Dear all,

A thorough survey of our industry seems particularly appropriate for the uncertain times that we work in. The results will give us a benchmark to go forward from and will provide benchmarks in the discussions with the trans-national bodies of the European Union and World Intellectual Property Organisation whose decisions effect our business environment. Moreover, it will help picture businesses to know their market environment more profoundly and to learn how to respond to the current challenges.

But a survey is only as good as those who contribute to it and I urge you to contribute to the best of your ability. A survey is also only as good as the analyst and here we have the best. Professor Johannes Glückler of Eichstätt University has agreed to undertake the work and will deliver his preliminary findings in the opening session at CEPIC Malta Congress in June. Full data will be given soon afterwards to those who take part in the survey. Prof Glückler has already made an intensive study of our industry in Germany and two years ago delivered an influential paper in Cambridge University as well as conducting an industry survey for our German National Association, BVPA.

This survey complies with the highest standards of academic research. Data given by us will be anonymized and will be treated fully confidentially.

I commend it to you.
Alan Smith, President, Cepic.