Gowling WLG

Firm overview:

Gowling holds its place in the rankings for a consistent trademark offering in China, with offices in Beijing and Shanghai. Gowling’s IP teams collaborate across several international offices including China, France, Germany and in the UK. It also maintains close ties with an established network of trusted firms in other jurisdictions.

As well as the Trademarks, Brands and Designs group, the firm offers a separate but complementary Brand Protection service, which tackles counterfeiting specifically. Both groups handle strategic and enforcement issues with international reach.

Team overview:

The firm provides a range of non-contentious and contentious services to multinational companies, including portfolio management and working with local counsel on litigation matters. The team has advised US investment bank Morgan Stanley on its trademark registration and opposition proceedings in China. On the contentious side, the firm has advised Vertu, a luxury phone manufacturer, in successful administrative proceedings for trademark infringement.

An example of this international work includes high-profile success in protecting Dyson’s trademarked Air Multiplier fan design. A large number of cases have been fought and won in China, and in more than 50 other jurisdictions around the world.

Peers recognise head of IP strategy, Elliot Papageorgiou, as a “leader in contentious IP matters” and “top tier for trademark prosecution”. Covering both Shanghai and Beijing, Papageorgiou works with international clients on their brand value, brand growth and strategic development of portfolios. When matters become contentious, he develops litigation strategies for trademark infringement matters in China and the Asia-Pacific region. International embassies have consulted Papageorgiou’s expertise on IP developments in the country.

Individuals:

• Jian Xu, Notable (Non-Contentious)