Nutraceutical Research Project

Project Case Study

EverEdge IP was approached by a nutraceutical research company to undertake an Intellectual Property Position Review on its unique manufacturing technologies. Due to previous experiences with intellectual property the client had chosen not to file patents and the Intellectual Property Position Review conducted by EverEdge Intellectual Property was to determine if this current approach to intellectual property protection was the most commercially optimal strategy.

About Client

The client is a specialist in the nutrient extraction industry. This involves extracting valuable an¬tioxidant compound polyphenolics from various fruits. The client employs an environmentally sustainable, water-only extraction system involving a number of proprietary technologies.

The Business Problem

The client had begun dialogue with a 31 billion Euro multinational cosmetic company for incorporating their nutrient extraction technologies into new cosmetic product lines. The client wanted to ensure their intellectual property strategy was robust enough to deal with such a large company and to ensure that they had the necessary information to strike the best possible deal. The client also wanted to know if other aspects of its technologies could be exploited or leveraged for the pending negotiation. If protection was available, the client wanted to know the likely extent of such protection and whether commercially it would be worthwhile pursuing.

EverEdge IP Solution

EverEdge IP worked with the chief engineer and marketing manager to conduct an Intellectual Property Position Review, which involved identifying and analysing the intellectual assets behind the client's innovative manufacturing processes, technologies and products. Extensive prior art searching by specialist U.S. firms recruited by EverEdge IP was employed to determine the strength and scope of the client's intellectual property. The client's intellectual property position was analysed and conclusions generated around the best strategy to protect the client's innovative technologies and how to manage the intellectual property being generated from future R&D. Following the analysis an Intellectual Property Strategy was formed that outlined how the client could leverage their intellectual property to best negotiate a deal with the multinational cosmetic company.

The Result

The client understands the strength of its portfolio, has the correct Intellectual Property strategy going forward and is better prepared for future negotiations.