Trade & Distribution

Trade and distribution are rarely just matters of contract law — they are about strategy, risk allocation, and implementation in an international context.

We advise companies, international SMEs, corporate groups, commercial agents, and distributors on the legally sound structuring, implementation, and enforcement of domestic and cross-border trade and distribution arrangements.

How can your commercial relationships be structured in a legally secure yet flexible way? How can risks in international contracts be minimised without losing sight of your commercial objectives?

How We Support You

• Commercial and sales contracts

• International contract drafting and choice of law

• Commercial agent and distribution systems

• Management of international trade transactions

• Dispute resolution and enforcement of claims

  
  

Key Areas of Advice

Commercial and Sales Contracts

How can trade contracts be structured in a legally sound and practical way?

Well-structured sales and supply agreements are the foundation of successful commercial relationships. We draft, review, and negotiate your contracts with a clear focus on risk allocation, enforceability, and commercial efficiency.

• Drafting and review of domestic and international sales and supply agreements

• Application and exclusion of the UN Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG)

• Delivery and payment terms, liability, and warranty provisions

• Incorporation of Incoterms® and industry-specific trade customs

  
  

International Contract Drafting and Choice of Law

Which law applies — and how can your position be protected in an international context?

International contracts often fail not because of their substance, but because of unclear governing law and jurisdiction clauses. We create clear, robust, and enforceable contractual frameworks.

• Governing law and jurisdiction clauses

• Arbitration and alternative dispute resolution

• Enforceability of judgments abroad

• Alignment of contractual structures with tax and compliance considerations

  
  

Commercial Agent and Distribution Systems

How can commercial agents and distribution partners be integrated fairly and in a legally secure manner?

Errors in structuring commercial agency or distribution agreements often lead to significant follow-on claims. We develop legally sound and commercially viable distribution systems tailored to your business model.

• Drafting and review of commercial agency and distribution agreements

• Implementation of the EU Commercial Agents Directive and national legal requirements

• Compensation claims, commission structures, and non-compete obligations

• Termination and restructuring of distribution systems

  
  

Management of International Trade Transactions

How can international trade transactions be handled efficiently while minimising risk?

From the selection of the business partner to final performance and delivery, we support your transactions with a clear focus on risks, deadlines, and operational interfaces.

• Structuring of international supply and service relationships

• Payment security, collateral, and guarantees

• Handling performance disruptions, delivery delays, and defects

• Coordination with logistics providers, tax advisors, and other consultants

  
  

Dispute Resolution and Enforcement of Claims

How can claims be enforced efficiently — both domestically and internationally?

Commercial disputes require strategic judgment, commercial awareness, and experience in cross-border matters. We represent your interests with a solution-oriented and effective approach.

• Out-of-court negotiations and settlement solutions

• Domestic and international court proceedings

• Arbitration and mediation

• Enforcement of judgments and awards in Germany and abroad

  
  

Our Full-Service Approach

Trade and distribution matters involve multiple legal interfaces: contract law, private international law, tax law, customs, compliance, and dispute resolution all interact closely. We address these interdependencies and, where required, coordinate with trusted partner advisors to ensure that your commercial relationships remain both legally secure and commercially effective.

You benefit from:

• clear communication and accessible contract drafting

• pragmatic implementation instead of theoretical constructs

• structured project management from contract negotiation through to enforcement

• advice focused on growth, risk minimisation, and international scalability

  
  

Contact

Ulrich Baumann - Partner
+49 89 23 23 73 6-16
ulrich.baumann@oikon.law

Daniel Fellmann - Senior Associate
+49 89 23 23 73 6-22
daniel.fellmann@oikon.law

Dr. Jur. Anna Tönies-Bambalska
+49 89 23 23 73 6-27
anna.bambalska@oikon.law