The Official Magazine of IAAPATo protect the rights of our manufacturer and supplier members, IAAPA has adopted an Intellectual Property (IP) Policy. This policy ensures that any company purchasing exhibit space, advertising, or sponsorship through IAAPA must own or have rights to the products, content, and materials displayed. This policy applies only within IAAPA-operated activities and does not extend beyond our scope.
Tour button
IAAPA Intellectual Property Policy and Procedures
IAAPA's IP Program supports the enforcement and education of intellectual property rights through three key components:
IP Mediator
IAAPA retains a specialized IP attorney who serves as an independent mediator to help resolve disputes occurring within IAAPA events and services. This includes reviewing potential IP infringements and ensuring adherence to IAAPA’s rules.
Education
IAAPA offers webinars and guidance sessions to educate members on IP best practices, responsibilities, and protections.
Enforcement
IAAPA and the IP Mediator review claims related to IP violations across the following:
- Expo Complaints
If a violation is found on the show floor, the offending materials must be removed immediately. Sanctions may follow. - Advertising Complaints
Content in IAAPA publications found in violation may be removed or blocked from future use. - Sponsorship Complaints
Violations in sponsorship content may result in removal of sponsor acknowledgments and other applicable penalties.
Who It Applies To
The IP Policy applies to companies entering into contracts with IAAPA (exhibitors, advertisers, sponsors, members), but not to trade show attendees or the industry at large.
Policy Objectives
- Ensure that disputes at IAAPA events are resolved quickly and fairly
- Provide Participants with an IP Mediator for guidance and resolution
- Avoid business disruptions during IAAPA events
What Participants Agree To
Participants must not display or distribute any content that:
- Violates another participant’s intellectual property
- Is disruptive to IAAPA, the event, or fellow participants
IAAPA may enforce Sanctions (see below) at its sole discretion, in consultation with the IP Mediator. Participants agree to resolve any enforcement-related disputes through binding arbitration in Orlando, Florida, under JAMS rules.
- Who can file: Any Participant may file a complaint, free of charge.
- How to file: Submit a good-faith complaint with required documentation (e.g., IP Notice, Confirmation, Indemnity).
- What happens next: The IP Mediator evaluates the case. If a violation is found, IAAPA may issue Sanctions.
- Legal Protection: IAAPA and the IP Mediator are not liable for claims related to enforcement decisions and are protected against lawsuits such as defamation or unfair competition.
If a violation is confirmed, IAAPA may impose one or more of the following:
- Removal of products or images from exhibit booths
- Blocking content from publications or websites
- Revoking sponsorship privileges
- Voiding participation rights in future events
- Fines up to €3,000 per violation
Failure to comply with Sanctions can result in further penalties.
Participants with multiple confirmed violations may face escalated penalties as follows:
Second Offense
- Fine: $2,500–$5,000
- Seniority loss: 3–5 years
- Exclusion from next regional or global show
- Advertising and sponsorship bans for 1 year
Third Offense
- Fine: $5,000–$10,000
- Seniority loss: 5 years or all accrued
- Exclusion from 3+ events
- Membership loss: 1 year or more
- Permanent advertising ban
Fourth Offense
- Permanent loss of seniority
- Permanent ban from all IAAPA events, advertising, and sponsorship
- Permanent loss of IAAPA membership eligibility