Renewal refers to the procedure by which a holder of intellectual property rights (such as trademarks, patents, or designs) extends the term of protection of their title beyond the period initially granted, within the legal timeframe. This process allows them to maintain exclusive rights of use and preserve the legal and economic value of the intangible asset.
In practice:
- Patents: protection can be maintained by paying annual fees (or annuities) until the maximum expiration date provided for by law (usually 20 years, for example, for a patent in France or Europe).
- Trademarks: renewal takes place at fixed intervals (usually 10 years). Unlike other industrial property rights, which have fixed maximum terms, trademarks are renewable indefinitely, provided the fees are paid and the mark is continued to be used.
- Designs: protection can also be extended by renewal, generally for successive periods (often every 5 years, up to a maximum of 25 years).
Renewal is therefore essential to ensure continuity of protection, avoid forfeiture of rights, and maintain the competitive advantage associated with the intangible asset.