The event offers a great opportunity for in-house counsel to keep up to date on the latest issues, hear some international perspectives and network with peers. The seminar will consist of three presentations and a panel discussion, followed by an informal networking lunch:

Online enforcement

John Coldham will explore the different IP enforcement options available to brand owners, and how to build a strategy that is most effective on a limited budget. The nature of infringement has changed, but there are also many more ways to protect your brand now. From different litigation options to online take-downs, John will discuss various strategies and associated risks.

Look-a-likes

Lucy Stringer will take a deep dive into look-a-like decisions from the UK Court (the Court of Appeal's recent decision in Thatchers v Aldi and last year's M&S v Aldi decision). In particular she will consider the impact of these decisions upon brand enforcement strategy and how brand owners can best utilise these decisions to their benefit going forwards.

Good news / BAD news

Zoe Pearman will share recent news that we think brand owners should be aware of right now to help navigate the ever-changing landscape. In particular, she will cover how the regulators are adding to their enforcement toolbox with AI and new consumer law powers, greenwashing and who got caught this time, and some of the recent Government consultations around designs law and copyright and AI.

International brand issues

Most UK based brand owners need to have a strategy that works across Europe and beyond. We have invited a panel of our colleagues from France, Germany and the Middle East to discuss key considerations for brands when working across borders in an informal Q&A format. We will highlight some key considerations that all brands should have in mind, and discuss how to use different legal systems to achieve the best results and how to achieve more, with less.

We hope you can join us for a morning of insight, discussion and networking. If you have any in-house counsel colleagues that you think would also be interested in attending this seminar, please share this invitation with them.