UK Guide 2026 : UK-wide
Ranked Individuals
Provided by Poppleston Allen
Managing Partner: Graeme Cushion
Fee-earners: 27
Support staff: 17
Poppleston Allen was founded in 1994 by Jeremy Allen and Susanna Poppleston, two of the foremost licensing solicitors in England and Wales. The firm is now a highly renowned licensing boutique law firm, specialising in the alcohol, entertainment, food hygiene, health and safety, regulatory and gambling sectors.
The firm advises on over 8,000 applications each year from every licensed sector imaginable; ultra high-end property developers, restaurants, pubs and bars, hotels, private member clubs, outdoor music events, sports stadiums through to governmental organisations, trade associations, casinos, bookmakers, online gambling operators, charities, event venues, manufacturers and suppliers of gambling equipment, and software developers.
Poppleston Allen work closely with local authorities, police and professional bodies.
We get results. If we cannot - it is unlikely anyone can.
Provided by Chambers
Poppleston Allen is an acclaimed specialist licensing firm that counts among its clients a host of leading names from the casual dining, hospitality and late-night entertainment industries. With offices in Nottingham and London, the firm is equipped to handle the licensing aspects of large-scale acquisitions, and is also sought after for its representation of clients in contested hearings and licence reviews.
Provided by Chambers
Poppleston Allen advised Epiris on due diligence and reporting on the 160 premises and 40 pavement licences in use across the Amber Taverns estate, which was being acquired by the client.
Provided by Chambers
Poppleston Allen offers impeccable customer service, is highly skilled, provides super communication and makes you feel very safe on all aspects of licensing.
Poppleston Allen's in-depth knowledge of the system and understanding of our business all comes together backed up by great people with a no-problem approach.
They offer experts in their field as licensing is their specialism. They are extremely professional and personable, very easy to work with, and quickly grasp commercial and operational matters.
They have a great insight into the London licensing market and are very well placed to offer clients a much-needed steer on licensing issues which are of utmost importance to their businesses.
Poppleston Allen is very fast and efficient. You never have to chase them for information.
Provided by Chambers
Graeme Cushion is particularly adept at advising bars, casual dining and late-night venue clients. His practice spans new premises licence applications and licence reviews, in addition to contentious matters.
Graeme Cushion offers excellent communication and skills within licensing.
Graeme Cushion remains highly respected and trusted by us and is always on hand to offer good advice and guidance.
Graeme Cushion is always very engaged and on hand if we need help or advice.
Jonathan Smith handles matters for clients across a range of sectors, including restaurants and hospitality. His experience includes assisting with new premises applications and advising on the licensing aspects of corporate transactions.
Jonathan offers superb knowledge and is a great team player.
Jonathan Smith offers great support for us, a high level of experience and a fantastic delivery.
Jonathan is extremely knowledgeable and an expert in his field. He has a thorough understanding of our sector and is able to quickly cut through issues to help us achieve a favourable outcome.
Lisa Inzani receives plaudits for her depth of experience in licensing, and she frequently handles new premises licence applications. She advises well-known restaurant chains and clients in the entertainment sector.
Lisa is a delight to work with. She is highly competent and skilled in her field. You feel completely safe in her hands and problems are solved swiftly and diligently.
Lisa is always on hand to answer questions and give advice. Her knowledge is exceptional.
Lisa is a force to be reckoned with and stands head-to-head with the best in the field.
I simply would not enter into any discussion with the Licensing Authority without her consultation and guidance.
Lisa Sharkey provides expert advice to clients from the hospitality sector. She is experienced in representing clients before licensing committees and in handling applications for large-scale developments. She is particularly noted for her expert handling of matters involving cumulative impact zones.
Lisa Sharkey is an excellent team player with a vast knowledge of the industry.
Lisa Sharkey's client list ranges across prestigious names in the hospitality industry who tend to lead with her.
My main contact and a pleasure to work with, Lisa always makes it effortless for me and makes my job easier.
James Anderson knows the commercial needs that we have. He is always pushing to get the best possible licence, even if we do not use it. He thinks a step ahead for you and is a charming guy.
James is a very knowledgeable and professional solicitor and gets very favourable results for us.
Licensing
Licensing
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Provided by Poppleston Allen
Lisa Sharkey
View profile of Lisa SharkeyGraeme Cushion
View profile of Graeme CushionJonathan Smith
View profile of Jonathan SmithLisa Inzani
View profile of Lisa InzaniJames Anderson
View profile of James Anderson
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