25 – 26 March 2026 | Cape Town, South Africa
Champion strengthened its global brand – protection presence at EMEASec 2026, Africa’s leading summit on anti-counterfeiting, illicit trade, and brand protection. Represented by Chris Merchant, Global Head of Brand Protection , Champion participated in the exhibition as a sponsor and guest-speaker, positioning itself at the centre of Africa’s fast – growing enforcement and brand – protection ecosystem.
The organisers described the summit as “a platform for visibility, positioning, and strategic engagement ”, bringing together senior brand – protection professionals, enforcement agencies, customs authorities, and technology innovators.
Champion’s Role at the Event
Speaking Contribution
Chris Merchant delivered an engaging talk on cross-border investigations, online-to-offline enforcement, and emerging illicit-trade trends. This aligned with the event’s focus on “high-level insights from enforcement and policy leaders” and “brand-owner-led case studies on counterfeiting and illicit trade”.
Sponsorship & Strategic Engagement
As an official sponsor, Champion demonstrated our strategic objective to build international recognition and strengthen partnerships across key markets.
Exhibition & Technology Showcase
Champion IP exhibited its integrated platform for IP protection, investigations, intelligence, and security operations, demonstrating how technology, information, and intelligence can be combined to address the full needs of today’s IP and brand protection industry.
Key Themes & Objectives of EMEASec 2026
1. Combating Illicit Trade & Counterfeiting
The summit is described as “the most targeted Africa regional summit on Anti-Counterfeiting, Illicit Trade, and Brand Protection”, with sessions covering real-world case studies and enforcement challenges.
2. Strengthening Enforcement Collaboration
The event brought together law enforcement, customs, regulators, and private-sector investigators, supporting cross-border collaboration essential for effective investigations.
3. Technology & Authentication Innovation
A curated exhibition showcased advanced authentication, monitoring, and security technologies.
4. Policy, Regulation & Industry Insight
Attendees gained insights into regulatory changes, enforcement strategies, and emerging illicit-trade trends across Africa.
5. Strategic Networking & Partnership Building
Structured net working and curated meetings supported Champion’s goals of client acquisition, partnership development, and geographic expansion.
Why This Matters for Champion
Champion’s participation directly supports its 2026 strategic priorities:
- International brand recognition
- Geographic expansion across Africa and emerging markets
- Strengthening partnerships with enforcement and legal communities
- Competitive differentiation through thought leadership
- Intelligence gathering on illicit-trade trends and competitor positioning
Consistent presence in industry events strengthen sour reputation as a trusted, relevant, and international brand-protection partner.
Looking Ahead
Champion IP will continue its 2026 global events programmes, including upcoming conferences in Mumbai (August) and Bangkok (October) , further expanding its footprint across Asia.
