Organisation: European Court of Justice

Thor’s hammer wins Volvo 3D headlights battle

In a dispute over the refusal to register a 3D Volvo mark, the ECJ has held that headlights have become distinguishing features of vehicle brands and models.

08 July 2024

Protected food names are in demand: what do producers need to know?

Clear guidance on the value of protected food and drink name status is vital to ensure businesses have the right amount of protection and are prepared to use it when needed, argues this week’s Saturday opinion.

13 January 2024

In the race to be a hub of innovation, the UK risks falling behind in its AI capabilities

A new legal framework may be required to govern AI and IP rights, especially in a globalised digital economy.

16 September 2023

When is a sausage not a sausage? A guide to plant-based branding

Increasing demand for meat-free products offers ample opportunity for small businesses and established brands – but naming restrictions and consumer confidence pose unique challenges.

28 March 2022

GI, PDO or TSG? How to choose the best options for traditional food and drink in Europe

Producers of traditional European food and drink have a buffet of IP rights to choose from. Baker McKenzie’s Claire France and Jessica Le Gros provide a straightforward guide to making the right selection.

29 July 2021

The problem with likelihood of confusion: why EU trademark law should rely less on ‘real consumers’

A new study analysing trademark infringement cases in the European Union has found that third parties are “being forced to use less effective trademarks” due to an imbalance in EU trademark law.

06 October 2020

Coop trademark decision highlights power of the pan-European dynamic injunction

A dynamic injunction issued by Italy’s Court of Bologna shines the spotlight on this invaluable IP weapon.

08 July 2020

Navigating geographical indications in the European Union

While European IP practice has begun to actively recognise and protect geographical indications, they are still treated with trepidation in the IP world.

06 April 2020

Belgian appeal court tosses SPA Mineral Water’s trademark infringement claims: third parties free to use and register SPA for cosmetic products

A groundbreaking decision of the Ghent Court of Appeal has significantly increased the chances for third parties to successfully register their SPA brand in Class 3 at the Benelux and EU level.

15 August 2019

EUIPO trends and top filers: 2018/19

Featured in Trademark register tracker

Less than a year into Christian Archambeau’s tenure as executive director, the EUIPO is laying the groundwork for future expansion. World Trademark Review’s annual focus on the office assesses current operations, reveals the most proactive filers and explores how the agency is taking a global view of trademarks.

29 July 2019