Law360 named Perkins Coie Food & Beverage Group of the Year for its experience in the branded food industry.

David T. Biderman, a Los Angeles-based partner who heads the firm's Mass Tort and Consumer Litigation Group and contributes frequently to the food and beverage practice, stressed the teamwork that went into these successes.

“It does span multiple offices, and we really try to work as a team,” he said, adding that the collaborative approach has been particularly helpful in meeting clients' varied needs.

The practice has worked hard to develop expertise in a variety of areas to provide food brands a one-stop shop. Members also maintain a blog and frequently give talks and attend industry conferences to keep abreast of the latest developments.

“We find that really helpful with our clients when we can talk about what is happening in the marketplace,” Brewer said.

Changes in the retailer landscape and in consumers' tastes and eating habits have forced food companies to stay nimble and seek ways to continue attracting consumers, Biderman said.

Mergers and acquisitions have been another hot area in the food industry and look likely to keep up, Brewer added, noting the firm just closed one deal, and is currently working on an handful of others.

“I would say there have been more changes in the food industry in the last 10 years, maybe even the last five years than I could have ever anticipated,” she said, adding, “Will it at some point settle down? I'm not sure. There is a lot to keep up with.” Read the full article here.*

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