IP Intermediaries in Europe: A Web Content Analysis

Transactions in intellectual property (IP) assets occur either directly or with the assistance of a third party. Focusing on the latter, this paper explores IP, notably patent, intermediaries in Europe. Previous research mainly focused on more developed IP markets such as the Unites States and Japan, and little attention was paid to IP specialist firms in the European market for technology. Using online publicly available data from IP firm directories, we describe the geography of IP intermediaries operating in Europe along with other functional characteristics. Applying a content analysis technique to the activities reported on IP intermediaries' websites, we derive information on their service offerings and degree of specialization. By examining IP intermediaries' characteristics, their services and the relationships between them, we discuss the co-evolution of IP intermediaries and the European market for technology. The limitations of the study and avenues for further research are presented finally.