Abcor listed in 2021 World Trademark Review WTR1000

Every year many rankings of trademark agencies are published. These are important of course for us as an office and for companies seeking representative. The WTR1000 (World Trademark Review 2021) is regarded worldwide as the most important overview of trademark offices and companies in the field of trademark law. We are therefore proud and honored to be included in this year’s list of leading representatives in the Benelux. And with praise from our customers!

"ABCOR BV: Filing, prosecution and worldwide portfolio management are the bread and butter of contemporary boutique and WTR 1000 newcomer ABCOR. As most team members have previously held in-house positions, the side has an insider’s perspective on business needs and challenges. Leading the nine-person outfit is founder Theo-Willem van Leeuwen: “proactive, reliable and hands-on”, he thinks outside the box to build efficient brand management strategies with the greatest skill and care.”

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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?