Brand Protection & Enforcement Strategies
Brands are increasingly under attack. The Advocate General’s recent opinion that Google’s AdWord’s system does not infringe trade marks weakens brand owners ability to retain control over their trade marks. Protecting trade marks against dilution is also proving problematic for brand owners following the ruling in Intel v CPM.
Furthermore, the recent decision in Nokia v Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs, highlights the limitations of the Counterfeit Goods Regulation in protecting brand owners against fake goods being shipped in transit through Member States. These recent rulings, combined with the volatile economic climate, means that brand owners, as well as their advisors, need to be aware of practical steps that can be taken to protect the value of their brands.
