Strategy

Unlike trademark registration systems, which are national or regional by nature, the internet offers a global and potentially limitless market. Businesses with the same or confusingly similar company or product names can face a considerable challenge to mitigate the risks of brand confusion online.

We all know that a recognisable and trusted brand name is a powerful asset with clear benefits in terms of customer recognition, loyalty and goodwill, reputation and market share. The challenge lies in quantifying and communicating that value.

Drinks companies have diversified their products and ranges, and implemented new strategies in response to changing consumer preferences and the impact of both Brexit and COVID-19. But, what do these factors mean for brands' IP strategies moving forward? 

It is crucial to act promptly when submitting objections (or oppositions) to challenge potentially conflicting trademark applications. But, what is the opposition procedure – and how can brand owners make best use of it to protect their trademarks? V

The European patent system provides companies with an efficient structure for protecting inventions in Europe. However, there are a number of crucial points to consider if they are to make the best use of the system.

It is good practice to monitor trademark registries for potentially infringing trademark applications. The challenge is in developing the right watching strategy to avoid being swamped with results. Trademark Attorney Vanessa Harrow offers some advice.

On 21 July 2021, we gathered a panel of Novagraaf and industry experts to discuss the IP trends and challenges facing the spirits, wine and beer sectors.

Brand value is a key driver of merger and acquisition (M&A) activity, reflecting the growing importance of intangible assets. However, getting IP portfolios M&A ready requires in-depth, proactive work that many fail to carry out, potentially causing serious issues further down the line.

Apps provide brand owners with a new way to connect with and market to consumers, but how do you make the most of the opportunities while managing the risks of brand damage or infringement?

As a business grows, so too do the demands on its IP department. In an excerpt from our white paper, we set out the pros and cons of the fully in-house, fully outsourced and hybrid IP management models.

As the requirement to submit proof of use at the USPTO is different to practices in Europe, it can cause problems for brand owners looking to protect their trademarks in the important US market. Marianne Tissot and Marion Mercadier explain when evidence of use is required, and set out best practices for obtaining protection for trademarks in the US.

Phishing in the delivery sector has increased exponentially during the COVID-19 pandemic with businesses and their consumers being targeted by a range of sophisticated scams, as Andreas Juchli explains