The Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), organizers of the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX), issued a new policy statement, “Protecting Your Intellectual Property Rights at AAPEX,” for exhibitors at this year’s event. AAPEX is slated for Tuesday, Nov. 5 through Thursday, Nov. 7, at the Sands Expo Center, Las Vegas, Nev.
AAPEX organizers have a zero tolerance policy toward intellectual property (IP) infringement and will work with exhibitors to resolve legitimate violation claims. Violating exhibitors face potentially severe consequences, which may include closing an exhibitor’s booth and a ban from future AAPEX shows, as well as the loss of seniority privileges.
The intellectual property etatement includes a general background of AAPEX and intellectual property issues at the event. This policy also provides an overview of the IP review process, a mechanism by which exhibitors can issue complaints regarding potential infringement with AAPEX management.
AAPEX management and its IP counsel will be available during AAPEX from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., starting Monday, Nov. 4 through Nov. 7 to receive and investigate intellectual property complaints at AAPEX. AAPEX welcomes any exhibitor concerned about a potential infringement to make use of this exhibitor service.
AAPEX management urges all AAPEX exhibitors to develop year-round protection and enforcement programs for their intellectual property rights (IPRs) and to utilize the IP review process to protect their intellectual property during AAPEX. AAPEX also recommends that exhibitors consult with an attorney experienced in the field of preserving and protecting IPRs.
To review the AAPEX intellectual property statement, visit http://www.aapexshow.com/2013/public/Content.aspx?ID=3089&sortMenu=103007.
