Editor’s Note

Welcome to the Autumn 2020 edition of Brand Matters.

In this issue we remain focused on purpose, sustainability and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) issues, reporting on a number of developments relating to sustainability, including our recent podcast on sustainability in the fashion industry.

Similarly, data protection compliance continues to be a key concern for many businesses, particularly in light of the recent Schrems II decision that has made international data transfers much more challenging. We also report on the ICO’s Age Appropriate Design Code, requiring those providing online services likely to be accessed by children to ensure that their personal data is protected, and that there is a baseline of protection by default.

As we approach the end of the Brexit transition period, with negotiations between the UK and the EU continuing, we look at a range of issues where businesses will need to take steps to prepare so that they are in the best position for the new trading environment from 1 January 2021.

I hope you enjoy reading this edition, please do get in touch if you have any comments or wish to discuss any of the issues raised in more detail.

Sally Britton