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IMC Créations is a French company specialising in anti-theft systems for vehicles, particularly commercial vehicles. Among other things, it sells locks for the side and rear doors of commercial vehicles. Mul-T-Lock belongs to the Assa Abloy group and specialises in high security locking and access control systems, in particular pick-resistant keys and locks. IMC alleged that Mul-T-Lock’s MPV 1000 padlock infringes its unitary patent EP4153830 and the corresponding Swiss national validation.

The dispute arises out of earlier proceedings between Heraeus Electronics GmbH & Co. KG (claimant) and Vibrantz GmbH (defendant), relating to European Patent No. 3215288. The Munich Local Division issued a substantive decision on 10 October 2025 addressing infringement and a counterclaim for revocation. Among other findings, the court partially revoked the patent in three Contracting Member States and dismissed the infringement action. In its cost decision, the court apportioned 40% of the costs to the defendant and 60% to the claimant.

It was foreseen that the requirements of the Unitary Patent Regulation (1257/2012) might result that old European patent applications (effective filing date before 1 March 2007) could be ineligible for unitary patent protection. The UPC has now confirmed the view of the EPO that this is indeed the case.

The Court of Appeal clarified the necessity of formal applications to maintain confidentiality in Unified Patent Court (UPC) proceedings when disclosing ordered information. This ruling arose from a dispute involving patent infringement and confidentiality claims between EOFlow and Insulet.

The Court of Appeal upheld the validity of Babek International Ltd’s trade mark after Iceland Foods Ltd challenged its registration. The judgment clarified that a trade mark must be a single, clearly and precisely represented sign capable of distinguishing goods or services. The court found that Babek’s mark met these requirements, rejecting arguments about lack of clarity and permissible variations. Iceland’s appeal was dismissed, affirming the trade mark’s validity and providing guidance on interpreting trade mark descriptions and representations.

Boehringer Ingelheim successfully obtained another interim injunction from the UK High Court against Dr Reddy, reinforcing its patent rights in ongoing pharmaceutical litigation. The article outlines the case details, the court’s reasoning, and what this decision means for patent enforcement in the UK.

EIP is pleased to announce the promotion of Catherine Howell to Partner, marking a significant milestone as she becomes the firm’s first home‑grown litigation partner. Catherine joined EIP as a Trainee Solicitor in 2015 and has progressed through every stage of the firm’s litigation practice, most recently serving as Managing Associate.

EIP is pleased to welcome Anders Hansson as Partner, bringing nearly 20 years of experience in AI, robotics, digital technologies, and European patent strategy. His industry and private‑practice background further strengthens our digital and high‑tech capabilities across Europe.

EIP is proud to be featured in The Times Best Law Firms 2026, a prestigious list based on peer recommendations across the legal industry. This recognition highlights EIP’s commitment to technical excellence, client-focused service, and innovative IP strategies. From high-value patent litigation to strategic portfolio management, EIP continues to deliver results that matter for clients in technology, life sciences, and engineering. This accolade reinforces our position as a trusted leader in intellectual property law.