Register Your Trade Marks Without Delay! IP Office Changes Will Affect Your Registrations
Posted on in Intellectual Property
Expected from the end of 2025, the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) has announced a major change to trade mark applications, and it could significantly impact how organisations protect their brands.
If you have overlooked trade mark registration or you need to review your trade mark portfolio, you should do it without delay! The key message is to get your applications filed and to seek expert legal advice.
What’s changing?
Currently, organisations can file a series application to register up to six versions of a mark (for example, different colours) under one filing (i.e. one fee). This option will be completely removed under the new rules.
Why are trade mark applications changing?
The IPO’s 2023 consultation identified that series applications can often lead to confusion and inconsistency. The change aims to simplify the process. Many are rejected, and this is likely because applicants do not seek legal advice in advance (65% of series applications are filed by applicants without a legal representative).
What does this mean for you?
Simply put, this change means additional costs – unless you register without delay. Once the changes have come into effect, you will need to file separate applications for each version of your trade mark.
Existing series registrations will remain valid, but future filings will result in higher fees and more administrative work.
Next steps
You should ensure to:
- Audit your current trade mark portfolio and strategy and seek legal input.
- Action trade mark series registration, where required.
- Budget for additional filings moving forward.
How can Tozers help you?
Thoughtful registration of intellectual property lies at the heart of many a business success, and we can advise about how to maximise the protection available to you.
As a top firm for client satisfaction, we have built a reputation as good listeners who can help break down complex legal jargon into words you can understand and are experts at advising on your specific situation.
You can arrange to speak with us in a preliminary no-obligation call.