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The Importance of Trademark Searches: Lessons from the Popeyes Case
Leonard Cousins
In the competitive area of business, protecting your brand is paramount. The case of Popeyes v. Popeyes Takeaway serves as a reminder of the critical importance of conducting thorough trademark searches and securing intellectual property rights as early as possible. Popeyes, the renowned American fried chicken chain, secured its trademark for the name "Popeyes" in…
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Nadene Lomu v Stylez Limited [2024] NZIPOTM 33
Leonard Cousins
The recent case sheds light on the importance of trademark law, intellectual property rights, and the proper contractual processes. This case serves as a reminder of the complexities involved when it comes to trademarks, especially those associated with prominent figures. Background of the Case In 1998, the late Jonah Lomu, a legendary figure in rugby,…
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Is Your Brand Name a Lawsuit Waiting to Happen?
Leonard Cousins
Trademark Tips Every Business Should Know Naming your business is one of the most exciting early steps, but it’s also one of the riskiest if done without care. A name that turns heads can also attract legal trouble if it overlaps with an existing trademark. In both New Zealand and Australia, trademark disputes are more…
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Don’t Give Away Your Million-Dollar Ideas
Leonard Cousins
Smart, Simple IP Tips Inspired by Real Companies What do Apple, Google, and Pfizer have in common? They don’t just innovate – they protect. For any business, intellectual property (IP) can be one of your most valuable assets. But without the proper protections, those assets can walk out the door. Real Risks, Real Stories These…
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IP for Startups: Avoid the 5 Biggest Mistakes
Leonard Cousins
Understanding the essentials of IP can help your startup avoid common mistakes and ensure that your intellectual property is safeguarded.
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IP Policy: 10 Key Elements of an Effective Strategy
Leonard Cousins
Ensuring your valuable innovation does not end up in the hands of your competition requires more than good intentions and NDAs. A clear, enforceable intellectual property (IP) policy that aligns with your business strategy will support growth and success. This guide explains what an IP policy is and the 10 key elements it should cover.
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Freedom to Operate Search: Why Every Startup Needs One
Leonard Cousins
A Freedom to Operate (FTO) search is a critical step for startups. Without proper checks, you could unknowingly infringe on someone else’s intellectual property (IP), resulting in legal threats or a costly rebrand. This guide explains what an FTO search is, why it matters, how it’s done, and the real-world consequences of skipping it.
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A Practical Guide to Patents, Trademarks, and Copyright in NZ
Leonard Cousins
Understanding the differences between patents, trademarks, and copyright in New Zealand can help you effectively protect your IP and avoid legal and financial risks.
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5 Professional Lessons in IP Protection
Leonard Cousins
Intellectual property (IP) is one of your business’s most valuable assets. Yet many companies — often without realising it — leave their innovations exposed. A new product concept, a software tool, or proprietary research can quickly lose its value if not adequately protected.
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