Enforcing Patent Rights At German Trade Fairs: An Effective Tool Against Competitors

From a patent law perspective, trade fairs carry significant risks but also offer far-reaching opportunities. Obviously, trade fairs provide companies with a visible platform to present new products to the public and clients. In the spotlight of public attention, exhibitors will want to avoid surprises. They need to ensure that competitors do not interfere with their presentation at the fair. On the other hand, for patent owners, trade fairs are a suitable forum to take efficient steps against infringement of their patent rights.

For either side, this requires taking proactive measures and determining their strategies well in advance of the fair. In view of the large number of upcoming international trade fairs in Germany, such as IFA, Automechanica, and MEDICA, patentees as well as exhibitors should be aware of the current state of case law in Germany and the potential scenarios.