Following the strong response to our recent article on the 2023 filing figures, we would now like to take a look at the long-term development of intellectual property activity in Velbert. How has Velbert’s filing activity evolved over the past decade?
A clear pandemic-related decline can be seen in the years 2021/2022. Although the number of filings has since recovered, they remain below the very high levels reached in the mid-2010s.
Comparative Figures for 2023
In 2023, a total of 92 patents and 7 utility models were filed in Velbert. Based on a population of around 82,000, this corresponds to a rate of 112.2 patent filings per 100,000 inhabitants. For comparison (DPMA Annual Report 2023):
- Germany: 46 per 100,000 inhabitants
- North Rhine-Westphalia: 30 per 100,000 inhabitants
Velbert therefore lies well above both the national and state averages.
The picture is also above average in the field of utility models: with 8.5 filings per 100,000 inhabitants, Velbert exceeds the national average (7) and is slightly above the NRW value (8).
Note on the Statistics
Comparability is limited, as the DPMA figures also include PCT applications in the national phase as well as provisional filings, some of which are not published. The actual innovation rate in Velbert is therefore likely even higher.
Conclusion
For many years, Velbert has demonstrated exceptional innovative strength. Despite economic challenges, the city continues to rank well above the national and state averages in intellectual property filings – a strong signal of the region’s performance and creativity. Our firm has been actively supporting and accompanying this development for many years.