WIPR Trademarks North America conference: a gathering of passionate IP professionals

I recently had the privilege of attending the WIPR Trademarks North America (World IP Review Trademarks USA) conference from 19 to 20 September 2023 in the beautiful city of San Diego, not just as an attendee, but also as a speaker. My presentation centered around the evolving IP landscape in Russia and Ukraine and what IP owners need to know. The experience was enlightening, and the positive feedback and interesting discussions that followed made me happy.

From discussions on corporate trademark strategies to the latest tactics and trends employed by counterfeiters, the event covered a wide spectrum of issues relevant to IP owners and other professionals. These presentations provided valuable knowledge that can be applied to real-world situations.

One of the highlights of the conference was the opportunity to connect with new colleagues. This event drew together IP professionals and experts from various companies, creating a diverse network of IP experts.

Communicating the learnings on IP in Russia and Ukraine

My presentation focused on providing an update on the current IP situation in Russia and Ukraine. These two countries are currently known to offer both unique challenges but also ongoing opportunities for IP owners. During the presentation, the attendees got to explore the IP field of this region, learning about the latest developments, potential obstacles, and strategies to navigate this complex terrain.

Given the various challenges at play, it’s crucial for businesses and IP owners to remain well-informed about the evolving IP landscape and to consider proactive measures to safeguard their intellectual property assets. These measures may include a periodic review and updating of IP portfolios, careful monitoring of IP-related risks, and seeking expert legal advice to navigate the complexities arising from the ongoing conflict.

I was pleasantly surprised by the level of interest my presentation generated among the audience. The questions asked related, for example, to whether any force majeure rules are currently applicable for trademark protection in Russia, and whether foreign applicants have faced any particular problems in protecting their rights in Russia.

Panel discussions from the IP owners’ perspective

The panel discussions provided a viewpoint from the lens of IP owners, addressing the challenges and opportunities that IP owners face when it comes to protecting, licensing, and defending their valuable trademark rights. The shared experiences and strategies provided a deeper understanding of the complex world of intellectual property and the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding these assets.

I especially enjoyed learning what IP owners expect from their external agents. And it is – proactivity and sharing the expertise, being the active part of the IP team.

Strategies for protecting trademarks on social media

Today, social media plays a pivotal role in brand management and IP protection. The attendees had the opportunity to gain insights into strategies for protecting trademarks on social media platforms. As social media continues to influence brand visibility and reputation, understanding these tactics is crucial for IP owners.

Valuable learning and broadening IP knowledge

In conclusion, the WIPR Trademarks North America conference was a great experience. It allowed me to share my knowledge about IP in Russia and Ukraine, connect with industry peers, and engage in informative discussions on a wide range of IP-related topics.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to participate in this conference, and to the organizers for putting together a well-organized event. The lessons learned about the importance of protecting and watching trademark rights in a digital environment and how to ensure that brand reputation is not dimished, as well as all the connections made during this conference will contribute to our collective growth in the field.