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Abcor team in World Trademark Review 1000

Abcor team in World Trademark Review 1000

The start of a new year often marks the beginning of new rankings of trademark agencies worldwide. Some of these rankings are particularly important to us because they are conducted by objective agencies and cannot be bought. The ranking is based on interviews with clients and companies we work with. One of the most important rankings is the WTR1000, an annual global ranking based on independent research by an objective team with feedback from our clients. » other-general
Louis Keijzer passes BBMM exam with flying colours

Louis Keijzer passes BBMM exam with flying colours

In January, the final oral exams were held as part of the Professional Training of Benelux Trademark and Design Attorneys. This exam marks the culmination of the two-year course. This year, 15 candidates from Belgium and the Netherlands were examined. Our colleague Louis Keijzer did particularly well. Both Louis and Abcor are extremely proud that he passed this practical exam as the best Dutchman. » other-general
Monique Granneman partner Abcor

Monique Granneman partner Abcor

As of September 1, 2023, Monique Granneman will transfer to Abcor European Trademark and Design Agency. With her arrival, Abcor is even better able to serve the growing customer base. » other-general
Recognition - why it is still relevant

Recognition - why it is still relevant

After almost two years, my role as the chairman of the BMM has come to an end. Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to achieve all the goals I have set. The recurring theme in my work has always been recognition. Recognition that intellectual property rights are crucial for the existence of businesses. But also recognition that BMM members, including IP lawyers, in-house lawyers, and BMM-recognized trademark and design attorneys are specialists. This is all the more important in order to be able to separate the wheat from the chaff, especially given the many crooks that seem to pop up constantly. » other-general
Abcor ranking IP STARS

Abcor ranking IP STARS

After being listed in the WTR1000, Abcor has also been included in the IP STARS ranking this year. Managing IP annually conducts research among IP-firms and their clients in 70 countries. Based on these results, a firm can be included in the IP STARS ranking. » other-general
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IP quiz Trademarks

Puma is one of the bigger sports and lifestyle brands in the world. The core-business is the design, development and sale of (sports) shoes, (sports) clothing and accessories. In 1960, Puma registered an international trademark for a device designed in 1958: the formstrip. Since then, Puma has registered approximately 90 formstrip trademarks with validity in the Benelux or the European Union. Puma claims that this is a serial mark. Monshoe is a wholesaler of women's shoes and related products. The company designs and develops Monshoe shoes which it largely markets itself. Monshoe sells its women's shoes under the brands Shoecolate and Pearlz. The shoe Shoecolate is offered in various colour combinations. Puma claims that Monshoe infringes its well-known formstrip trademark. Monshoe contradicts this and states that the average consumer will not perceive the device of Monshoe on the sneakers as a trademark. And if the public will recognize a trademark in the decoration, it will not make the connection to Puma. According to Monshoe, the formstrip logo is not a well-known trademark within the meaning of the BVIE and the UMVo. There is no likelihood of confusion because the sign does not or hardly evoke any association with Puma among the public. In light of the above, who is right? Does this constitute decorative use or linking to a well-known trademark?
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