Who we are

Houdini Heritage oversees the protection and enforcement of the HOUDINI trademark across the European Union. We ensure the integrity of Houdini’s legacy through strategic legal measures, licensing, and international cooperation, maintaining brand consistency and honoring Houdini’s cultural significance.

Houdini Heritage’s legal predecessor was founded in 1996 in Vienna, later established in Budapest, Houdini’s place of birth. The organization proudly continues Houdini’s legacy of trademark stewardship within the EU and internationally. Our pivotal role ensures that Houdini’s heritage of trademark management is respected and perpetuated across generations.

The House of Houdini in Budapest

What we do

Houdini Heritage manages intellectual property, safeguards the Harry Houdini trademarks, handles authorizations, and acts as the primary entity for all Houdini trademark matters in the EU and internationally.

Our responsibilities include monitoring for potential trademark infringements, handling registrations and renewals, negotiating and drafting licensing agreements, and providing expert consultation on trademark strategy.

How we do it

Houdini Heritage is dedicated to raising awareness about trademark rights, providing education and guidance to relevant parties, and maintaining open communication with both local and international authorities. We focus on education and resources about trademark management, ensuring all involved understand their rights and responsibilities. Our active liaison with authorities guarantees compliance and effective oversight of the Houdini trademarks, supporting proper use and robust protection across jurisdictions.

We organize educational activities for schools, publish informative materials, introducing Houdini’s heritage across our territory.

A rare copy of The Right Way to Do Wrong, inscribed by the author. From the Muller Collection.

Why we do it

Properly maintaining the Houdini name is not only a legal obligation—it is a matter of legacy, pride, and respect for the enduring impact of Harry Houdini. Our organization is committed to upholding Houdini’s legacy by protecting his trademarks and ensuring authenticity in all uses of his name. In doing so, we honor Houdini’s legacy, foster public trust, and ensure that the legend of Houdini continues to be associated with truth, innovation, and excellence. This commitment underpins every action we take, striving to make Harry Houdini proud by safeguarding his name for future generations.

Heritage

Houdini Heritage is the result of almost 30 years of planning and securing the necessary legal arrangements to protect our assets. Over the years, we have remained steadfast in our dedication to maintaining and defending intellectual property rights, ensuring that Houdini’s legacy is both safeguarded and celebrated. Notable milestones include the establishment of robust international trademark agreements and authorizations, which have solidified our authority in managing Houdini’s name and associated heritage. Above all, as an organization, we recognize the essential value of heritage preservation—both as custodians of Houdini’s enduring legend and as advocates for the responsible stewardship of cultural and intellectual property.

The time lock mechanism safekeeping our most valuable certificates, trademarks and mandates

Harry Houdini and his brother Theo Hardeen

Mr. David Merlini owner and Mr. George Hardeen, at The House of Houdini in Budapest

Organization

A rare breed of specialized IP professionals sharing the same passion for Houdini, united by the motivation to protect a name that became history. Founded by Counsel General Dr. Tibor Strasser ( † ), at the center of our operation is our in-house legal team and a network of internationally recognized and habilitated experts, as every country has slighly different forms to handle legal issues. Furthermore, based on EU law, each defendant must be held accountable in its country of residence.

Jurisdiction

Although Houdini Heritage’s primary jurisdiction is limited to the 27 countries of the European Union, we maintain extensive collaborations with Pan-European custodian agencies worldwide. This strategic network enables us to effectively extend the protection and enforcement of the Houdini name and trademarks beyond the EU, ensuring a comprehensive safeguard for Houdini’s legacy across all global markets.

“HOUDINI” is a registered trademark across the European Union

Mr. David Merlini owner of The House of Houdini and Ms. Sára Nemes Hegmanné vice president of the Hungarian Post, our offically licensed partner.

Affiliates

Houdini Heritage kft boasts a extensive network of trusted partners and licensing collaborations across Europe. These strategic alliances play a crucial role in safeguarding and managing the integrity of the Houdini trademark portfolio. As an example of our collaborative efforts, we have formed a partnership with the Hungarian Postal Service for the Commemorative Houdini Stamp, illustrating our commitment to working with key institutions to promote and protect Houdini’s legacy.

The Houdini Commemorative stamp, celebrating 150 years of Houdini’s birth

Contact Us

Reach out for trademark management and licensing opportunities. We are available to discuss partnerships and authorizations.

Houdini Heritage Kft. – Hungary –  EUTAXID: 25879359
E-mail: houdini.heritage@europe.com