Similar Company Names - New Rules and Decision

On 1 October 2008, new rules relating to the registration of company names came into force. These allow companies to object more easily to the registration of a company name which could be confused with theirs. The new rules can be found on the website of the UK Intellectual Property Office at http://www.ipo.gov.uk/cna/cna-factsheet.htm.

Recently, a company called Coke-Cola was required to change its name following an objection from Coca-Cola. Coke-Cola was also ordered to make a contribution towards Coca'Cola's costs and to reimburse the company for the fee for filing its objection.

Contact us for advice on and assistance in protecting your intellectual property assets.

Partner Note
The new rules can be found on the website of the UK Intellectual Property Office at http://www.ipo.gov.uk/cna/cna-factsheet.htm.

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