December 2013 saw a UK first with the launch of a Government endorsed, industry-led initiative from ACID (Anti Copying in Design) with the launch of ACID Marketplace – a safer online IP platform where design buyers can view the latest designs created by ACID members who are supported by an enhanced ACID Design Databank and tracking system developed from ACID’s IP Tracker.
And January 2014 welcomes 6 new ACID Legal Affiliates to join its existing law firm teams DMH Stallard led by ACID’s Chief Legal Counsel Nick Kounoupias and Tim Ashdown and Newcastle Upon Tyne based McDaniel & Co team headed by Niall Head-Rapson and Kelly Hudson. Both firms have provided proactive advice for ACID members for many years and without whom ACID could not have offered its members such consistent support. Serena Tierney and Neil Emerson from Bircham Dyson Bell have already held two China focused events and are keen to offer branding advice and developing domain name strategies. Charlotte Duly and Sarah Merrifield of Boult Wade Tennant say, “Our aim is simple – we aim to work with clients, not just for them.”
ACID’s loyal friend Gavin Llewellyn of Davenport Lyons, no stranger to working at grass roots with ACID members during the early days, is joined by Jo Bixby and is keen to re-engage in all aspects of design and IP. Anthony Misquitta and Peter Wienand of Farrer & Co., have a fast growing IP litigation practice and non-contentious technology work which is gaining momentum. North West UK based Taylors headed by Tony Catterall and Elaine Hurn have a keen awareness of the home furnishings sector, manufacturing and software sectors and offer a full range of strategic advice. Finally, Venner Shipley’s team headed by ACID’s old friend Ian Grey supported by Alex Brown with a team of over 50 partners and associates are leading firms of EU patent, trade mark and registered design attorneys.
Access to initial free advice and reduced fees are available through a dedicated email access portal on a new ACID Legal Affiliate area of the website. Expanding the choice of country-wide events; co-branded seminars, specialist articles, tips and advice, corporate think-tank lunches, IP Audits, licensing and franchising expertise will also be supported by strategic and proactive IP strategies to protect IP rights. Supporting commercial relationships for ACID’s growing membership as it breaks new ground with ACID Marketplace is a key objective of all Legal Affiliates.
