IP Awareness and Understanding Among UK SMEs

Abstract

This report discusses the findings of the Intellectual Property Office’s (IPO) Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME) IP Awareness Survey, which explores and assesses the levels of IP awareness, understanding and perceived use among UK SME businesses in order to improve engagement and communication with customers whilst also assisting in future policy thinking. While the aim of the survey is to give an indication of the state of IP awareness and understanding in the UK across all SME business sizes, sectors of industry and business stages, the results from the Awareness Survey also offer insight into barriers to use and key sources of information for businesses that are looking for guidance on how to protect their IP. To complete this research study, IPO’s Customer Insight team partnered with Savanta, a data, market research and advisory company with more than 600 employees globally.