Case Studies & Lessons
Mandy Haberman invented the non-spill training cup (Anywayup®) to solve a real problem: She filed patents, designs, and trademarks proactively. When imitators appeared, her IP protection enabled her to enforce rights and guard her market, while licensing and branding created a sustainable business.
Flash Electronics is an Indian component MSME that patented a regulator-rectifier device in 2014. Years later, it alleged that Royal Enfield, a large bike manufacturer, was using a version of that device without proper licensing. This case shows that even when you invent and patent, without clarity in your agreements and without monitoring, enforcement becomes harder — and value may leak.
For instance, Chinese firms that registered a name “BMN” with a logo similar to BMW were fined; BMW also acted against domain name misuse and cyber-squatters. These actions show that brand confusion risks are real, and that strong trademarks and enforcement can prevent dilution and misuse.
BMW & Rolls-Royce Trademark
When Volkswagen acquired Rolls-Royce Motors in 1998, they bought the company but not the rights to the Rolls-Royce brand and logo — which were owned by Rolls-Royce plc (the aerospace company). Without the trademark, they couldn’t market cars under the iconic name. BMW, which supplied engines to Rolls-Royce, acquired the brand rights for £40 million, securing both the logo and market advantage.
LESSONS
Even iconic brands can face costly setbacks if IP isn’t properly secured. For startups and SMEs, early IP clarity and strategic protection are essential to avoid similar pitfalls.
Lessons You Can Apply Now
Prioritize registering IP in markets where you plan to expand.
Use clear, strong descriptions in patents and trademarks so that protection aligns with your innovation and business.
Regularly audit your IP landscape: what competitors are doing, where your rights are weak.
Be prepared to enforce and defend — legal costs can be higher later.