When you need a trusted legal partner to navigate the dynamic, culturally driven retail food and beverage industry, Verrill is there for you. We understand and can guide you through the unique and complex regulations facing these businesses throughout the Northeast.

        We help business owners in the food and beverage industry navigate legal risks and protect their brand and company throughout the business lifecycle. Our team provides tools to foster growth and success in a challenging industry with thin profit margins. Whether you own a local bar, restaurant, food truck, or food and beverage retail establishment, we offer various services to support your business needs.

        Entity Formation

        Choosing the right entity for your business can be challenging. Each option has its own complexities. From corporate culture to personal liability issues to tax consequences and more, the choice of entity matters from the start. Seeking legal counsel can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your business goals. Our corporate team can assist you with the formation process and provide tools for maintaining good organizational records.

        Trademarks

        Trademarks, including company names, logos, and taglines, help distinguish your brand and products. Early investment in your brand saves money in the long run and prevents confusion in the marketplace. Protecting your trademark at the outset is crucial, as the cost of changing your name or litigating infringement suits later on is much higher. Our skilled IP team can help you with the necessary considerations and protections.

        Financing and Fundraising

        Raising capital for your business is vital. With the right approach and strategy, you can secure the funding you need and take your business to the next level. Our team can guide you in making the right decision for your organization.

        Real Estate Considerations

        Choosing the perfect location is pivotal for achieving success. While leasing space in an existing building is one option, it’s also essential to consider purchasing. Whether you’re interested in leasing or buying, our Real Estate Practice Group is here to guide you through the process. Before finalizing any agreement, it’s highly advisable to seek legal counsel. Our team of attorneys can make sure that your lease or purchase agreement aligns with your current and future business needs.

        Moreover, there may be opportunities for building, remodeling, or reconfiguring beyond just securing the space. This is where our experienced construction law team can help. They can provide invaluable assistance in reviewing and negotiating contracts for construction projects.

        Engaging with Employees

        Hiring and employment are two crucial aspects of running a business. However, navigating through the process can be challenging and time-consuming. Understanding company culture is essential to minimize risk and maintain a healthy work environment. State and federal regulations can intersect with company culture, making relationship management difficult. Our team has decades of experience working with food and beverage retail companies and can provide guidance that considers the company’s culture.

        Safety Practices to Avoid/Reduce Workplace Injuries

        To avoid workplace injuries, incorporate safety training during onboarding, reward safe behaviors, and regularly reinforce safety requirements. Train employees to clean up spills, avoid hazards, and move safely. Cultivate a culture of safety to save on insurance premiums and avoid fines. Our team of attorneys is skilled in OSHA and workers’ compensation issues.

        Promotions

        Verrill’s sales promotion law practice offers legal services for various sales promotions, including sweepstakes, contests, commercial co-ventures, and charitable sales promotions. Our experienced team has assisted marketing agencies and consumer brands for over 30 years, providing practical solutions while complying with regulations.

        International Opportunities

        Ensure your business plan is strategically aligned for international expansion, anticipating the potential surge in orders from global customers. While your primary focus may be domestic sales, it’s prudent to consider international markets proactively. It’s not uncommon for businesses to unexpectedly attract orders from foreign countries as their products gain online visibility. By addressing pertinent questions about international expansion early on, you can preemptively mitigate challenges and streamline the process for future success.

        Mergers, Acquisitions, and Divestments

        Verrill’s mergers and acquisitions team takes a practical approach to each transaction. They have worked on various sophisticated food and beverage-based deals. Our attorneys have extensive experience in various commercial sectors. With our years of experience and competitive rates, we can assemble a team to handle deals efficiently, staying on time and within budget.

        People
        
 Tawny L. Alvarez
        (207) 253 4522
        
 Charles P. Bacall
        (207) 253 4414
        
 Kelly A. Donahue
        (207) 253 4716
        
 Jonathan M. Dunitz
        (207) 253 4478
        
 Mark K. Googins
        (207) 253 4406
        
 Robert Laplaca
        (203) 222 3110
        
 Kevin J. O’Connell
        (617) 292 2862
        
 Michael V. Saxl
        (207) 629 0322

        Firm Highlights

        Media Mentions

        Verrill Recognized by WMTW for Partnership Supporting Hunger Relief in Maine

        Verrill was recently featured in coverage by WMTW News 8 for its role in a collaborative effort to combat food insecurity across southern...
        Press Releases

        33 Verrill Attorneys, Across Four Offices, Recognized in the 2026 Chambers USA Guide

        BOSTON, Massachusetts, PORTLAND, Maine, WESTPORT, Connecticut, and WASHINGTON, D.C. – Verrill has been recognized as a Leading Firm in 14...
        Blog

        Will the Knicks Beat the Spurs? (Are Prediction Market Event Contracts Gambling?)

        For those of you who like to keep score, currently 18 states are engaged in litigation over prediction markets, such as Kalshi and Polymarket,...
        Alerts and Newsletters

        DOJ Announces Faster Review and Enhanced Enforcement for Benefits-Fraud FCA Matters

        On May 27, 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Civil Division issued a new memorandum, “Accelerating Review and Enhancing Enforcement in...
        Alerts and Newsletters

        DOJ Announces Minnesota Health Care Fraud Takedown; Signals Intensified Medicaid Enforcement Nationwide

        On May 21, the Department of Justice (“DOJ”) announced a first-of-its kind Minnesota Health Care Fraud Takedown charging 15 defendants, including...
        Media Mentions

        Lauren Galvin Quoted in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly on Arbitration and Anti-SLAPP Protections

        Verrill Partner Lauren Galvin was recently featured in a Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly article highlighting a notable Superior Court decision...
        Blog

        Section 530A Accounts: What Employers Should Consider Before Offering Contributions to “Trump” Accounts

        Section 530A accounts, commonly referred to as Trump accounts, have attracted attention since the enactment of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act in...
        Blog

        Navigating PBM Reform: Regulatory Changes, Market Shifts, and Practical Guidance for ERISA Fiduciaries

        Pharmacy Benefit Manager (“PBM”) arrangements have long relied on rebates with limited transparency into true drug costs. Recent regulatory and...
        Blog

        DOL’s Proposed Regulation on Selecting Alternative Investments: Broad Implications for 401(k) and 403(b) Plan Fiduciaries

        On March 30, 2026, the Department of Labor issued a proposed regulation purporting to implement an executive order to expand access to “alternative...
        Press Releases

        Verrill Welcomes Private Clients & Fiduciary Services Attorney Gracie Castle

        BOSTON, Massachusetts – Verrill is pleased to welcome Gracie Castle to the firm’s Private Clients & Fiduciary Services Group as an Associate,...
        Published Works

        Francesco De Vito Authors Article in the Journal of the American College of Mortgage Attorneys

        Verrill Partner Frank De Vito authored an article featured in the Spring 2026 issue of The Abstract, the journal of the American College of Mortgage...
        Alerts and Newsletters

        Recent FinCEN Advisory Highlights Rising Health Care Fraud Risk for Financial Institutions

        As the federal government intensifies its “whole of government” approach to combat fraud, waste, and abuse, particularly in Federal Health Care...