The term for Distribution Agreements varies, with terms being anywhere from 5 to 15 years. I try to limit the term as much as possible—especially when there is no advance, or a meager one.
Negotiating a Distributorship Agreement: Five Critical Steps to Success Execute a master agreement. Define the relevant goods subject to the agreement. Address all relevant intellectual property issues. Make sure renewal options and termination clauses allow the parties to adjust to changing market conditions.
Here are the steps to find and negotiate a distribution agreement: Step 1: Meet with the distributor. Step 2: Discuss the terms of distribution. Step 3: Review the details, such as marketing materials, catalogs, or product literature. Step 4: Hire a lawyer or an expert to draft the agreement.
The basic elements of a distribution agreement include the term (time period for which the contract is in effect), terms and conditions of supply and the sales territories covered by the agreement (regions within the U.S. and/or international markets).
Thus, the question of whether a distributorship contract is governed by the UCC will depend on the exact nuances of the contract. To determine whether the UCC applies, “courts generally examine the transaction to determine whether the sale of goods predominates.” Princess Cruises v. GE, 143 F. 3d 828, 833 (4th Cir.
The Distributor Agreement should clearly set forth the duties, responsibilities and expectations of each of the parties. The Distributor Agreement should also set forth provisions related to limitations and protections that each party can understand.