Keltie, a leading firm of European patent, trade mark and design attorneys, has opened its first office outside the UK with the news this week that it is commence business in Galway.
The innovative culture in the West of Ireland including global technology brands, a vibrant start-up technology scene and a globally-significant medical technology hub fits well with Keltie’s client profile, which ranges from start-ups and academic spin-outs to multinationals, including established and high-growth export-led businesses.
The firm’s expansion into Ireland is being led by Keltie partner Sean Cummings, who has family ties to County Galway and now lives in Connemara. Sean is an engineer with over thirty years of experience in the IP profession in London and has been a partner with Keltie since 1993. He commented:
“The West of Ireland is a hotbed of technologies that match Keltie’s traditional strengths, including medical devices, software and electronics, life sciences, renewable energy and marine engineering.
We see our expansion as the perfect opportunity to add to the existing business support infrastructure alongside solicitors, accountants and other professionals. Our award-winning people-focused approach is already attracting great Irish clients that we really enjoy working with.
Being acutely aware of the impact of Brexit, we acted to protect our position as EU-qualified attorneys. But by opening our new office in Galway, Keltie has not only cemented its place in the EU - it has joined the innovation community of one of the world’s most energetic cities.”
Sean and his colleagues in Keltie look forward to representing clients directly before the Irish Patents Office in addition to continuing the firm’s representation before the EUIPO, the EPO and the UKIPO.
Catherina Blewitt, Manager – West Region, IDA Ireland said “Keltie’s choice of setting up this office in Galway to service the European market is very welcome. IDA looks forward to working with the company as it builds out its business here.”