What is Section 2(e)(4) Refusal - Primarily Merely a Surname?

Acknowledging the full extent of brand infringement, FC Liverpool has attempted to register a trademark for the word Liverpool in an attempt to extend its scope of brand protection. These efforts have been unsuccessful following a heated public debate, with the United Kingdom Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO) rejecting the application due to the geographical significance of the city of Liverpool. Yet, Chelsea FC and Tottenham Hotspur represent examples of football clubs that have succeeded in their efforts to register trademarks for the words Chelsea and Tottenham. This viewpoint explores the seemingly subtle, yet significant, differences in these cases and explores the wider implications for brand protection.

Two sailing enthusiasts, Thomas Guy and Chris Jacobs, have developed an app for fellow sailors, allowing them to capture their experience in one place. SailTies brand has instantly become loved by the sailing community and naturally, its founders have smartly focused on brand protection through trademark registration from the very start! Read the full story of turning a sailing hobby into the beloved app.

“We focus on making simple and delicious chocolate, ethically sourced and without additives. That’s the real alchemy where you take something that does not exist and turn it into a reality that people can see, taste, touch and smell.” Jose and Julie first met in Culinary School in Seville and it has been their dream come true to establish Eonce Chocolate, a delicious brand proudly protected by Trama.