Recent events have spotlighted a growing concern in the international business and legal sectors related to intellectual property rights and patent filing procedures. A specific highly-publicized case revolves around a company named Zotz, which designs and manufactures toys for children.
As described in a recent article on JD Supra, Zotz decided to expand its operations overseas. However, they encountered an unexpected complication. A different company, KnockOffSource, beat Zotz to the punch by filing for the same patents and trademarks that Zotz was planning to file for in their new market.
The question on everyone’s minds now is the future of Zotz’s operations in this new arena. Can Zotz proceed with manufacturing, or are they effectively blocked due to the prior filings of KnockOffSource?
The case is remarkably illustrative for other corporations and law firms dealing with similar international patent and trademark filings. It showcases the need for an even more in-depth comprehension of domestic and foreign filing procedures and rights.
The Zotz case first reached public consciousness through a publication in the Fall 2017 issue of Inside magazine, a publication of New York State Bar Association (NYSBA), by the legal firm, Tarter Krinsky & Drogin LLP.
In the fast-paced world of international business, staying one step ahead and understanding the unique rules of each jurisdiction could make, or break, the success of a product or service. The predicament faced by Zotz is a stark reminder indeed.