Times of strife have historically been catalysts for innovation. As society comes to terms with life under lockdown and considers how we will live and work when we finally emerge on the other side, one thing appears clear: change is inevitable.Read more

The shock of COVID-19 to the business community has been sharp and severe. Many businesses across the country are currently questioning: How do we respond to, and manage, the challenges that COVID-19 is having on our business?Read more

James & Wells, New Zealand’s largest privately-owned intellectual property practice, and one of Australasia’s leading independent patent and trade mark firms, is expanding its presence in Australia with the acquisition of Brisbane based Innofy IP. Innofy is a perfect match for James & Wells. Both firms are aligned in their commitment to being a client focussed independent IP firm, privately owned by patent attorneys.Read more

New Zealand is currently negotiating a free trade agreement with the EU, a key part of which deals with the registration and use of geographical indications for wines and spirits, beers and foodstuffs. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade requires information from traders who would be adversely affected by this law change. Read more

The High Court has recently released New Zealand’s second ever plant variety rights infringement decision, (mostly) in favour of Zespri Group Limited.Read more

A recent case in the United States found that products must be marked with their relevant patent number to be eligible for damages for lost sales, caused by patent infringement. Read more

The competitive and fast changing business environment is posing new challenges for all businesses. An effective tool in combating these challenges is the development of an intellectual property (IP) strategy. Read more

The guide says “James & Wells is an unwaveringly independent IP boutique. Besides being one of the highest trademark filers in New Zealand, the team of ‘trustworthy, strategic counsellors’ is ‘good at thinking outside the box’ and offering ‘reliable and top-quality trademark advice’”.Read more

New legislation is set to abolish the Australian Innovation patent system. Read more

Cheaper and faster court resolution for IP disputes is on its way…maybe.Read more

Is virtual reality the new mixer? Our recent event, ‘Eats & Geeks’, brought together innovative Kiwi companies operating in the food, beverage and tech sectors to create an evening exploring the future of networking. From plant-based burgers to sheep milk gin, complimented by a sensory virtual experience, the future is happening right here in our backyards. Read more

What makes a design “new or original”? As design registration litigation is rare in New Zealand, this has not been comprehensively considered for 15 years. A recent IPONZ decision prompted the Assistant Commissioner to re-cap and summarise the relevant principles. Read more. Read more