UK Guide 2026 : Scotland
Ranked Individuals
Provided by Shoosmiths LLP
The retail experience for customers is being transformed by a convergence of changing technology and demographics, ethics and sustainability.
This evolving landscape can open new opportunities and markets to retailers who are ready to be inspired by change and think differently.
Having worked for decades with some of the biggest and most iconic names in retail – including IKEA, Hamleys and Boots – as well as with some of the sector’s most exciting new entrants and disruptors, the Shoosmiths retail & consumer team has a vast bank of sector knowhow to inform its advice to clients and make it on-point and relevant.
At the heart of the sector team’s approach is commerciality - the ability to map between the legal issue at hand, and the ‘real’ competitive market you operate in. This may include a radically changing high street, rising privacy and data issues, increased regulatory compliance, environmental concerns, health & safety risks and consumer-driven litigation.
Provided by Chambers
Shoosmiths handles property portfolio management work, including sales, purchases and leasing, on behalf of both retail tenants and landlords. The team's experience also includes retail development schemes and associated planning work. The firm acts for a number of household-name clients in the convenience store, fashion and furniture retail sectors.
Provided by Chambers
Shoosmiths acted for Ralph Lauren on the acquisition of a new store in a prime location.
Provided by Chambers
Shoosmiths offer an excellent team mentality and commitment to tasks in hand.
Shoosmiths is a modern practice that is forward-thinking and innovative but still values traditional methods of building, maintaining and developing personal business relationships with clients.
The team are always very good at keeping you up to date in terms of where the deal sits. They are strong communicators.
Provided by Chambers
Robin Mitchell is an experienced retail lawyer who represents both occupiers and landlords in a range of matters. His experience also extends to cover more complex conditional developments.
I enjoy working with Robin and always know a deal will happen quickly when he is involved.
He is a fantastic lawyer who is very experienced and knowledgeable and my go-to for anything real estate-based in Scotland. I couldn't speak more highly of Robin.
He knows real estate inside and out; he knows it so well. He is probably one of the most highly skilled lawyers I have ever encountered.
Leading Shoosmiths' national real estate finance team, Sheelagh Cooley is known for her expertise in lender-side work. She is engaged by some of the largest retail lenders, advising them on their investment portfolios.
Sheelagh understands the commercial reality of what businesses need from a lease to operate efficiently and effectively.
She was excellent and has continued to provide us with a huge amount of support.
Sheelagh is a pleasure to work with and always makes time for responses, meetings or calls.
Rachel McCallum is an up-and-coming talent in the retail sector. Her knowledge and pragmatism leaves her well positioned to advise a range of key clients in property matters.
Rachael is a really safe pair of hands.
Rachael is brilliant; nothing is too much trouble for her.
Retail
Retail
Retail
Provided by Shoosmiths LLP
Janette Speed
Rachael McCallum
View profile of Rachael McCallumRobin Mitchell
View profile of Robin MitchellSheelagh Cooley
View profile of Sheelagh Cooley
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