As a global provider of retail, packaging, and construction products expands across the world, Ally Law member firms have provided solutions at every step.
More than a decade ago, Michigan-based United Forest Products Industries, Inc., began a significant growth initiative, expanding its presence to 262 locations across nine countries. UFPI had already established a strong relationship with Ally Law member firm Varnum LLP, a Grand Rapids-based full-service law firm. Today, nearly a dozen other Ally Law member firms work with the company to provide coordinated legal counsel across jurisdictions, drawing on local knowledge and expertise to negotiate, document, and close dozens of transactions, and provide ongoing counsel with respect to day-to-day operations and other legal challenges.
Drawing on his positive experiences, Bradley French, vice president of international investment for UFPI, turned to Varnum for advice on how Ally Law could help the company pursue global opportunities, beginning with initiatives in Australia. Varnum recommended Ally Law’s Russell Kennedy, a highly respected firm with offices in Sydney and Melbourne. The initial transactions were successful, which set the stage for more collaboration between UFPI and nearly a dozen Ally Law member firms, to date.
Mr. French offers high praise for his Ally Law colleagues. “The best things about the Ally Law network are the communications, the coordination, and the smooth handoffs as we enter new markets where we need a trusted and value-driven partner. Ally Law firms are pragmatic and solution-oriented, which aligns directly with UFPI’s own value proposition. In the end, it’s not about the law-firm name, the flair, the size, the scale, or the resources. Although our relationships with Ally Law firms are very positive, it’s also not about the “feel.” Ultimately, it’s about the results and how Ally Law firms offer creative solutions to deliver those results — and at a fair and reasonable value for the client.”
Ally Law looks forward to many years of collaboration with United Forest Products Industries!
