This month marks a significant milestone in our journey: the 15th anniversary of our Helsinki Office, also known as our Nordic Office. Murgitroyd is incredibly proud to have reached this remarkable achievement, and it’s a great moment to reflect on how far we've come.
The Helsinki Office is responsible for our Nordic operations, and proudly represent clients directly in Finland, Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, as well as in jurisdictions beyond the Nordics, including the United Kingdom, EPO, EUIPO, and WIPO. Our expertise attracts clients and continues to drive us forward as we serve clients on an international scale.
The Helsinki Office is a full-service IP firm, handling a wide range of IP services, including patents, designs, trademarks, utility models, and all other IP-related matters. Our clients range from small startups to some of the world’s largest and most influential firms, our team has been integral in delivering innovative solutions and exceptional service.
As part of our celebration and acknowledgement of this success, we asked Helsinki office lead, Robert Ljungberg to reflect on the IP landscape from the last 15 years, and for his prediction for the next 15:
How has the IP landscape in the Nordic region evolved in the last 15 years?
All patent applications at the Nordic patent offices can now be filed and examined in English, which was not possible before. This makes it more cost-effective when proceeding to other countries. Norway was the last country to change in this regard, and Murgitroyd was a leading force in pushing for that change.
The Unitary Patent has arrived, and this has led to the Nordic countries establishing courts and proper educations, exams, and registers, for patent professionals, helping to further strengthen and regulate the patent profession in this region.
Companies are now more aware that patents, designs, utility models and trademarks are important and part of their strategies for products and services and are seeking to protect their intellectual property more comprehensively and realise the true worth of their IP.
What do you predict for the next 15 years?
More quality applications, especially from small to medium companies in the Nordic region. I also predict that more work will be done only in English, as we see a number of larger Nordic companies often having English as the company language.
The new European design law will be implemented, and therefore we are sure to see more designs, and more cease and desist letters for designs as companies seek to fully protect their IP. In turn, designs will become a more effective IP right. Patents and trademarks will continue to be important, but I believe designs will have more prominence over the coming years.
What are the most prominent opportunities for businesses in this region?
Nordic countries have strong economies, and companies have highly educated employees, so it is set for industries that are innovation driven. Sectors such as green energy, like wind, hydrogen, and battery technology especially, in addition to healthcare, life sciences, e-commerce and digital services, are prevalent in the Nordic countries. Since these industries are innovation-driven, IP rights are essential considerations.
What advice would you give to companies in the Nordics to protect their innovation and brands?
Consider the full range of services and protection available for your intellectual property including patents, designs, utility models, trademarks, trade secrets, and copyright; and engage with an IP expert as early as possible. By doing so, companies can often save costs, improve development and tenders and provides better protection for the business.
A big thank you to our Nordic team
None of the success from the last 15 years would be possible without the dedication, expertise, and passion of our team in the Helsinki Office. A big thank you to the Helsinki Office for your hard work and commitment.
Here's to the next chapter of success as we continue to build on this strong foundation!
