Property rights such as patents, trademarks or designs not only protect companies’ innovations, but are also a decisive factor for economic success. A study by the European Patent Office (EPO) and the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) impressively confirms that companies with intellectual property rights (IP rights) enjoy significant economic advantages.
Higher revenues through IP
According to the study, companies that own IP rights have on average 20 percent higher revenues per employee than companies that do not own such rights.
The effect is particularly positive for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). While only less than 9 percent of small companies own IP rights, their revenue per employee is 68 percent higher than that of companies without IP rights. These figures make it clear that intellectual property can have an enormous economic leverage effect not only for large corporations, but also for smaller companies.
More attractive salaries and competitive advantages
Another key finding of the study is that companies with IP rights pay on average 19 percent higher salaries than those that do not have industrial property rights. This indicates that the protection of innovations not only leads to increased revenues, but also to greater attractiveness as an employer.
Conclusion: property rights as a success factor
The results of the study show that industrial property rights play a decisive role in the economic success of companies. The registration of patents, trademarks or designs not only offers protection against imitation, but also contributes significantly to the competitiveness and attractiveness of a company. There is enormous, often untapped potential, especially for SMEs.
Companies that strategically safeguard their innovative strength increase their revenue, pay higher salaries and improve their market position in the long term. Investing in property rights pays off – not only as a security measure, but also as an economic growth instrument.
Our law firm will be happy to support you in identifying, registering and enforcing your intellectual property rights. Contact us for a non-binding consultation.