Protecting your designs

Your design is your capital. In sourcing you share your tech pack with many parties, so it is wise to protect it before you share it.

Three layers of protection

1. A non disclosure agreement (NDA): Before you send detailed designs, written in English and Chinese if possible.
2. Ownership clauses in the purchase order: Stating that designs and moulds are yours and are not used for anyone else.
3. Trademark registration: Register your brand in China and in your own markets, because registration in China generally goes to whoever files first.

Habits that reduce risk

• Share only what is needed at each stage.
• Split production across suppliers if the design is highly sensitive.
• Keep a record of who received what and when.
• Watch markets and platforms for copies.

A caution

Intellectual property law differs between countries, and registration has conditions and timelines. Consult an IP professional before you rely on any step.

Exercise

List what you need to protect in your brand: the name, the logo and the design. Write one step for each with a date.