INPI has just published its list of patent filers for 2024. Absent from the podium since 2010, French cosmetics group L’Oréal is back at the top of the rankings, taking third place thanks to a 30% increase in patent filings.
The beauty heavyweight filed 740 patent applications in 2024, compared with 570 in 2023, an increase of 30%, “the highest increase recorded among the top ten players in the ranking,” comments INPI. The group joins Stellantis (1289 filings) and Safran (1216 filings) at the top of the list.
“L’Oréal is also one of the leading holders of patents in force in France, with a portfolio of 5037 active titles at December 31, 2024.”
The LVMH group also features in the ranking. It ranks 43rd with 34 patent applications.
“Often reduced to their role of protection against counterfeiting, patents are in fact strategic tools with much broader benefits,” recalls INPI. “True intangible assets, they not only add value to R&D investments, but also generate income and attract investors. Amortizable, they contribute to the financial value of companies and play a key role in negotiations, particularly on the international stage. Patents are therefore essential levers for strengthening the economic and technological competitiveness of innovation players, offering them a sustainable competitive advantage.”
