Picture taken by IPR Group
The International Trademark Association (INTA) annual meeting never disappoints. It provides a unique opportunity for our attorneys to network with associates in every part of the world; forging new relationships, and deepening established ones.
This year’s meeting took place in Orlando, Florida at the end of May, and it surpassed all expectations, with a record number of attendees (in excess of 10,000). The five day conference was the forum for a full programme of seminars on all aspects of Trade Mark and IP related law and practice, as well as facilitating many useful exchanges of information on a more informal level.
Hot topics at this year’s INTA
An open exchange between in-house Counsel focusing upon best strategies to be used to enforce brands in the digital environment; a working group meeting to discuss the impact of 3D printing upon IP protection and enforcement; a debate centred upon the expanding scope of protection available for ‘non-traditional’ Marks (sound, shape & colour); and a discussion over the ever-complex balance of opportunities and pitfalls of brands interacting with the internet and social media.
Important to Albright IP, is the opportunity to network. Our Trade Mark Directors, Katie Oliver and Julia House, took full advantage of their time away from the office. With a schedule that took two months to plan, they took part in an average of 13 meetings a day. The result is that they have returned to their desks brightened by the positive feedback received from UK solicitors and foreign associates, and with the promise of new instructions to follow. In the same vein, they have strengthened existing relationships, and met valued new contacts. For our clients, this will continue to ensure that their particular requirements are met, and directed towards an associate that will be the ‘perfect fit’ in terms of expectation and cost.
Next May, the conference will be in Barcelona, and anticipation is already building. Albright will be well represented to ensure that our clients continue to benefit from the learning and networking opportunities that membership of the INTA organisation brings.
If you would like to receive a more in depth commentary upon any of the ‘hot topics’ mentioned above, or advice in relation to the wider protection of your Trade Marks, please contact one of our Trade Mark Directors, Katie Oliver or Julia House.