The food and beverage (F&B) industry is a dynamic sector where innovation, branding, and consumer engagement are key drivers of success. Valuable intellectual property is being developed in this field, and it is vital to safeguard these valuable assets, from trademarks, packaging, and designs to food technology innovations and proprietary recipes. Additionally, businesses must navigate complex regulatory frameworks, including food labelling requirements and product approvals, to ensure compliance and market success.

 

Our F&B practice brings together deep expertise across a suite of intellectual property services.  We provide strategic legal counsel to help businesses protect, manage, and enforce their intellectual property rights. Our holistic approach to IP protection ensures that our clients maximise the commercial potential of their innovations while mitigating legal and competitive risks.

 

Our services in this field span different areas including:

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Trademark Protection & Brand Enforcement

• Advising on trademark selection and registration for brand names, logos, slogans, and product packaging
   

• Conducting trademark searches and clearance assessments to minimise infringement risks
   

• Managing trademark filings and registrations both locally and internationally
   

• Assisting with geographical indications (GI) protection for specialty food and beverage products
   

• Handling trademark oppositions, revocations, and enforcement actions against infringers
   

• Monitoring and enforcing trademark rights through cease-and-desist actions and litigation
   

Patents for Food Innovations & Processes

• Drafting, filing, and prosecuting patent applications for food products, formulations, and production techniques
   

• Conducting patentability assessments and freedom-to-operate searches before commercialisation
   

• Managing patent portfolios to optimise innovation value and commercial opportunities
   

• Providing legal and technical support in patent litigation for food technology disputes
   

Trade Secrets & Confidentiality Protection

• Advising on the protection of trade secrets to maintain a competitive advantage
   

• Drafting and reviewing non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) for suppliers, employees, and business partners
   

• Developing internal policies and best practices to safeguard confidential business information
   

Design & Packaging Protection

• Securing industrial design rights for packaging, bottle shapes, and food container designs
   

• Enforcing design rights against counterfeit or infringing packaging
   

Regulatory & Compliance Advisory

• Advising on food labelling regulations and compliance with local and international food safety laws
   

• Ensuring compliance with advertising and marketing laws, including claims related to health benefits and nutritional content
   

IP Due Diligence & Contracts

• Conducting IP audits and due diligence for M&A transactions and franchise expansions
   

• Negotiating and drafting licensing and franchising agreements for F&B brands, including co-branding agreements
   

• Negotiating and drafting food manufacturing, contract packing and distribution agreements for F&B brands
   

• Advising on cross-border IP transactions and joint ventures in the F&B sector