London takes center stage: INTA sets sights on the UK capital for its 2026 Annual Meeting 

New York, New York—May 18, 2025—The International Trademark Association (INTA) announced today that it will hold its 148th Annual Meeting, the premier global summit for intellectual property (IP) professionals and brand owners, in the heart of London, England, May 2 to 6, 2026. 

INTA CEO Etienne Sanz de Acedo revealed the news during the Opening Ceremonies of the Association’s 2025 Annual Meeting, currently taking place in San Diego, California. The San Diego event has drawn more than 10,000 registrants, including brand owners and professionals, government officials, business leaders, judges, and academics from more than 139 jurisdictions.  

“We are delighted to host the global IP community in London for our 2026 Annual Meeting,” said INTA CEO Etienne Sanz de Acedo. “As one of the world’s foremost financial centers and a natural meeting point for international business networks, London offers unparalleled opportunities for our members. Its position at the heart of global trade and commerce, combined with its history of innovation, makes it the ideal location for IP professionals to connect and collaborate on an international scale.” 

Home to numerous innovative companies spanning finance, technology, creative industries, and life sciences, the United Kingdom serves as headquarters for major global corporations, including AstraZeneca, BP, Diageo, GlaxoSmithKline, HSBC, Rolls-Royce, and Unilever, creating a vibrant legal and business environment ideal for IP professionals. The city continues to evolve as a hub for both startups and established brands, with growth in fintech, artificial intelligence, and sustainable technologies. This commitment to innovation is evidenced by the UKIPO’s Green Technology Report, which revealed patent filings for green technologies grew by nearly 400 percent between 2001 and 2020, far outpacing traditional fossil fuel technologies. 

“I am thrilled that INTA has chosen London as the host city for its 2026 Annual Meeting. This reflects the UK’s standing as a global leader in intellectual property, with a widely respected IP framework that continues to drive innovation and helps attract investment from across the world,” noted Adam Williams, CEO of the UK Intellectual Property Office (UK IPO).

Williams adds, “INTA 2026 will create valuable opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange. We look forward to welcoming INTA members to London next year and showcasing the best of British innovation and creativity. I know that this meeting will be a resounding success.” 

Excel London, the UK capital’s world-class convention center, will serve as the hub for the meeting. This state-of-the-art venue, located in London’s historic Royal Docks, has played host to internationally renowned exhibitions, conferences, and events, including the 2012 Olympic Games and Formula E. Excel features the UK’s largest auditorium and provides an inspiring, sustainable environment that perfectly aligns with INTA’s commitment to innovation and excellence. 

With an efficient citywide transportation system, world-class accommodation options, and an extraordinary culinary scene, London offers INTA registrants both convenience and inspiration. The city’s rich cultural heritage, combined with its dynamic energy, not only creates the perfect backdrop to conduct business, learn, and network, but also to have a memorable experience in one of the world’s most exciting cities.

“We are delighted to welcome the International Trademark Association’s Annual Meeting to London next year and to showcase the very best our city has to offer. The capital’s constant spirit of innovation and creativity continues to attract global organizations to view London as their ultimate event destination. In a world where professional development and brand presence are key, it is an exciting time to host this event. We look forward to making it a memorable experience,” said Suzanne Singleton, Head of Associations at the London Convention Bureau. 

Pre-sale registration for the 2026 Annual Meeting is now open and available until June 30, exclusively for INTA members registered for the 2025 Annual Meeting.

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