“Your own creation should be protected. A registration allows you to take action against another party that wants to make off with your product. It also helps you make the most of all the economic possibilities a design offers.”
The exclusive right to a design exists once the BOIP has registered your application. In contrast to trademarks law, a design does not have to be used in order for the design right to be maintained. Of course you do have to renew your design registration in good time and keep it up-to-date.