Survey Reveals That UK Firms Aren't Protecting Their Intellectual Property

by Robin Pilgrim, LawAndTax-News.com, London

06 January 2005

Following the completion late last year of a survey on the matter, UK law firm, Thomas Eggar has warned that two thirds of UK SMEs are not protecting their intellectual property.

The firm has revealed that a staggering 67% of small businesses have failed to protect elements of their IP such as their name, logo, colour scheme, product designs and business processes, leaving them wide open to infringement actions.

Speaking with regard to the worrying survey results, Michael Camps, partner at Thomas Eggar, observed that:

“Innovation is a key element of maintaining a successful economy. By failing to register their intellectual property, UK SMEs are not only threatening their own profitability but also the country's ability to compete on an international scale."

He added:

“Entrepreneurs should also be aware that safeguarding intellectual property can help to attract potential investors. Registering their intellectual property can be simple and affordable, so we would urge more companies to take advantage of this protection.”

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