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Drinks companies have diversified their products and ranges, and implemented new strategies in response to changing consumer preferences and the impact of both Brexit and COVID-19. But, what do these factors mean for brands' IP strategies moving forward?
It is crucial to act promptly when submitting objections (or oppositions) to challenge potentially conflicting trademark applications. But, what is the opposition procedure – and how can brand owners make best use of it to protect their trademarks? V
The UKIPO recently upheld an opposition by Cambridge University to a trademark application by Chadlington Brewery Limited, for the mark ‘Cambridge Blue’, claiming beers in Class 32. The decision offers a useful summary of the UK’s common law tort of ‘passing off’.
It is good practice to monitor trademark registries for potentially infringing trademark applications. The challenge is in developing the right watching strategy to avoid being swamped with results. Trademark Attorney Vanessa Harrow offers some advice.
On 21 July 2021, we gathered a panel of Novagraaf and industry experts to discuss the IP trends and challenges facing the spirits, wine and beer sectors.
Assumptions that the shape mark is dead may have been overturned this month, after the General Court of the EU found the shape of a lipstick suitable for trademark protection. While it is not easy to protect characteristics such as shapes under EU trademark law, the recent judgement provides hope for companies wishing to protect design elements or other features of their products.
A recent report by EUIPO on the risks and damages posed by IP infringement in Europe has identified that nearly one in 10 European consumers believe they have been tricked into buying counterfeit goods online.
The ruling in 'Museum of illusions' is a reminder that the assessment of the likelihood of confusion must be considered globally and cannot result from a mechanical application of the principles, as Florence Chapin explains.
Koen de Winder examines ‘image rights’ in the context of a Dutch model’s attempt to register her portrait as a trademark.
Gucci has pipped Rolex to the undesirable top spot of ‘most counterfeited luxury brand on TikTok’ in a 24-hour study of 40 popular brands on the app released this month. The research highlights once again the need to monitor and enforce IP rights on this popular platform.
Brand value is a key driver of merger and acquisition (M&A) activity, reflecting the growing importance of intangible assets. However, getting IP portfolios M&A ready requires in-depth, proactive work that many fail to carry out, potentially causing serious issues further down the line.
Apps provide brand owners with a new way to connect with and market to consumers, but how do you make the most of the opportunities while managing the risks of brand damage or infringement?