News
The latest insights, sector developments and case updates from Potter Clarkson. Explore up-to-date content from our experts and stay informed on the issues shaping the IP landscape.
.jpg)
What is the difference between intellectual property rights and intellectual capital?
In today’s increasingly knowledge-driven economy, intangible assets often matter more than the more traditional physical ones with companies competing with ideas, innovation and knowhow rather than with factories, machinery or ‘product’ alone.
Why IP matters in biochar: protecting and commercialising innovation in Europe’s fastest growing carbon removal sector
As Europe accelerates toward a net zero future, few climate solutions have seen momentum quite like biochar.
Licensing for sportstech: a strategic pathway to monetisation, commercialisation and global scaling
Innovation in sportstech is accelerating at an extraordinary pace.
Adjusting the hurdles: UK Supreme Court backs European test for software inventions
On 11 February, the UK Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling in Emotional Perception AI Limited v Comptroller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks¹ that reshapes UK practice on the assessment of computer-implemented inventions, aligning it with the European Patent Office’s long-standing approach.
Why brand is now the ultimate strategic advantage for fashion entrepreneurs
Fashion is one of the fastest moving industries in the world. Trends shift in days, new brands appear every week and consumers are smarter, more selective and more values driven than ever before.
Can I appeal an EPO opposition decision?
A decision of the EPO Opposition Division (OD) can be appealed, but only by a party who took part in the opposition proceedings and is adversely affected by the decision.
EPO opposition vs appeal
An EPO opposition and an EPO appeal are distinct procedures, each with its own character, timetable, evidential rules, and decision-making body.
From sketch to store, don't let anyone cut from your cloth
The reason you started your business was to bring your garments, materials and manufacturing innovations to market so the largest possible number of people can enjoy them.
Potter Clarkson recognised in WTR 1000 2026 rankings
Potter Clarkson is delighted to announce its inclusion in the 2026 edition of the World Trademark Review (WTR) 1000, a leading global guide that highlights the world’s top trade mark professionals and firms.
The EUIPO SME fund: a guide for SMEs
The Ideas Powered for Business SME Fund is a grant scheme designed to assist EU and Ukraine-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in protecting their intellectual property (IP) rights.
.jpg)
13th edition of the Nice Classification now in force
The latest edition of the Nice Classification, the international system used to classify goods and services for trade mark registration, entered into force on 1 January 2026.
EU trilogue opens regulatory pathway for plants developed using new genomic techniques (NGTs) to the benefit of agritech and foodtech innovators
In December 2025, EU lawmakers reached a provisional agreement on the long-anticipated regulation of plants developed using so-called new genomic techniques (NGTs) such as targeted mutagenesis and cisgenesis that enable plant breeders to make precise changes to a plant’s genome without introducing foreign genetic material.
.jpg)
Sportstech and the IP frontier: how do you protect sportstech innovation in the digital age?
In 2025, the global sports industry stands at a pivotal crossroads.
The European Parliament and Council reach provisional agreement on the EU “pharma package”
In a significant milestone, the European Parliament and Council reached a provisional agreement on the EU “pharma package” on 11th December 2025.
%203.jpg)
.MOBILE domain has launched: what you need to know as a brand owner
The new .MOBILE domain has launched opening up a major opportunity for brands operating in mobile-focused sectors. As digital experiences continue shifting toward mobile-first engagement, this new domain extension represents more than just another naming option. It represents a strategic investment in the future of your online identity.
.jpg)
How can you protect your brand against dupe culture?
Counterfeits have always come with their own vocabulary. Over the last few years words like “knockoffs,” “reps” or “replicas” and even - somewhat cheekily - “inspired” have been eclipsed by “dupes”. It’s a well-chosen term.