Swiss Trademark authorities continue to amaze us. Earlier this year the trademark I-phone was denied. This time the Swiss authorities decided to refuse the registration of the mark MADONNA for clothing, jewelry and perfumes. The reason for this being that the Italian part of the Swiss population uses the name Madonna to refer to Mary of Nazareth. Since 75% of them is Catholic the trademark was deemed to be offensive, when used commercially, to this part of population. The fact that there were already 233 other MADONNA trademarks and the fact that it is also the name of a famous artists had no desicive influence on the decision.
In a mildly related case the European Union’s stance seems to differ greatly. Recently the trademark FUCKING HELL has been registered for beer. This trademark was deemed not to be offensive, since Fucking is a place in Austria and “hell” is the German word for light colored beer.
Call us: 071-5763116 or send an e-mail to: info@abcor-ip.com
Abcor specializes in applying for trademark and design rights. We do this worldwide for both SMEs and international companies, but often everything starts with an initial Benelux application. Our aim is to relieve the client of all the worries, which is why we take care of all the steps, from initial advice on what to apply for and how, right through to registration.
In addition to applying for trademarks, we also manage portfolios for our clients. We ensure that trademarks are renewed on time, that the right organizations are paid (given the many fraudulent companies), and we support our clients on issues.
In addition, we are sparring partners for our customers on new products and how to shape and claim new ideas.
Een korte introductie tekst over de nieuwsbrief waarin je uitlegt wat het is. Hoe je direct de nieuwste editie kunt lezen en hoe je je kunt abonneren. And click here for all the numbers.
Among others in this issue:
• EUIPO vs Mora TV: weigering geluidsmerk
• Jägermeister vs Alte Heiler: stop Russische copycat
• Stichting Nederlandse Top 40: gericht op Benelux?
• Tijdschrift HART vs Hermitage: soortgelijkheid
• Monique Granneman: nieuwe partner Abcor
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Tel: 071-5763116
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E-mail: info@abcor-ip.com
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Visiting address Belgium
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Abcor is a member of the following industry and quality organizations: Benelux Association of Trademark and Design Law, International Trademark Association, Advertising Law Association.
