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Ashley B. Weis Named to 2023 Franchise Times Legal Eagles

4/5/23

Eastman & Smith is pleased to announce that Ashley B. Weis was named to the 2023 Franchise Times Legal Eagles®.  Ms. Weis is the only Northwest Ohio attorney who appears on the list.

As Franchise Times editor Matthew Liedke said, “No matter the issue, the Franchise Times Legal Eagles want to get it solved so everyone can get back to business. With a keen mind for both the legalese and business, they understand the gravitas of every legal battle, every transaction and the importance of every document. That engenders a spirit of collaboration and efficiency among this tight-knit group of legal professionals.”

When asked about the biggest trend she is watching in 2023 and how she is approaching it, Ms. Weis highlighted data privacy trends. “State data privacy statutes and how those regulations fit in with the franchise model and the franchise system’s use of data in all aspects of the business, particularly with order processing and marketing/advertising tactics, is critical in today’s world,” she said. “Not being proactive with data collection and retention practices could lead to significant exposure for the franchisor.”  (For more on data privacy, please see the article written by Ms. Weis, “What Franchisors Should Know About Data Privacy Compliance in 2023.”)

Ms. Weis also commented on M&A and consolidation within franchising saying that “consolidation can be a good thing for both franchisors and franchisees—but only if the parties are a really good long-term match for each other (not just looking for a quick flip to make profit).”

As former in-house counsel for a national franchisor, Ms. Weis developed skills that she utilizes in her representation of corporate and franchise clients. Her experience entails a wide variety of business and legal matters including contracts, secured transactions, real estate, M&A, intellectual property, employment policies, franchise disclosures and legal compliance.  Should you have any questions regarding franchises or data privacy matters, please contact Ms. Weis.