11.01.2023
Trade marks can apply to words, logos, colours, shapes, drawings, even sounds and smells. They are a badge of origin that allows a customer to see a brand or product, recognise it and know how they can repeat that transaction again.
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A trade mark is a reference point for individuals over what they are trying to protect - a name, something they wish to sell, the name given to a product or the masthead of a series of products. Some bigger brands have sub-names and sub-brands, allowing them to build up a relevant trade mark portfolio and enjoy more protection.
Trade marks are usually one of the first elements people look to secure when they have created a new product or service. It is often the case that they might create a name, brand and look for their product before looking to secure a trade mark. However, if the trade mark is unavailable, they may have to begin the whole process again to secure a mark which fits with the product.
Unlike patents, you can potentially own a trade mark forever if you continue to pay the renewal fees every ten years.
Image courtesy of MaximalFocus on Unsplash
21.01.2025
Thatchers Triumphs in Trade Mark TrialOn 20 January 2025, the Court of Appeal delivered a significant judgment in the case of Thatchers Cider Company Limited v. Aldi Stores Limited, ruling in favour of Thatchers in its trade mark infringement claim against Aldi. This decision overturned a previous High Court ruling from January 2024, which had dismissed Thatchers' claims.
17.04.2025
IPO Transformation Consultation IIOn 10 April 2025, the Government published responses to the second transformation consultation, which focused on changes to the IPO’s trade mark, design and tribunal services. This follows the first transformation consultation, published on 1 August 2023, which centred around the new digital patents service.
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