The UK government issued its latest 'white paper' on the future relationship between the UK and European Union yesterday (12 July). Apart from general statements on the importance of IP protections, it did not mention or specify plans for how IP rights would be managed post-Brexit, other than in regards to Geographical Indications (GIs) and, to a lesser extent, the Unitary Patent (UP).
It has become common practice in modern advertising for innovation-driven companies to shout about the patent rights protecting their products, including marking products with patent numbers. Doing so also acts as a deterrent to infringers and can increase the likelihood of successfully claiming damages where infringement does occur. However, the practice does not come without risks, as Eric Siecker explains.
Fans of Federer at this year’s Wimbledon may be wondering why he’s no longer sporting the distinctive ‘RF’ logo on his tennis whites. That’s because the trademark is actually owned by his former sponsor Nike.
The need to file evidence of use can crop up in many cases and the requirement to show historic use can cause problems for businesses. Failure to provide adequate evidence could have a devastating impact on a case. Novagraaf’s Vanessa Harrow explains why preparation is key and provides some best practice advice.
It takes time, resources and money to create and launch distinctive and effective brands. But how can you be sure that the brand name you have chosen is really yours to use?
England football player has applied to register four trademarks at the UKIPO, covering clothing, footwear and headgear.
Licensing agreements are necessary to play copyright-protected music in clubs, bars, restaurants, hotels and even lifts, but what if you hire a DJ for a private function?
Tomorrow (15 June) is the UK’s national beer day, Beer Day Britain. In preparation for the nationwide communal cheers planned for 7pm, we take a look at some of the trademark issues around craft beer names.
As the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) grants a trademark right to Play-Doh to protect its distinctive smell, Novagraaf’s Trecina Surti looks at the challenges of registering scent marks in the EU.
Social media networks provide an opportunity to reach and interact with customers in new and, often, more effective ways. But these opportunities are not without risks.
The UK’s Minister for Intellectual Property, Sam Gyimah MP, confirmed on 26 April that the UK has ratified the Unified Patent Court (UPC) agreement.
With Prince Harry set to wed Meghan Markle on 19 May 2018, it will be no surprise that brand owners and retailers will seek to capitalise on the hype and goodwill around the latest royal wedding.