PicRights, a global leader in copyright enforcement, has added a new partner in Johannesburg, South Africa to monetize copyright infringements for the world’s leading news agencies, stock image agencies and independent photographers. No other copyright compliance service offers its clients as much geographical coverage of key markets around the world.
Stock Options, a well-known full-service production and footage house in Johannesburg with close ties to the stock licensing industry will handle copyright enforcement in South Africa, joining PicRights’ long established network in major markets in Europe, North America, South America and the Middle East.
“Copyright enforcement that works cannot be a purely technological solution; it relies heavily on the human expertise of our teams on the ground. Our chosen partner in South Africa has not only extensive experience in licensing content, but also a deep understanding of copyright and intellectual property. They will be an invaluable asset,” says Alfred Hoefinger, CEO of PicRights Europe.
“PicRights streamlined system allows enforcement teams, legal counsel and content owners to collaborate and exchange information quickly, regardless of location or time zone, which is a big plus for my team,” says Margi Sheard, Managing Director of Stock Options (also known as Greatstock).
Geographically, this provides a foothold for future growth as Africa is home to several emerging markets. “Stock Options has a considerable history in South Africa when it comes to producing and licensing both still images and footage and are perfectly positioned to act as a gateway to Africa for our copyright enforcement activities,” adds Geoff Cannon, VP of Sales for PicRights.
PicRights handles the challenging business of monetizing copyright infringements, allowing copyright owners to focus on their core business. Using state-of-the-art technology to identify infringements and a team of professional QC staff to qualify them as enforceable, PicRights delivers actionable cases to the appropriate enforcement unit for settlement and collection of licensing fees.