Aus firm acquires top IP specialist

The NZ practice employs 30% of the country’s registered patent attorneys

Aus firm acquires top IP specialist
One of New Zealand’s top IP firms has been acquired by IPH Limited, a Sydney-based IP services group. The $60.9m deal marks the first acquisition of a New Zealand patent attorney firm following the removal of foreign ownership restrictions on such firms earlier this year.

As one of New Zealand’s oldest and leading IP specialists, AJ Park employs over 200 people, including 30% of the country’s registered patent attorneys.

“We are confident that significant benefits will flow from being part of the IPH Group. Importantly, we will continue to operate under the same name, with the same high quality people, but will gain access to investment, technologies and networks that will enhance the way we deliver services to our clients,” said AJ Park managing partner Damian Broadley.

The deal is expected to close by 31 October, subject to certain restructuring and contractual arrangements, the receipt of necessary consents and approvals from third parties, and no material adverse changes.

According to IPH managing director David Griffith, the Australian firm was attracted by AJ Park’s market position, talent, and client list. “New Zealand is a strategically important IP market and the addition of AJ Park, which is a high-quality IP business, will strengthen our position as a leading IP group in the Asia-Pacific region,” he said.

IPH is listed in the Australian Securities Exchange, and hold other IP firm including Spruson & Ferguson, Practice Insight, Fisher Adams Kelly Callinans, and Pizzeys and Cullen.


Related stories:
KWM scores IP expert
Netflix nails ‘Stranger Things’-inspired cease-and-desist letter

Recent articles & video

Allens assists Seraya Partners with landmark acquisition of ASX lister

Law Council of Australia, ACT Bar call out underfunding in legal aid sector

NSW Law Soc, LexisNexis team up on AI Glossary

Report recommends US federal courts award monetary damages for workplace misconduct

Report highlights racial challenges faced by South Asian partners in the UK

Michael Best & Friedrich enters California market by absorbing Los Angeles law firm

Most Read Articles

Revealing the top influencers in Australia’s legal profession for 2024

HSF helps consortium wth Ulinda Park BESS project financing

Federal Court fines employer for failing to issue payslips

Lander & Rogers brings in digital economy practice head