News & opinion

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.

In the latest trademark battle of the UK supermarkets, Iceland has filed an application to register ‘King Prawn Ring’. Is this a genuine attempt to protect its iconic dinner party dish or simply a ‘fishy’ marketing ploy to grab headlines, asks Megan Taylor. She explains what the application reveals about trademark requirements and the ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’ of IP registration in the UK. 

When creating a brand extension strategy, IP owners could learn much from the easyGroup’s approach to strategic brand development and effective IP management.

The Indian Patent Office has issued a FAQ document clarifying the time limits and periods covered for declarations of use relating to patents granted in the country. We summarise the key points discussed. 

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.

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. 

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.

Counterfeit issues can spike in the summer months, warns Mariëlle Hoffer. Protect your brand assets effectively this season by taking these two strategic actions.