The reforms take effect on 1st October 2007 and reduce the
number of cases in which the Trade Marks Registry will oppose a
trade mark application. It will no longer oppose marks which
conflict with prior registrations. The holders of prior marks will
have to object themselves.
The changes were contained in the Trade Marks
(Relative Grounds) Order. The practical impact is that holders
of international and Community Trade Marks (CTMs) will have to be
more vigilant about trade mark applications in the UK.
Each UKIPO event will last for around two hours and will include
a presentation focussing on the trade mark system and the impact of
the changes to legislation. The event will conclude with a question
and answer session.
"These changes affect every trade mark applicant and holder, and
the Office is keen to ensure that as many of our customers are made
aware of the change in our procedures," said Robin Webb, director
of trade marks at the UKIPO.
The UKIPO events take place in London on 3rd and 4th September,
Birmingham on 7th September, Manchester on 10th September, Newport,
South Wales on 11th September, Leeds 14th September and Glasgow on
17th September.
