The Spanish footwear sector has launched a new organisation aimed at tackling counterfeiting and protecting intellectual property rights across the industry.
The Footwear Intellectual Property Observatory (OPIC) has been established by leading footwear organisations and legal experts to help businesses safeguard their brands, designs and innovations from infringement and imitation.
The initiative brings together industry bodies, legal specialists and intellectual property professionals to provide guidance, support and practical tools for footwear companies, particularly small and medium-sized businesses.
Its launch comes as footwear brands across Europe face increasing challenges from counterfeit products and fast-moving copycat designs. Industry leaders believe stronger collaboration and faster legal action are essential to protecting investment in design and product development.
Among its first projects, OPIC has introduced a design protection protocol to help businesses identify and respond to potential infringements more effectively. The organisation also plans to promote awareness of intellectual property rights through research, training and industry events.
The move reflects growing concern across the European footwear sector about the impact of counterfeiting and design copying on brand value, innovation and competitiveness.
By bringing together expertise from across the legal and footwear communities, the new observatory aims to strengthen protection for Spanish footwear businesses and support the long-term growth of the industry.
