New Year and time for Exhibition season to really get going!

Exhibitions are a fantastic opportunity to get eyes on your brand and products, and promote your business to a bustling audience. However, putting your creations out there for all to see can also come with risks from copycats looking for what they call “inspiration”; aka “IP theft”.

That’s why getting your IP in order before the show is vital. Whether you’re a seasoned exhibitor or setting up your stand for the first time, ACID’s Top Trade Show Tips will make sure you’re IP-prepared so you can get on with making the most of Exhibition opportunities.

1. Know your IP Rights

Strengthen and evidence your IP rights before going public.

Ensure your trade mark is registered in the correct classes and territories.

Make sure copyright work is recorded and you have evidence of ownership.

Check if your design is registered or registrable and properly protects your product.

Show you know your IP rights; for example, utilise ® for registered trade marks and © for copyright work and display the ACID IP statement, available to download from your ACID member hub.

Unsure of your rights or have queries about your IP strategy? Get in touch with ACID any time at [email protected]

2. Keep Evidence

Keep registration numbers and documents to hand/make sure you can access them quickly at exhibitions.

ACID members use the ACID IP databank for a Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU) endorsed certification and audit trail of your all-important creative journey.

3. Manage Risks at Exhibitions

If you’re an ACID member, display the Member of ACID logo on your stand! If you haven’t already, download yours now.

ACID always discourage allowing photography. ACID members can download our No Photography sign from their member hub.

If you do choose to allow photography, make sure anyone taking photographs asks permission first and obtain their business card in case of any suspected copying later!

Keep ACID’s details to hand and contact us any time at [email protected].

4. Monitor Competitors

Keep an eye on exhibitor lists.

Speak to the exhibition organiser if you are concerned.

Keep evidence of copied products.

Get in touch with ACID any time – we’re here to help.

5. Know the Trade Show Rules

Check the contract you have signed and understand the exhibition’s approach to IP infringement.

If the exhibition is ACID Accredited, make sure you know where the ACID stand is.

If you have any queries or concerns, whether an ACID Accredited exhibition or not, we are here to help.

Want to find out more?

Sign the ACID IP Charter and pledge your commitment to IP respect, ethics and compliance.

Find out more about ACID Membership.

Why not attend one of our free webinars? Find out about our events here.

Subscribe to our magazine and read all about our work and membership community.

Follow us on Social Media:

Website: https://www.acid.uk.com/

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To find out more about ACID’s work, our organisation, membership benefits or anything else, please email [email protected].