As you may have heard in the news, the UK has voted to leave the European Union. A focused period of top-level talks and negotiations will commence shortly to establish how the exit will be managed across every aspect of UK life and economy. We are very aware that our clients will be concerned about the impact of the changes upon their existing and future IP rights, and we will address any issues as and when they arise to ensure that the scope and validity of their rights are protected and maintained.
The point that we wish to emphasise today, is that for now it is business as usual and that there is no reason to panic. European Union Trade Marks and Registered Community Designs remain valid in the UK, and there is no foreseeable loss or restriction upon existing IP rights, nor any immediate reason to re-think the filing strategy that is to be followed for future protection.
The exit from the EU will involve at least a two year transition period, but this is more likely to be five to ten years, during which our government will seek to negotiate an alternative level of membership and access to the EU offices and systems that we currently enjoy.
We look forward to continuing to offer the high level of professional service and commercial support that Albright IP have always provided, and will of course be happy to address any particular concerns or issues that arise. If you have any immediate concerns or queries, please get in touch by phone or e-mail.
Robert, Adrian, Katie and Julia
Directors of Albright IP