Soft Focus
First edition
January 07, 2026
Soft FocusFirst editionJanuary 07, 2026 Welcome to the inaugural edition of Soft Focus, our international quarterly newsletter designed to keep you informed of the most significant legal developments in the dynamic world of soft intellectual property rights. As the landscape continues to evolve, our team brings you timely updates and practical insights to help you navigate the complexities of IP protection and enforcement across multiple jurisdictions. In this issue, we explore proposed reforms to design law in the EU, recent decisions shaping trade mark enforcement in the UK, and new guidance on copyright in the digital age. You’ll find analysis of cross-border disputes, the impact of AI on creative rights, and strategies for managing global portfolios. We also highlight regulatory changes affecting brand owners, creators, and businesses operating in sectors from fashion and technology to media and consumer goods. Key contacts
David Wilkinson Partner United Kingdom Petteri Häkkänen Partner Helsinki, Finland Caroline Lyannaz Partner Paris, France Thera Adam van Straaten Partner Rotterdam, Netherlands Beatrice Bigonzi Partner Milan, Italy Margarida Roda Santos Partner Lisbon, Portugal Paulo Sampaio Neves Partner Lisbon, Portugal Marta González Díaz Partner Madrid, Spain Kate Ellis Legal Director United Kingdom Chloe Gastrell Principal Associate United Kingdom Latest Events
in-person 2026 BDC Roundtable September 23, 2026 Washington DC, United States virtual Employment law in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia September 29, 2026 9.30am - 12.30pm (BST) Virtual virtual Energy Transition Series: Energy Transition and Pricing Volatility October 08, 2026 10:00 ET | 15:00 BST | 16:00 CET in-person Labor relations conference - turning legal change into workplace reality October 08, 2026 10.00am - 4.00pm (BST) London, United Kingdom |