June 24, 2016
Brexit: What happens now to EU-wide IP rights?
Brexit: What happens now to EU-wide IP rights?

It was announced this morning that 51.9% of the participating UK voters chose to leave the European Union.  

Stobbs is disappointed that the UK has decided to leave the EU. Whatever our political and personal views, the harmonisation of TM protection in a wider EU is a positive thing for our clients in simplifying their brand protection and in reducing cost. There will be no immediate change in terms of trade marks and brand protection – it will be at least two years before any change in terms of IP rights occurs, and Stobbs will be monitoring this process so as to be able to advise our clients effectively on their IP rights.

Whatever happens in relation to the UK’s participation in the EU TM system, we will continue to use our 20 years' worth of experience in dealing with this system moving forward and will make sure that we can represent our clients' interests in front of the EUIPO.

Our approach is to provide practical and business focussed advice on brand protection in the UK, EU, Europe and around the world. Our approach will not change. We will monitor any changes to how TM systems and laws work in relation to IP rights, and shall make sure that we proactively take these into account for all of our clients. This will undoubtedly create a little more uncertainty in how best to go about things but our ability to “thrive in the grey” will stand us in good stead!

If you have any questions or concerns about the impact of the ‘Brexit’ on your IP rights, please do not hesitate to contact your usual Stobbs advisor.

 

Tags
Trademarks /  Brexit /  Disputes

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