Designs

We’re excited to announce that the 39th MARQUES Annual Conference will take place from 16–19 September 2025 at the World Forum in The Hague, Netherlands.

In sectors defined by rapid cycles and shifting consumer expectations, such as fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), IP is not just about protection, it’s about acceleration. The ability to secure, align, and commercialise IP at pace is central to how companies bring new products and services to market, and how they grow. 

Should ‘applied art’, such as furniture or modular design systems, be subject to a stricter test of originality in copyright law than other works, such as paintings or novels?

After almost 10 years of discussion, the reform of design law in the EU finally came into force on 8 December 2024. While this reform does not call into question the fundamental principles of EU design protection, it does introduce a number of important structural, process and material changes as we outline in this guide.

On 8 December 2024, the EU Design Reform package finally entered into force. Volha Parfenchyk explains what the changes mean for design owners in the EU.  

IP licensing can provide companies with additional (or core) revenue streams, enable them to raise brand awareness and enhance their reputation, and extend their brands into new markets and geographies. However, if IP ownership or validity is unclear, it can also pose significant financial and business risk.

When creating or launching a new product to market, it’s tempting to think in terms only of patent or trademark rights. However, many products comprise a mix of different types of intellectual property, including patent, trademark, design, copyright and related rights.

IP isn’t always the first priority for a business preparing for an initial public offering (IPO); however, the sooner you start thinking about your IP assets, the better prepared you’ll be.

Defining an IP strategy will enable nascent companies to prepare effectively for their future growth. Colombe Dougnac from Novagraaf’s SME and Startup team explains where to start.

Discover when, how and where to start when protecting a design via the European and international design registration systems with our practical guide.

Reinforce your business's foundation by boosting your intellectual property (IP) awareness and knowledge. Join us to explore the fundamentals of IP law in a comprehensive and practical webinar.

Intellectual property (IP) law is a dynamic and complex field of law. In this article, Valerie Annan gets back to the basics of IP education with a guide to the most important areas of IP law.