Trade Mark Protection and Reputation: Lessons from Louis Vuitton
When it comes to protecting your brand, trade marks are one of the most powerful tools available. But what happens when a trade marked brand faces potential misuse by another company in a different industry? A recent case involving Louis Vuitton demonstrates how far-reaching the protection of a well-established trade mark can be, especially when […]
Seasonal Products and Genuine Trade Mark Use in the UK and EU: What You Need to Know
As a business owner, you might be familiar with seasonal products—items that only appear during certain times of the year, such as limited-edition summer drinks, Halloween spooky specials or festive winter treats. But did you know that having a seasonal product can complicate the maintenance of your trade mark. It’s crucial to understand the rules […]
Balancing Creativity and Protection: How to Choose a Distinctive Brand Name
When it comes to developing a strong brand, your name and logo are vital. They represent not just your products or services, but your reputation and identity in the marketplace. But there’s a common tension between marketing teams, who may lean towards catchy or descriptive names, and legal advisers, who often take a more cautious […]
Rejection of Trade Marks on Moral Grounds: What You Need to Know
In June 2024, the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) rejected a trade mark application for tobacco products and electronic cigarettes on the grounds of morality. The application involved the term “Mary Jane,” which, while evoking images of shoes to some, is commonly recognised as slang for marijuana. This decision sheds light on how trade […]
Marvel and DC lose their “Super Hero” Trade Mark
As a business owner in the UK, safeguarding your intellectual property is essential to protect the unique aspects of your brand, products, and services. Whether it’s your company name, logo, or innovative product, these elements are what make your business stand out from the competition. But what happens when these crucial assets are left unprotected? […]
Levi’s vs FullCount: The Fight to Protect a Legendary Brand
When it comes to iconic brands, few names are as recognisable as Levi’s. Known for their classic denim and trade marked designs like the 501 jeans and distinctive stitching, Levi’s has built a reputation over the past century that carries significant value. But what happens when another brand tries to capitalise on this legacy? This […]
Why You Need to Protect Your Trade Mark – Even After Registration
You’ve taken the important step of registering your trade mark – a crucial move in protecting your brand and intellectual property. But did you know that simply registering a trade mark isn’t the end of the story? Owning a trade mark means more than just having your brand on a certificate – it needs to […]
Thom Browne vs Adidas:
Another Trade Mark Victory for the Luxury Fashion Brand Luxury fashion house Thom Browne has secured another win in its ongoing legal battle with Adidas, the global sportswear giant. The dispute centres around allegations of trade mark infringement, with Adidas claiming that Thom Browne’s four-bar logo too closely resembles its iconic three-stripe design. While Adidas […]
Why Trade Marking Is Vital for Your Brand: A Look at WWE and AEW
Trade marks are crucial in safeguarding your business’s identity, especially when your brand is part of the entertainment industry. Recently, WWE applied for a new trade mark for their tag team, The Unholy Union. Whether you’re in the wrestling business or running a local shop, the principles of intellectual property protection remain the same. WWE […]
The Importance of Trade Marking a Phrase: Protecting Your Intellectual Property
One of the most talked-about trends online over this summer has been the “Very Demure” meme. The content creator behind this viral sensation, Jools Lebron, recently found herself in a race to trade mark the phrase. After skyrocketing to internet fame, with countless brands jumping on the trend, Lebron attempted to secure her catchphrase by […]
