Last week, ECTA and EUIPO held their annual Bilateral Meeting at the EUIPO Headquarters in Alicante to discuss topics of mutual interest and importance, such as:

• Implementation of the EUIPO Strategic Plan and enhancement of engagement with the users;
• Latest updates on craft and industrial GIs as well as in the fields of copyright and patents;
• SME support and related plans of the Office;
• EUIPO’s implementation of the 14th package of sanctions against Russia;
• Feedback on the functioning of mandatory eAFAs and the IPEP tool;
• Security of the EUIPO systems and a number of procedural issues of everyday relevance to practitioners;
• Key recent case law and a number of other practical IP topics.

ECTA was represented by Carina Gommers (President); Paola Ruggiero (1st Vice-President); Benjamin Fontaine (2nd Vice President); Anna Ostanina (Head of Legal Affairs); Cristina Bercial (EUIPO-Link Committee Chair); Sarka Petivlasova (EUIPO-Link Committee Vice-Chair); Klaudia Blach-Morysinska (EUIPO-Link Committee Secretary); Aitor Pomares (Geographical Indications Committee Chair); Katri Kiviniemi (Design Committee Chair).

We are extremely grateful to the EUIPO for a highly productive meeting and the fruitful cooperation and open dialogue we have built over the years. We look forward to continuing our exchanges and cooperation in improving the IP landscape in Europe.

Early Bird registration for the ECTA 43rd Annual Conference, Bears on the Loose, in Berlin (18–21 June) is open - SIGN UP TODAY!

We will kick off our academic program on 18 June with a keynote on Diversity & Inclusion by ECTA member Myrtha Hurtado Rivas (Nestlé/Leaderching, CH). Learn more in her interview!

1. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your connection to ECTA?

I began my journey with ECTA as a speaker, which allowed me to share my insights and experiences. Subsequently, I joined the WIPO-Link and Law Committee. Being part of ECTA has proven to be an invaluable opportunity for me to stay updated on relevant topics within Europe, particularly in the fields of trade marks, designs, copyright, and enforcement.

2. What is your experience in Diversity & Inclusion, and why is this an important topic for the IP community?

As the daughter of immigrants, the themes of diversity and inclusion have been integral to my life since returning to Switzerland in my teenage years. I have faced challenges in being seen and heard due to my background, origin, gender, and unique perspectives. I recognise that I, too, can be prone to biases and unintentional exclusion.

Research has demonstrated that diverse perspectives lead to enhanced problem-solving and better outcomes. Companies with diverse leadership teams often outperform their peers financially. Thus, fostering a fair and equitable workplace is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic business necessity.

3. What aspects of D&I will you address in your keynote speech at the Annual Conference?

My keynote will focus on the tangible benefits of diversity, the importance of creating inclusive environments, and practical steps we can take to promote diversity within our organizations.

4. Why should Conference participants attend your D&I speech? Who would benefit the most from it?

My session will be beneficial for anyone interested in fostering business growth, enhancing team motivation, or contributing to an equitable workplace. I promise that the discussion will be engaging and thought-provoking.

5. In your view, why should IP colleagues attend the ECTA Annual Conference?

Attending the ECTA Annual Conference is the best way to remain informed about the most relevant issues in our field. It also provides an excellent opportunity to connect with new law firms and reconnect with established colleagues.

The ECTA Round Table in Alicante returns on 27 February 2025 (16:30-19:40), co-organised with the University of Alicante and Magister Lvcentinvs - IP Master of the University of Alicante. The event will be hosted at the University of Alicante (Salón de Conferencias, Edificio San Fernando, Calle San Fernando 40, entrance via Carrer Velarde).

The event is sponsored by PAPERZ IP.

**MAXIMUM CAPACITY HAS BEEN REACHED FOR BOTH THE MAIN AND OVERFLOW ROOM AND REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED..**

This year’s topic is "New Times for the Protection of Designs in the EU: What Will Change with the Reform?", featuring two insightful panels:

Panel 1: EU Design Reform and its Implications
Panel 2: Latest Design Case Law

The program includes a coffee break between the panels and concludes with a cocktail reception at the same venue until 21:00. Please consult the detailed program with speakers here.

The event is free of charge. As space is limited, please reserve your spot only if you plan to attend. Please note that once all seats in the main room will be occupied, participants may be placed in the overflow room.

In the coming days, the EUIPO will release the following improvements to the User Area:

🔹 15 February - New Login Screen
The EUIPO User Area login screen will have a slightly updated design. This visual change is part of an effort to enhance account and data security. The login process and your credentials will remain unchanged.

🔹 3 March - More Enhancements
The EUIPO will implement a clearer and more detailed view of your portfolio’s progress and status, such as improved EUTM timeline, streamlined EUIPO account creation process, enhanced settings management, including updated privacy preferences and subprofile options.

For support, contact customercare@euipo.europa.eu or call +34 96513 9100.