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Integrated IP, Clark IP merge
Two intellectual property firms have merged in a strategic decision to position a new combined entity at the forefront of the dynamic and rapidly evolving IP landscape.
Grace Robbie
Effective on 1 November, Integrated IP (IIP), an independent firm located in Perth, officially merged with Clark IP, a boutique law firm based in Sydney, in which they will operate under the collective banner of IIP.
This strategic merger aims to position the firm advantageously within the rapidly evolving intellectual property sector, where many independent IP firms are currently undergoing expansion.
Matthew Yeates, the principal and managing director of IIP, said the partnership between the two firms will reinforce their presence “coast to coast across Australia and New Zealand”.
He also explained how this collaboration is designed not only to enhance their market reach but also to solidify their objective of becoming a top-five intellectual property provider in Australia and a top-three player in New Zealand by the year 2030.
“We’re over the moon to team up with David Clark and the Clark IP team. This merger really boosts our commitment to providing impactful IP solutions across Australia and New Zealand and helps us grow even faster. IIP is all set to keep up with our clients’ changing IP needs and attract top talent along the way,” Yeates said.
“This strategic move solidifies our position as a full-service IP attorney, litigation, and advisory firm, offering more resources, expertise, and comprehensive solutions across various sectors.”
Yeates also expressed how today’s clients are increasingly seeking IP law firms that go beyond merely delivering legal assistance and offer strategic insights tailored to their specific requirements.
“Today’s clients seek more than traditional IP services – they want firms that blend top-tier legal expertise with commercial insights, delivering the high-level impact of larger firms with a more tailored approach.
“By focusing on areas like IP strategy, advisory services, and litigation, we meet these evolving needs, providing a specialised service often associated with larger practices,” Yeates said.
As clients increasingly gravitate towards specialised law firms, Yeates has identified that the demand for strategic advisory capabilities presents a considerable challenge for the intellectual property sector.
“A key challenge as firms grow is aligning culture and expertise, especially as clients increasingly expect strategic guidance beyond traditional patent filings. This shift requires a broader skill set, combining deep legal knowledge with strategic advisory capabilities,” Yeates said.
To effectively address these challenges, he expressed how IIP is integrating advisory services that enable clients to make informed decisions regarding their intellectual property portfolios, ensuring a balance between immediate requirements and long-term strategies.
As IIP steps into this new chapter, Yeates conveys the firm’s enthusiasm for the vast opportunities this merger brings.
“What excites us is the unique opportunity to combine deep technical IP expertise with a client-focused approach that goes beyond traditional models,” Yeates said.
“And we aim to enjoy the journey – bringing energy and enthusiasm into every engagement.”
David Clark, the director of Clark IP and now principal and director of IIP, said: “I’ve known Integrated IP for 30 years since we worked together at a major IP firm. Joining forces with IIP just felt right because our values and vision align perfectly. I’m super excited to combine our strengths and lead IIP’s expansion in Sydney. Together, we’re ready to deliver top-notch IP services.”
