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The international systems for trademark and design protection continue to expand with Brazil the latest country to file an instrument of accession to the design protection system and Mauritius acceding the trademark system. The more countries that join the systems the better for companies that operate internationally.
In December 2022, the EU General Court discussed the assessment of the likelihood of confusion in the context of the dispute between the holders of the ‘Well and Well’ and ‘WellBe Pharmaceuticals’ trademarks. Florence Chapin sets out its conclusions
Unfair commercial practices not only prevent consumers from making informed decisions; they also impact the bottom line and reputation of the impacted companies. Here's what you can do about it.
Trademark disputes can have starkly different outcomes in different jurisdictions, as demonstrated by a number of parallel EU and UK oppositions. UK Trademark Attorney Mona Asgari examines the different positions taken by the EUIPO and UKIPO in a recent opposition based on indirect confusion and emphasises the importance of local representation.
In response to recent uncertainty around the need for a UK address for service (AFS) for UK trademarks and designs, the UKIPO issued a Tribunal Practice Notice on 25 January 2023. Vanessa Harrow sets out the changes and offers practical advice for affected rights holders.
Read answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about when a UK address for service is required for UK trademarks and designs.
A November 2022 decision by the Boards of Appeal of the European Patent Office addresses several issues relating to the sufficiency of disclosure in patent descriptions.
When seeking to describe a particular characteristic, intended purpose or function of a product, you can reference another brand’s trademark. However, there can be a fine line between such informative use and trademark infringement.
Yet another country has deposited its instrument of accession to the Madrid System for international trademark registrations, with Belize joining the list of Madrid System countries as of 24 February 2023.
A recent finding of invalidity against sports brand Puma provides a valuable reminder of the need to obtain design registration within the designated 12-month grace period – and to be careful of accidental publication online.
Whether you choose to file a patent application or keep a new invention secret, it’s crucial to take steps to minimise the risks of disclosure. Rose-Marie Ehanno explains how to keep patentable inventions confidential.
When deciding on your IP enforcement and protection strategy, both the 'sword' and 'shield' functions of trademarks must be kept in mind, says Laura Morrish.