In more detail
As mentioned in our previous client alerts (December 2023, January 2024, February 2024 and May 2024), IPOS piloted an avenue for interested parties to provide suggestions for descriptions of goods and services to be added into the Database.
The Database facilitates the search and classification of goods and services by trade mark applicants and agents for their trade mark applications.
Prior to this report, IPOS published two interim reports in February 2024 and May 2024, which updated the list of descriptions that had been accepted. Please see our previous client alerts (January 2024 and May 2024) for further details.
This most recent report also includes the more recently accepted suggestions received, including descriptions of meal kits, subscriptions and delivery (Classes 29, 30, 35 and 39), processed and fresh food specifications (Classes 29 and 31), as well as specifications regarding drone performances such as "entertainment in the nature of drone light shows" and "presentation of drone performances for entertainment purposes" (Class 41), among other goods and services previously added to the list.
Key takeaways
This IPOS initiative allows brand owners to continually review and position their portfolios, brands, goods and services, as well as assess the validity of their portfolio specifications, to ensure appropriate coverage and protection for future trade mark applications. Given that accurate specifications are important to preserve the reputation and goodwill that comes with protection conferred to trade marks via the statutory trade mark regime, we encourage brand owners to consider the updated specification list.
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For further information and to discuss what this might mean for you, or for assistance with submissions to IPOS, please get in touch with your usual Baker McKenzie contact.
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