Intellectual property policy
Our intellectual property (IP) is an important business asset and we aim to manage and utilize it effectively in order to maximize corporate value. Inventions and research results produced within the Group are protected as IP (patents/know-how) and we actively file for patents for inventions that are expected to make a particularly large contribution to the Group's business. Decisions regarding trademarks are made through discussion with the relevant business divisions and affiliate companies in a way that considers future plans for branding, products, advertising, and overseas expansion, and which takes cost-effectiveness into account.
Furthermore, we are working to strengthen our IP strategy to provide comprehensive protection for products and services that combine multiple IP (patents, copyright, trademark rights, etc.). Through this initiative, we will contribute to the sustainable growth of the Group by enhancing the synergistic value of the products and services we provide customers.
IP use
Our mission is to develop products and services that eliminate the negatives for our customers. We produce unique inventions, technologies, and research results that cannot be imitated by other companies, so by protecting these using patents and copyright, and through the active acquisition and strategic use of trademarks for the original brand names, product names, and catch copy associated with the products and services we deliver to customers, we are working to raise recognition of the FANCL brand.
For patents, we practice patent lifecycle management, including renewals for products when their functions are upgraded and preparation for when a patent term expires. For trademarks, we not only acquire trademarks for new brands or products, but also for elements that make a significant contribution to awareness of a product, such as terms used in advertisements and the like which express the characteristics or concept of a product when it is being renewed. In this way, we protect and utilize the rights of the FANCL Group.
We aim to maximize corporate value by implementing various IP activities in accordance with the lifecycle of a product, and we will continue striving for greater value.