MFMac: Law Applied

In this podcast, Mel Hall, Legal Director, and Alison Marr, Senior Associate, in our Charities and Third Sector team, explore the key changes affecting charity data practices in 2026. They discuss the impact of some of the changes introduced by the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025, lessons emerging from recent ICO action, how charities can approach soft opt-in with confidence, the wider implications of the Birthlink case and data protection considerations when carrying out prospect research.

This episode takes a deep dive into the UK distilling landscape, exploring the findings of the 2025 Distilling Census and what they mean for producers, founders and investors across the sector.   Hosted by Andrew Walker, Partner in our Manufacturing, Media & Technology team, the discussion brings together legal and industry insight from fellow Partner Euan Duncan and guest speakers Emile Ward and Olivier Ward. Together, they unpack the shifts shaping distilling today, from category performance to investment signals and future opportunities for growth.   If you work in spirits, food and drink or the wider drinks ecosystem, this conversation offers clear, practical commentary grounded in real world data.

In the world of food and drink, great products aren't enough - a strong brand is what makes them memorable. In this episode, Andrew Walker talks with David Reid about why brand matters more than ever. Together they explore how a clear identity builds trust, drives loyalty and helps businesses stand out from the competition. David also shares insights from his experience working with leading food and drink brands.

In our latest podcast Melissa Hall, Legal Director, and Amina Amin, Senior Solicitor, in MFMac's Commercial team, explore what DSARs are, when and why individuals typically make them, and the challenges organisations face, particularly when requests are broad or arise in contentious situations. The discussion also outlines how to manage DSARs effectively, from clarifying the scope and meeting deadlines to applying exemptions.  This podcast highlights key ICO guidance, common risks including complaints and enforcement, and practical steps organisations can take to remain compliant and reduce legal and reputational exposure.

In our latest podcast, Andrew Walker, Partner in MFMac's Food & Drink sector is in conversation with Ben MacMillan, Managing Director of Edinburgh Street Food (ESF), and Adam Hardie, Head of Food & Drink at Johnston Carmichael regarding the evolution of ESF as a business to date and its exciting plans for the future.

The rise of Guinness, Liquid Death's retreat from European markets, the decline in Cognac sales in parts of the world and challenges and opportunities facing the wine industry. In our latest podcast focusing on the food and drink sector, Andrew Walker, Partner in MFMac's Corporate team, speaks with Emile Ward and Olivier Ward to discuss their insights and observations on these various interesting drinks sector trends.

In our latest podcast, Andrew Walker, Partner in MFMac's Corporate team, discusses three key topics with industry experts, Emile Ward and Rowena Tolley. They explore: the evolution of the UK beverage market, including the rise of low and no-alcohol drinks and the growth of soft drink brands, the increasing focus on credentials such as B Corp certification and sustainability, and: the strategies UK businesses are adopting to navigate EU exports and international markets.

Len Bunton, Chair of the Steering Group of the Conflict Avoidance Coalition, and Neil Kelly of MFMac discuss disputes in the construction sector and the work of the Coalition. 

In our latest MFMac Food & Drink Podcast, Partner Andrew Walker speaks with founders Joe Harris and Paige Gibbons about their refreshing journey with Lonkero, exploring the story behind the brand, key opportunities, and what lies ahead.

In this podcast, Nicola Edgar and David Hossack discuss the work MFMac's Personal Injury team do to support those who have sustained injuries following a road traffic collision or those who have lost loved ones.   

Road Safety Week Series: In this podcast, Nicola Edgar is joined by Chief Superintendent Hilary Sloan, Head of Road Policing at Police Scotland to discuss the valuable work the Police do to prevent road collisions occurring and, when they do occur, the support they provide to those impacted.  

In this podcast, Nicola Edgar is joined by Lucy Straker, Campaigns Manager at Brake, the road safety charity, to discuss the work Brake do to support those impacted by road traffic collisions and the plans for this year's Road Safety Week Campaign.

In this episode, David Hossack is joined by Nicola Edgar to discuss the importance of taking a trauma-informed approach to personal injury.