Our hot topics session is designed to be interactive – it is the opposite of a 'talking heads' format! We host a series of tables where we discuss with you 'late breaking' topics in the areas of international sales, franchising and product law. The format is interactive, and topics are selected to be of current interest and likely to stimulate discussion and debate. Moderators on each table introduce and briefly discuss the table topic and then participants weigh in with their views. You will have the opportunity to discuss three topics. We have scheduled turnover times when the participants change tables to move to the next topic of their choice. By participating in the table discussions you will gain a greater insight into these areas, and the other participants and table moderators will benefit from your comments. The session will provide you with a great opportunity to meet many other lawyers and discuss topics of mutual interest with them. Many times at our tables, participants meet lawyers from other countries who they keep in touch with for years to come. Each year our table moderators comment that they 'learned as much or more' from the table participants as they themselves conveyed! Table 1. The impact of risk and compliance on cross-border sales and franchising agreements Table 2. The new EU general data protection regulation affecting all online and offline (sales) transactions Table 3. Solving the cross-border contracts maze, UNCITRAL/HCCH/UNIDROIT guide to uniform legal instruments in the area of international commercial contracts Table 4. The future of consumer protection claims against food and beverage producers: is there still a natural trend around the world or is there a new recipe emerging? Table 5. International Sales Risks and Mitigation Measures in Times of Trade War Table 6. The blockchain-powered franchise: how blockchain technology is poised to revolutionize franchising industry by 2020 and beyond Table 7. Playing nice with data: strategies for compliance with GDPR for franchisers and franchisees