EU

Louis Vuitton has successfully opposed an EU trademark application for ‘XL Sporting’ based on the trademark reputation of its iconic LV monogram. The EUIPO’s Opposition Division found that the differences between the signs were eclipsed by similarities in the arrangement of the two letters, thereby creating a similar visual overall impression, as Florence Chapin explains. 

Does the use of a fictitious date constitute a deceptive trademark in the EU? This is the question currently before the CJEU. Read our article to find out more.

Unique to European law, trademark seniority claims provide a practical and economical tool for trademark owners looking to consolidate national registrations. Nonetheless, seniority claims should be handled with caution to avoid irreversible consequences, as Pauline Pilaudeau explains. 

When creating or launching a new product to market, it’s tempting to think in terms only of patent or trademark rights. However, many products comprise a mix of different types of intellectual property, including patent, trademark, design, copyright and related rights.

With trademark attorneys uniquely placed at the cross-section of legal, product and business consulting, a broader range of skills is required to support clients and adapt to new industry trends and technologies. Little wonder this year’s MARQUES conference takes as its theme the ‘many traits of the trademark expert’, says Luke Portnow.  

A ruling by the European Patent Office’s Board of Appeal has clarified the allowability of amended claims via ‘intermediate generalisation’. Martin Kohrs outlines the decision and what it means in practice. 

Two world-famous sportswear brands recently came head-to-head in a battle over the trademark ‘footware’, with Puma objecting to Nike’s trademark on the basis that it is not eligible for protection, as Lisanne de Vries explains. 

It may be called the European Patent Office (EPO), but the EPO’s 2028 Strategic Plan outlines its international ambitions, as Martin Chaumont explains.

Trump win in recent decision by EUIPO's Opposition Division illustrates again the importance of establishing trademark evidence of use for prior marks.

Ghalia Ben Jdidia explains what Veuve Clicquot’s fight to protect its orange label reveals about the difficulties of establishing distinctive character when seeking to register a colour as a trademark in the EU.

Celebrities and influencers have now become 'brands' in their own right, but building a brand around your name and personality does not come without risks.

Finding the right balance between patent protection and legal certainty is a vital part of effective European patent drafting. The Order of the Court of Appeal issued by the Unified Patent Court emphasises the importance of precise drafting of patent claims to avoid ambiguities and guarantee the protection sought.