Franchise Legal Players: Andrew P. Bleiman of Marks & Klein, LLP

Name: Andrew P. Bleiman
Firm: Marks & Klein, LLP
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-p-bleiman-6104885?
About Your Firm: Marks & Klein, LLP is a business law firm which concentrates in the area of franchise law.  Marks & Klein focuses on providing conscientious, thorough and effective legal counseling for all of our clients on every matter.  Creativity, integrity and accountability are fundamental to how we practice law and serve individuals, entrepreneurs, businesses and families alike. Our clients look to us for the soundness of our advice and results we achieve. We are relentless towards achieving positive results while putting old-fashioned personal client service first and foremost. 
Website:  www.marksklein.com 

What makes your firm stand out as a resource for the franchise industry?

Our firm has a very broad range of experience in representing both franchisees and franchisors in connection with transactional and litigation matters.  Consequently, we provide a balanced and comprehensive understanding of the issues facing franchisees and franchisors.  

What is the No. 1 thing a franchisor/franchisee should look for when identifying the right franchise attorney? 

Prospective clients should look for a practitioner who understands the business aspects of franchising in addition to the legal issues facing franchisors and franchisees.  

When it comes to your work, what makes you happiest?

Educating clients and helping them to grow their businesses.  

What are your top concerns for the franchise industry in the next year?

Saturation of certain industry segments.  With the exponential growth of franchising, many competitive brands and concepts are popping up in the same industries.  Therefore, it is likely that some of these concepts will not succeed and it is critical that franchisees perform extensive due diligence before signing a franchise agreement.  

What are you most optimistic about in the franchise industry in the next year?

The opportunities that franchisees and multi-unit franchisees will have from a transaction perspective given the consolidation of franchisees by private equity firms and family offices.  There will be considerable deal flow and activity in franchising over the next year.