Allan Poulter

I am a partner in the Intellectual Property Group based in our London office. With experience in all aspects of international brand management, protection and enforcement, I focus on portfolio management, legal clearance searches, contentious registry proceedings and global branding strategies.

I have experience as a barrister, trade mark attorney, solicitor and in-house counsel, when I spent three years as a director of the world's largest branding consultancy, and have represented the owners of many of the most recognised and valuable international brands. This broad-based background enables me to have a well-rounded view when it comes to assessing issues and advising clients on commercial solutions.

Cost-effective portfolio management is a must for clients and we have developed a team structure and processes that enable us to provide a high quality, efficient and commercial offering for clients.

I oversee the management of numerous international trade mark portfolios working closely with clients to ensure their brand protection reflects and supports the commercial interest of the business. I also assist with the smooth launch of new brands and the expansion of existing brands into new territories by identifying any potential risks and devising appropriate strategies to eliminate or reduce such risks to a commercially manageable level.

Multi-jurisdictional disputes are becoming increasingly common and require careful management which we can provide through working closely with colleagues in our international offices and with carefully selected preferred firms in countries where we do not have an office.

• Representing major US companies planning their launch into the UK and EU markets.
• Conducting international clearance searches for a medical devices company and advising on, and implementing their International brand management and protection strategy.
• Representing a major player in the crypto-currency market in a multi-jurisdictional trade mark dispute.
• Acting in multiple oppositions before the UKIPO and in taking action against the misuse of the Prosecco name.
• Celtic Rugby: advising the company behind the Pro 12 rugby tournament, on the protection of their trade marks including advising on the recent expansion of the league to include South African clubs and the rebranding to Pro 14.