John Sotos

John stands as a towering figure in the realm of franchising, licensing, and distribution law, marking a distinguished 40-year journey of advising franchisors both domestically and on the international stage. He is celebrated for crafting and fine-tuning franchise systems or distribution chains, guiding businesses through restructurings, and facilitating both international and domestic transactions. John’s expertise is particularly sought after for strategic advice on acquisitions or sales of franchise systems and for reshaping brand concepts.

His knack for negotiating complex franchise matters has made him a trusted advisor across numerous industry groups. With a special focus on the grocery sector, John represents entities across the entire supply chain, though his expertise doesn’t stop there; the hospitality and automotive sectors also benefit from his deep industry knowledge. His contributions have significantly shaped the legal landscape for franchising in Canada, often consulting with governments and industry bodies on pivotal changes impacting the franchise world. John’s advisory extends to family-owned businesses, assisting with governance and succession planning to ensure longevity and wealth preservation.

Fluent in Greek, John offers a global perspective to his practice, admitted to the Ontario bar in 1980 and holding an LL.B. from the University of Western Ontario. His practice spans a broad range of areas, highlighting his versatility and deep understanding of the business implications of legal decisions.

John’s accolades include recognition as a Senior Statesperson and consistent rankings in top legal directories, showcasing his esteemed position in the legal community. His role in guiding legislative frameworks and advising on franchise regulation underscores his leadership and foresight.

Selected works and speaking engagements reflect John’s dedication to advancing the field, sharing his insights on international commerce and franchising’s role in economic growth. His blog posts delve into current issues facing franchisors, from modern slavery to greenwashing, demonstrating his commitment to keeping clients informed and ahead of trends.

John's personal statement reveals a professional deeply committed to client success, emphasizing a tailored, strategic approach to legal counsel. His dedication to being always available for his clients mirrors his commitment to excellence and partnership in achieving their goals. For anyone navigating the complex waters of franchising and business law, John is not just an advisor but a strategic ally.