FAQs

What is an SDA and why are we implementing it?
Selective Distribution Agreements are often utilised by suppliers of high-quality products to uphold luxury brand positioning. Our goal is to ensure that all iS Clinical consumers receive the first-class experience they have come to associate with our brand, including premises, displays, services, storage, and professional oversight.

This SDA is a benefit both to the iS Clinical brand and our Account Partners as it provides an assured distinction that can be relied upon by all in support of this prestigious brand.

What other brands have an SDA in place?
Globally, most luxury and or premium positioned brands have SDAs in order to uphold their prestigious brand positioning. Examples include Gucci, Rolex, Estée Lauder and Tiffany & Co.

What type of criteria is included in the SDA?
Criteria included in these agreements should be familiar to Distributors and their Account Partners already; we are simply bringing them together in one document, so Account Partners have a set of clear and comprehensive expectations to reference. Luxury skincare professionals and retailers are likely already adhering to these expectations and may have even entered into similar agreements with other luxury brands. These criteria include qualified personnel and training, luxury displays, proper storage, brand guide adherence and diversion. This new agreement will also include the Internet Sales Policy.

What is the Internet Sales Policy?
This is detailed in the 2nd point of schedule B of the Selective Distribution Agreement. In short, it outlines the parameters for selling our brand in the online E-Commerce space. Please refer to this section of the SDA for further information.

How will a SDA benefit authorised Account Partners?
Selective Distribution Agreements are designed to allow luxury brands to grow, without sacrificing prestige. These agreements will help us maintain positioning, tackle diversion issues, and ensure iS Clinical continues to be perceived by the consumer as a luxury brand with high-value efficacious products. Retailers will benefit from this consistent messaging and enhanced brand awareness, ultimately drawing more consumers to their businesses.

Will Amazon be required to sign the SDA?
Yes, the Amazon Account is managed directly by the brand.

Is signing the iS Clinical SDA mandatory?
Yes, it is mandatory to ensure that your account can remain active and you are recognised as an authorised partner.

What happens if i don’t sign the SDA?
If you are unable to sign the SDA prior to our cut off date on 31st January 2023, we will place a hold on your account, and you will be unable to place and receive orders until you have signed the agreement.

What are the implications for Partners who do not sign the SDA by the deadline?
A hold will be placed on your account, and you will be unable to place and receive orders. Once the SDA has been signed your account will be reinstated.

Should I consult a solicitor before signing?
You are welcome to consult a solicitor at your own expense if you feel it is the right thing for your business.

Do you have Legal Counsel I can discuss this with?
Unfortunately we do not.

Can I amend the SDA?
Unfortunately not, this is the same document that every Account Partner with iS Clinical has been asked to sign and agree to globally.

Is the SDA compliant with Competition Law in the UK / EU / Caribbean?
Yes it is

What’s the deadline for signing the SDA?
31st January 2023

Is this just for iS Clinical or all HGI brands?
This agreement is for iS Clinical specifically.

Is it a lifetime agreement or do I need to renew it?
The agreement shall continue for an initial term of two years and will be formally renewed for additional 1-year periods thereafter, unless terminated by either party with 30 days’ notice.

The SDA mentions that I may only utilise and/or sell the products that I buy from you in the specific territory I opened my account in (i.e. UK, Ireland or Caribbean). What happens if my business is international and I have multiple sub clinics or my clientele is based in other countries?
In this instance, it is important that you raise this with us so that we can discuss with you on a case by case basis in order for us all to remain compliant to our respective contracts.

Schedule B point C refers to employment of one person with a clinical or medical background, I only employ therapists; what do I do in this instance?
As long as your therapists are minimum level 3 or ideally level 4 qualified you comply to this point. The agreement is international and therefore does not account for individual country qualification types.

How can I ask further questions?
If you have any further questions, please contact your HGI Business Growth Specialist, or contact us, or join us for our live webinar on Wednesday 18th January 5pm (GMT) where we will be explaining more about the SDA and answering any questions you may have. Register to join our webinar here.