The MarXman is a unique tool designed to quickly, easily and clearly mark a surface for drilling holes.
Creator, Martin Chard, came up with the product as he was fitting a sink and struggling to mark drilling positions on the wall. He began working on developing prototypes and created the MarXman marking tool.
Martin approached us for advice on how to protect his new invention.
We first conducted a background search to identify any similar ideas in the public domain. When the results were clear, we promptly drafted and filed a UK patent application to secure patent pending status. One year later, keen to maintain Martin’s rights but to delay foreign patenting costs, we filed an international (PCT) patent application. By the end of the procedure, not only had Martin attracted significant interest in the invention, but had established the key markets of interest. We then focussed protection in the jurisdictions which best protected the markets identified.
Meanwhile, we also protected the name ‘MarXman’ as a trade mark.
Needing to find an investor and mentor to grow the business, Martin appeared on Dragons’ Den alongside his wife and business partner Jenny. We helped Martin and Jenny prepare the necessary paperwork for their pitch, and held a mock den session in our offices, with our attorneys assuming the roles of dragons, to help hone their pitch.
Martin and Jenny were represented by partner Andy Harding, who advises many start-ups and is acutely aware of the unique pressures they face. He commented: “I am often the very first professional advisor a start-up enlists the help of. This gives me a unique insight into the business as it develops, allowing me to tailor advice accordingly. Moreover, it builds a close relationship with those involved and so it is richly rewarding to see them succeed.”
Martin and Jenny secured investment offers from all five dragons and chose to go with Deborah Meaden as their key strategic investor. Following the TV and media coverage, sales of the MarXman marking tool rocketed, and the product is stocked in DIY stores across the UK.
The MarXman marking tool device is protected by patents in key territories and the name ‘MarXman’ is a registered trade mark, helping to safeguard a market now worth millions of pounds.
The Marxman marking tool is available to purchase here.
