Many innovators and product developers view patents as expensive or unnecessary—but are they really? The truth is, the most successful technology companies, both large and small, file patents for every major innovation.
If you’ve invested time, money, and resources into developing a new product, patenting your idea can protect your investment. Without one, competitors could copy your concept and launch their version within hours of your product going live.
In today’s digital age—where global marketplaces make replication easier than ever—being first to market is no longer enough. Let’s tackle four common misconceptions about patents, and uncover a powerful advantage many overlook.
1. “Patents Are Expensive.”
Before dismissing patents on cost alone, ask yourself this:
What would it cost you if your competitors copied your unique selling points (USPs)?
If they could replicate your product without incurring your R&D expenses, they could undercut your price and claim your market share. That potential loss is, in essence, the value of a patent.
When the value of protecting your innovation outweighs the cost of obtaining patent rights, patents become an investment, not an expense.
2. “We Don’t Have the Money to Sue for Patent Infringement.”
It’s true—litigation can be costly. However, most patent disputes never reach court.
In fact, the majority are resolved through correspondence, negotiation, or settlement.
Owning a patent gives you leverage, discourages infringement, and allows you to handle disputes efficiently without resorting to full-scale litigation.
3. “I Had a Patent Once—No One Copied Me, So It Was a Waste.”
Actually, that’s a success story.
A patent often works as an effective deterrent, stopping competitors from copying you in the first place.
It’s difficult to measure prevented infringement, but legitimate businesses rarely risk reputational and financial damage by violating another’s patent rights.
4. “Big Companies Will Copy Me Anyway.”
Not likely.
Established brands rely heavily on their own intellectual property portfolios and typically avoid behavior that could undermine their credibility or lead to bad press.
Reputable companies avoid knowingly infringing patents, especially when IP is central to their business model.
The Hidden Benefit: Patent Box Tax Relief
Here’s a bonus: patents can reduce your corporation tax through the UK Patent Box scheme.
Profits from patented inventions may qualify for a lower rate of Corporation Tax, providing an additional financial incentive to patent your innovations.
Learn more here: Use the Patent Box to reduce your Corporation Tax on profits – GOV.UK.
Are Patents Really Expensive – Or Just Misunderstood?
When you weigh the potential losses from imitation against the cost of protection—and factor in patent-related tax relief—the real question becomes:
Can you afford not to patent your innovation?
Need Help with Patents or IP Protection?
If you have any questions or need intellectual property advice, contact us for a free initial consultation.
📩 Email: vicki.strachan@strachanip.co.uk
🌐 Website: stranchanip.co.uk/contact
