In an increasingly competitive business environment, innovation and differentiation have become key drivers of growth. A recent joint study by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) and the European Patent Office (EPO) confirms that companies that protect their creations through Industrial Property (IP) rights, such as patents, brands y designs, obtain better economic results than those who do not.
The report, which analysed the performance of more than 119.000 companies in the 27 member countries of the European Union between 2013 and 2022, sends a clear message: Protecting innovation through industrial property translates into higher revenues and better salaries for employees.
The benefits of registering patents, trademarks and designs: more income and better salaries
The study highlights the following key points:
- Companies with industrial property rights generate 41% more income per employee than those that do not register any patent, trademark or design.
- Employees of these companies receive 22% higher salaries on average
- In the case of small and medium-sized enterprises, the difference is even more noticeable: SMEs with IP rights generate 44% more revenue per employee.
The report also highlights that Patent holders are those with the best economic performance: Their revenue per employee is 28,7% higher, and the wages they pay are 43,3% higher. Trademark and design owners also show positive figures, with increases of 23,3% and 29,3% in revenue per employee, respectively.
Prepared by the authors based on the study of the EUIPO and the EPO
SMEs with industrial property grow more
El Less than 10% of European SMEs own industrial property rights, while in large companies this percentage rises to almost 50%.
This gap represents a huge opportunity for small businesses, as data shows that Those that do protect their innovation are much more productive and profitable.. A correct protection strategy is key to differentiate, grow and compete on equal terms with large corporations.
In addition, small and medium-sized companies can benefit from the new call from the SME Fund “Ideas Powered for Business” 2025 launched by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO)This initiative offers financial aid that can be used to cover 50% of the costs associated (maximum €1.500) with the protection of trademarks, designs, patents and plant varieties.
Which sectors have the most industrial property registrations?
The sectors that stand out for their high activity in industrial property are:
- Information and communication (14,8%)
- Manufacturing (14,2%)
- Water supply, waste management and sanitation (12%)
- Professional, scientific and technical activities (10,7%)
These sectors are clear examples that innovation and the protection of intangible assets are key drivers of business growth.
Why does industrial property help companies grow?
Industrial property not only protects the creations of companies, but also gives them competitive advantages:
- Higher business value: IP rights are intangible assets that increase the value of the company and facilitate obtaining financing.
- Access to new markets: Trademarks and patents allow you to expand with greater security and recognition.
- Confidence Increase: Consumers associate brand and design protection with quality and innovation.
- Collaboration Ability: Patents and other rights promote strategic alliances and technology transfer.
Industrial property, a strategic investment
The EUIPO and EPO study highlights that Industrial property is a determining factor in the economic success of European companies. Whether large companies or SMEs, contribute to protecting inventions, brands and designs generates more income and allows for better salaries to be offered to employees.
En elzaburuWe know the value that industrial property gives to companies, that is why our TEAM of experts advises companies from all sectors on the protection and management of their intangible assets, helping them to maximize their performance and consolidate their position in the market.
