Contract templates · Sales, Supply & Distribution
Appointing a distributor is often the fastest way into a new country, and one of the hardest relationships to exit. Some jurisdictions give distributors compensation rights on termination.
A distribution agreement appoints a distributor to buy and resell a supplier's products in a territory. It covers exclusivity and minimum purchases, pricing and orders, marketing and brand use, reporting, term and termination, and a post-term sell-off period.
When you need one
- Entering a new country through a local distributor
Key clauses in a Distribution Agreement
These are the clauses the template includes, and what each one does for you.
Appointment and territory
Appoints the distributor and defines the territory and channels.
Exclusivity and minimum purchases
Grants exclusivity in return for minimum purchase targets.
Pricing and orders
Sets wholesale prices, ordering and delivery.
Marketing and brand use
Controls how the distributor markets and uses the brand.
Reporting
Requires sales, stock and market reporting.
Term and termination
Sets the term, renewal and grounds for termination.
Post-term sell-off
Lets the distributor sell remaining stock for a period after termination.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Exclusivity without minimums, locking a territory to a poor performer.
- Ignoring EU and UK competition rules on resale price and territorial restrictions.
- Confusing a distributor with a commercial agent, who may have statutory compensation rights in the EU and UK.
How to use the template
Download the Word file
Buy the Distribution Agreement template on My Contract Lawyer and download the editable .docx straight after checkout.
Fill in the brackets
Add names, dates, fees, scope and governing law, and delete optional clauses that do not apply to your deal.
Check it against local law
Rules differ between US states, the UK and EU countries, especially for employment, consumer and property contracts. Have a lawyer review high-value or unusual deals.
Sign and keep a copy
Sign on paper or with any e-signature tool, and store the final version where both sides can find it.
Get the Distribution Agreement template
Lawyer-drafted and ready to edit in Word, Google Docs or Pages. One-time payment of $29, no subscription, instant download from My Contract Lawyer.
Frequently asked questions
Distributor or agent?
A distributor buys and resells in its own name; an agent sells on the supplier's behalf for commission and may benefit from protective agency laws.
Can I set the distributor's resale price?
In the EU and UK, fixing minimum resale prices is generally prohibited; recommended prices are allowed.
How long should the first term be?
Often one to three years with performance-based renewal.
Related contract templates
Templates are a starting point, not legal advice, and using one does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Contract law differs between countries and states, so check the finished document against local law.