Origin Workspace is excited to welcome HGF, one of Europe’s leading intellectual property firms, to our Bristol coworking community.
With offices across the UK and Europe, HGF’s new Bristol office at Origin Workspace strengthens its presence in the South West and South Wales regions, rapidly becoming some of the UK’s most exciting innovation hubs.
From advanced engineering and aerospace to deep tech and creative media, Bristol is home to fast-growing businesses developing groundbreaking ideas. HGF’s arrival at Origin Workspace means local innovators now have direct access to world-class intellectual property expertise, including patents, trademarks and IP strategy.
HGF already operates across the UK and Europe, but the firm identified a gap in its geographic presence in the South West of England and South Wales. Bristol stood out as the natural next step. The city has built a strong reputation as a centre for innovation, technology and creative industries, with globally recognised strengths in aerospace, advanced engineering, sustainability and digital media.
For HGF, opening a Bristol office is about more than location. It’s about becoming part of a thriving ecosystem where entrepreneurs, engineers and creatives are building the next generation of transformative businesses. Choosing Origin Workspace in Bristol was a natural fit. The coworking community’s focus on collaboration, innovation and entrepreneurship aligns closely with HGF’s own values. Origin’s social impact also played a role. Profits from Origin support the Origin Foundation, helping inspire young people across Bristol and the wider region.
Supporting Bristol Businesses with Intellectual Property Expertise.
As one of Europe’s leading intellectual property law firms, HGF supports businesses through every stage of their IP journey.
Their services include:
HGF’s goal is to act as trusted advisers to innovative businesses, providing not only expert knowledge of UK and European IP law but also commercially focused advice aligned with each client’s growth strategy. With specialists across virtually every technology sector, Bristol companies working with HGF gain access to deep expertise tailored to their industry.
For the HGF team, Origin Workspace offers more than just office space. The vibrant coworking environment in Bristol reflects how they like to work, collaborative, forward-thinking and connected to the wider business community. The opportunity to participate in volunteering days and community initiatives also resonated strongly with the team. Both Jen and Tom live in the Bristol area and are passionate about supporting the region’s innovation ecosystem.
What Is Intellectual Property and Why It Matters for Startups
For startups and creative businesses, intellectual property can sometimes feel complex.
At its simplest, intellectual property protection helps businesses protect their ideas and innovations, whether that’s an invention, brand, design or creative work.
Strong IP protection allows businesses to:
For growing companies, intellectual property should not be treated as a legal afterthought. Instead, it should be viewed as a core commercial strategy.
Bristol’s Key Innovation Sectors Driving Demand for IP
The South West of England is widely recognised as an innovation powerhouse. Businesses across the region are developing cutting-edge technologies in areas such as:
With so many businesses developing new technologies and products, patent protection is often essential. At the same time, Bristol’s strong creative and digital sector means brand protection and trademarks are equally important for growing companies. HGF has been recognised as a Tier One firm by IP Stars, reflecting the firm’s expertise in helping innovators protect and commercialise new technologies.
Supporting Bristol’s Startup and Innovation Ecosystem
HGF plans to play an active role in Bristol’s growing network of founders, startups, universities and research institutions.
The region is home to world-leading academic institutions and a growing number of spinouts and deep tech ventures. HGF is keen to collaborate with academics, founders and entrepreneurs as they scale their innovations.
One notable success story is University of Bristol spinout Ziylo, which HGF supported with its intellectual property strategy ahead of its $800 million acquisition by Novo Nordisk. Ziylo’s founder, Harry Destecroix, later went on to establish Science Creates, now a key pillar of Bristol’s deep tech startup ecosystem.
HGF has continued supporting Harry and Science Creates for more than a decade.
Intellectual Property Events at Origin Workspace
As part of the Origin Workspace community, HGF plans to host IP workshops, seminars and networking events for founders and growing businesses.
The team is currently planning a lunchtime event where they will:
These events will help Bristol entrepreneurs better understand how IP can support their growth strategies.
HGF’s Vision for the Future in Bristol
HGF’s long-term ambition is to become Europe’s firm of choice for intellectual property. Achieving this means building strong personal relationships with innovative businesses and assembling expert teams who deeply understand the technologies they work with. In Bristol, the firm plans to grow its presence steadily, expanding its team and connecting with ambitious founders across the South West.
Advice for Startups Protecting Their Ideas
For early-stage companies thinking about protecting their intellectual property, HGF offers three key pieces of advice.
Meet the HGF Team at Origin Workspace
Jen and Tom are looking forward to making new connections, whether you are at the early idea stage, scaling your business, or simply curious about how intellectual property fits into your plans. If you would like to start a conversation about protecting your ideas, get in touch with Jen at [email protected] or with Tom at [email protected]
If you’re interested in a membership at Origin Workspace, get in touch here.
Kalvinder Kaur
Marketing Manager
Kalvinder Kaur
Marketing Manager
Kalvinder Kaur
Marketing Manager
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