Region: Europe

Illustrating the need for clear development of more abstract, simpler figurative marks, the Federal Supreme Court has essentially limited the scope of protection for a combination of basic geometric elements to cases of identity. 

09 July 2024

In a dispute over the refusal to register a 3D Volvo mark, the ECJ has held that headlights have become distinguishing features of vehicle brands and models.

08 July 2024

A recent decision of the UKIPO registrar emphasises the importance of filing notice of defence and counterstatement forms within the specified deadline.

05 July 2024

The EUIPO Fifth Board of Appeal has annulled the EU trademark PRISECCO based on the prior protected destination of origin ‘Prosecco’.

05 July 2024

When it comes to provisional refusals of trademark registrations in the Western Balkans – whether they are based on absolute grounds or an opposition – it is crucial for rights holders to understand the legislative processes and timeframes during which to respond across the different jurisdictions to avoid delays. 

04 July 2024

In what appears to be a first for Slovenia, the Ljubljana Circuit Court has replaced four categories listed in international TESLA registrations with smaller subcategories, without explicit request from either party.

04 July 2024

In this latest update, we look at the USPTO planning to host an AI and NIL roundtable, the Peruvian IP office ordering the blocking of 23 pirate sites, and much more.

03 July 2024

The decision highlights that the broader protection afforded by a ‘family of marks’ will be mitigated by factors such as the geographic extent of the marks’ reputation.

03 July 2024

The decision is interesting in that the Board of Appeal took judicial notice of many “well-known facts” concerning the jewellery sector.

02 July 2024

The Court of Appeal has confirmed that Alaska Airlines must pay Virgin at least a ‘minimum royalty’ under a trademark licence, regardless of whether Alaska Airlines makes use of Virgin’s marks.

02 July 2024