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

Gender pay gap continues to persist: legal salary survey

Maddocks shows off new data and privacy tool

Moriarty Foundation CEO: Indigenous perspectives must be heard in the law

DLA Piper pitches in on FinTech Australia submission to draft law

Ex-UNSW Law dean named vice-chancellor of Western Sydney University

IBA: UK's plans to become AI hub could present opportunities for law firms

Most Read Articles

K&L Gates assists with launch of $190 million venture capital fund

Homegrown IP stars fly high at Bird & Bird

Two ascend to Kennedys Australia partnership

HSF announces new finance practice managing partner for Australia and Asia