Patent law, trade mark law & UPC
On 23 and 24 September, the IP Days 2026 brought together experts from industry, the judiciary, academia and international law firms in Munich. Over two days, the focus was on current issues in intellectual property – artificial intelligence in the IP field, patent litigation and filing strategies as well as latest developments at the Unified Patent Court, trade mark portfolio challenges, software patents, SEP proceedings and IP transactions.
The IP Days provided a platform for expert discussion of the key challenges facing national and internationally oriented IP management. The focus was not only on new legal developments, but also on their practical significance for companies, rights holders, in-house teams and advisory law firms. The presentations and discussions combined strategic questions with insights from judicial practice, academia and day-to-day business.
The programme opened with the question of how artificial intelligence is changing the work of IP departments and IP law firms. This was followed by contributions on the continuing importance and relevance of national patent litigation and on the choice between national patents, traditional European patents and Unitary Patents. The patentability of software, the role of the Unified Patent Court in global SEP disputes and European long-arm jurisdiction were also examined in depth. In doing so, the seminar programme addressed key developments in European patent law and cross-border patent enforcement.
Further sessions explored the development and management of pharmaceutical trade mark portfolios from the development stage through to market readiness. The use of German unfair competition law to supplement design protection, or make up for missing protection, was also examined. An important session considered the benefits and challenges which arbitration in patent licensing disputes raises, but the opportunities of a successful resolution whilst avoiding litigation were highlighted. A practical look at failed IP deals involving start-ups clearly showed how crucial a clear IP strategy, thorough due diligence and early contractual arrangements are for investments and collaborations – whilst highlighting the different expectations and needs of each of the groups involved. An update on the EU Biotech Act – and how this could affect IP practices, rounded off the varied programme.
Alongside the insights from our experts, the IP Days were shaped by open dialogue and personal encounters. Between sessions, there was ample time for in-depth conversations and the forging of new international connections. The social programme took guests to Nymphenburg Palace and to an evening together at the Königlicher Hirschgarten. A visit to Munich’s Oktoberfest brought the event to a close – a fitting end to two intensive days that combined knowledge sharing, networking and Bavarian hospitality.
We would like to thank all speakers, guests and contributors for their input: the lively discussions and the special atmosphere really are thej hallmark of this event. The breadth of perspectives once again demonstrated the importance of international and interdisciplinary exchange in explaining how to effectively protect innovations, technologies, trade marks and designs.
The next IP Days are planned for 22 and 23 September 2027. We are already looking forward to continuing the conversation in Munich.
