubt the event will be a great success thanks to the hard work of NAVSA’s staff and board members. People too often forget that board members volunteer their time — often at the expense of their own businesses — to serve the common interests of the profession. I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank them for the trust they’ve placed in me over the years.
