BREXIT has arrived and with it, the time to redefine and pay close attention to our intangible asset protection strategy in the United Kingdom.

Since February 1, we have been in what is called ‘Transition Period‘, which will end on December 31, 2020.

Until then, European Union regulations on the protection of intellectual property will remain in force for the United Kingdom. This gives us the opportunity to automatically convert our ownership.

However, this period is especially decisive for EU trademarks and industrial designs and international trademarks and industrial designs designated by the EU, since the conditions under which they are converted will depend on the status of their registration process until December 31 this year.

Below, we show how Intellectual property rights are affected within this new scenario:

Under these circumstances, our recommendations are:

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If you are considering applying for a new Trademark and/or Design in the EU, it is advisable to do so as soon as possible in order to ensure that your application is granted by December 31, 2020 and avoid having to take any steps or pay any additional fees, in order to continue to have your distinctive sign protected in the United Kingdom.

In any case, if your application is still pending on December 31, 2020, PONS IP will contact you to confirm whether you wish to submit new applications in the UK.

We will keep you informed of any new developments over the next few months. However, please do not hesitate to contact us to resolve any queries or questions regarding your intellectual property rights.

At PONS IP, our team of experts has the appropriate tools and technology to carry out a rigorous control and monitoring of all Trademarks and Designs affected by Brexit, thus ensuring their protection, security and continuity.