Business Details
32 Years
experience
Expert Licensing & Gambling Law Solicitors
Founded in 1994, Poppleston Allen has established itself as the UK's leading firm of licensing solicitors. Our expertise spans alcohol, gambling, entertainment, and retail sectors, serving clients from independent operators to multinational corporations. With offices in Nottingham and London, we combine deep industry knowledge with a client-focused approach to deliver practical legal solutions. Our team actively contributes to industry thought leadership through speaking engagements, publications, and government consultations. Recognised in The Legal 500 and Chambers, we maintain Band 1 rankings for licensing and gambling law.Our commitment extends beyond legal advicewe work closely with trade bodies to shape regulatory frameworks and promote sector growth. Through tailored training programs and accessible resources, we empower clients to navigate complex licensing requirements. Our track record includes defending high-stakes premises licence reviews and advising on major industry transactions. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, we continue to set standards in specialist legal services for the licensed trade.
Services
Premises Licences
Personal Alcohol Licences
Gambling Licensing
Pavement Licences
Wedding Venue Licences
Licensing Training
Regulatory Compliance
Premises Licence Reviews
Martyn's Law Compliance
Trade Body Representation
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years' experience in specialist licensing law
- Our firm maintains Band 1 rankings in Chambers & Legal 500
- We advise major national and international operators across multiple sectors
- Our team includes industry-recognised experts in alcohol and gambling law
- We offer integrated legal and training services for licensing compliance
What people say
Fantastic delivery
Knowledgeable team
Excellent training
Practical advice
Sector leadership
Services
Premises Licences
We provide expert guidance for obtaining and maintaining premises licences under the Licensing Act 2003. Our services cover application preparation, representation at licensing hearings, and compliance advice. With extensive experience in both contentious and non-contentious matters, we help clients navigate the complex regulatory framework while addressing potential objections from local authorities or residents.
Gambling Licensing
Our specialist team advises operators on compliance with the Gambling Act 2005 and related regulations. We handle licence applications, regulatory investigations, and compliance frameworks for both land-based and online operators. With sector-specific expertise since 2005, we help clients manage licensing obligations while minimising operational risks across all gambling verticals.
Personal Alcohol Licences
We support individuals and businesses with personal alcohol licence applications and renewals. Our services include application preparation, objection handling, and training for licence holders. We also provide the BIIAB-accredited APLH qualification through our training division, with both online and in-person course options available nationwide.
Licensing Training
Our training division offers accredited courses for personal licence holders and licensing professionals. We deliver BIIAB-certified programmes, bespoke corporate training, and local authority workshops. With flexible delivery options and experienced instructors, we ensure clients meet regulatory requirements while developing practical compliance expertise for licensed operations.
Premises Licence Reviews
We represent clients facing premises licence reviews by local authorities, police, or residents. Our approach combines proactive risk management with robust defence strategies to protect business interests. We handle all stages of the review process, from initial objections through to tribunal hearings, ensuring compliance while safeguarding operational continuity.
People
James Anderson
Partner
Specialist licensing solicitor with extensive experience in alcohol and entertainment law. Advises major hospitality operators on regulatory compliance and licensing strategy.
Nick Arron
Partner
Leading expert in gambling law with over 20 years' experience advising operators on compliance with the Gambling Act 2005 and regulatory frameworks.
Graeme Cushion
Managing Partner
Overseeing the firm's strategic direction, Graeme combines legal expertise with business leadership to maintain our position as the UK's leading licensing law firm.
Suraj Desor
Associate Solicitor
Specialises in premises licence applications and regulatory compliance for hospitality businesses. Provides practical advice on meeting licensing objectives while managing local authority relationships.
Andy Grimsey
Senior Associate Solicitor
Experienced licensing lawyer with focus on complex licensing matters, including high-profile venue applications and regulatory dispute resolution for national operators.
Questions
What areas of law does Poppleston Allen specialise in?
We specialise in alcohol licensing, gambling regulation, entertainment law, and related regulatory compliance matters.
Do you help with premises licence applications?
Yes, we provide comprehensive support for premises licence applications, variations, and renewals across the UK.
Are your training courses accredited?
Our APLH and ALPA courses are BIIAB-accredited and meet industry regulatory requirements.
Can you assist with licensing reviews?
We have extensive experience defending premises licence reviews by local authorities, police, or residents.
Do you work with international clients?
Yes, we advise international operators on UK licensing requirements and compliance frameworks.
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Reviews (2)
Lee Dee
Nov 01, 2021
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James @ Popplestone Allen was a true gent and able to advise me on licensing matters. Their website is second to none and a brilliant source of information. It covers a large variety of scenarios and topics, and if you can't find the answer, give them a call. check it out!
Lite Mk
Sep 24, 2019
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Simply the best at dealing with all licensing matters. Cannot thank Steve Burnett enough for his profound expertise and know-how. Saved our business.
