How we deliver this
The Fuel Method - mapped to Contract Reviews
Every Fuel audit follows the same three-stage method. Here is how it applies to this service.
Stage 01
Trace
We collect all contracts, addenda, SOWs, and any side agreements that govern the agency relationship.
Stage 02
Test
Fee structures, payment terms, and commercial arrangements are evaluated for competitiveness and alignment with your interests.
Stage 03
Transform
Optional support through the renegotiation process, including strategy, positioning, and response to agency counter-proposals.
Most agency contracts are written to protect the agency, not the client
Agency contracts are drafted by agency lawyers with agency interests in mind. Without expert review, clients frequently accept terms that limit transparency, create switching barriers, and allow hidden revenue streams. Contracts signed during pitch excitement rarely get the scrutiny they deserve.
Fee structures that incentivise spend growth rather than efficiency
Vague or missing transparency clauses around rebates and volume bonuses
Auto-renewal terms that lock you in without renegotiation opportunities
Unclear ownership of data, gen AI assets, and audience insights
Performance obligations too weak to hold the agency accountable
Termination clauses with excessive notice periods and exit penalties
Line-by-line analysis from specialists who know where the pitfalls hide
Having reviewed hundreds of agency contracts, we know exactly where problematic clauses appear and what good practice looks like. We benchmark your terms against current market standards and best practice frameworks, providing specific recommendations for improvement.
Reviewed hundreds of agency contracts across all major holding groups and independents
Market-rate benchmarking for fees, payment terms, and commercial arrangements
Specific focus on transparency, rebates, and hidden revenue streams
Practical recommendations: not just issues, but proposed contract language
Support through renegotiation if required
Knowledge of ISBA/IPA framework agreements and industry best practice
Our Process
A proven methodology refined across years of specialist engagements
Document Collection
We collect all contracts, addenda, SOWs, and any side agreements that govern the agency relationship.
Clause-by-Clause Analysis
Every clause is reviewed against best practice and benchmarked against current market standards for similar-sized relationships.
Commercial Assessment
Fee structures, payment terms, and commercial arrangements are evaluated for competitiveness and alignment with your interests.
Risk & Opportunity Report
Detailed report highlighting risks, opportunities, and specific recommendations with proposed contract language.
Renegotiation Support
Optional support through the renegotiation process, including strategy, positioning, and response to agency counter-proposals.
Typical timeline: 2-3 weeks
What's Included
Every element of our contract reviews service
What You'll Receive
Tangible outputs that drive real commercial impact
Contract Review Report
Comprehensive analysis with clause-by-clause findings and risk ratings
Commercial Benchmarking
Your fees and terms compared against current market standards
Transparency Assessment
Analysis of rebate, volume bonus, and hidden fee arrangements
Recommended Amendments
Specific proposed contract language to address identified issues
Renegotiation Strategy
Prioritised approach for contract improvement discussions
Best Practice Template
Framework for future contract negotiations
Expected Outcomes
Measurable results from our contract reviews engagements*
5-25%
Fee Savings
Typical reduction in effective agency fees through renegotiation
£50K-£300K
Hidden Cost Recovery
Annual value of undisclosed rebates and fees identified
2-3 weeks
Review Timeline
Fast turnaround for contract-focused review
8-15
Issues Identified
Average number of material issues found per contract review
*Based on outcomes achieved across previous client engagements. Results vary depending on the scope and complexity of each audit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about our contract reviews service
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