Applicants from the UK filed 12,527 European Union (EU) trade mark applications in 2015, making the UK the third biggest filer of trade marks with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), coming behind Germany (20,447 applications) and the USA (16,881).

Applications Continue to Increase

In total, 130,385 EU trade mark applications were filed in 2015 by applicants from around the world. The UK was responsible for 14% of the 89,420 applications filed with the EUIPO by applicants from the member states of the EU. There has been a continued rising trend in the number of EU applications filed over the past few years.

Behind the UK came Italy, Spain, France, China, Switzerland and Japan, according to the statistics reported by Eurostat, the statistical office of the EU.

Kate O’Rourke, President of The Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys said: “European Union trade marks are very important for our clients based here in the UK and abroad as they offer comprehensive protection for the entire EU market with one single registration, and the ability to enforce those registered rights with one action.”

Trade Mark Advice from SH&P

We work with clients of all sizes to protect their intellectual property – from trade marks to patents and design rights. We advise on protection in the UK, the European Union and further afield, helping your business to secure the legal protection you need in order to take the next steps.

Your first hour with one of our professional trade mark attorneys is completely free, so why not make an appointment today?