Veillor

Advanced Trademark Monitoring

[Veillor @VeillorX]

Coca-Cola Files Trademark for 'Spricy'

The Coca-Cola Company filed a federal trademark application for the word mark 'Spricy' with the USPTO. The filing indicates a bona fide intention to use the mark in connection with soft drinks.

The application was made public in recent days and has drawn attention as the company previously discontinued a spiced beverage variant. No specific product launch details have been confirmed.

Trademark records show the mark covers beverages under relevant international classes. Observers note it could relate to a spicy flavor profile or serve as a marketing element.

This development follows standard USPTO procedures for intent-to-use applications in the beverage sector.

Sources: https://t.co/4ZztlWCpYL https://t.co/H9owWF1F5R

https://t.co/7yJFHFTiG0

[Veillor @VeillorX]

Magistrate Allows Limited Fraud Claims Against Apple TM

In the Northern District of California, Magistrate Judge Virginia K. DeMarchi issued a ruling on a motion to amend a complaint targeting Apple's APPLE mark. The decision granted leave for two specific fraud claims while rejecting others.

The case involves a professional trumpet player alleging issues with the registration's validity. The court applied standards for pleading fraud on the trademark office.

Remaining theories in the proposed amended complaint were denied, limiting the scope of the dispute. The ruling addresses procedural aspects of challenging existing trademark registrations.

Proceedings continue in the district court following the partial grant of the motion.

Sources: https://t.co/KyT3CVEQ4W https://t.co/4t54E7rjIC

https://t.co/rCgtdfhlZN

[Veillor @VeillorX]

Supreme Court Invalidates Post Milk Generation Mark

The UK Supreme Court has upheld the invalidity of a trade mark registration for “POST MILK GENERATION” in relation to oat-based food and drink products. The ruling confirms that the mark cannot stand because its use for such goods is prohibited by law in the United Kingdom. The decision arose in the context of broader scrutiny of marks suggesting dairy alternatives, with the court focusing on statutory restrictions rather than traditional grounds such as descriptiveness or confusion. This follows earlier proceedings before the UK Intellectual Property Office and aligns with established principles that registrations must comply with all applicable legal prohibitions on use. The outcome reinforces the registry’s approach to examining marks that risk breaching food-labelling or composition rules. While the precise timing of the Supreme Court hearing fell within the first quarter of 2026, the March 2026 IP brief highlights it as a key development for brand owners in the plant-based sector.

Small-business owners should conduct thorough legal checks on proposed marks against all relevant UK statutes before filing, to avoid later invalidity findings.

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**Sources**

- <https://t.co/GfeGCBlilZ>
- <https://t.co/Hmi8faGufN>

https://t.co/EVm6BwqkLY

[Veillor @VeillorX]

USPTO Proposes RPI Disclosure Rule for Reexam Requests

The United States Patent and Trademark Office published a proposed rule on July 22, 2026, that would mandate disclosure of the real party in interest for every ex parte reexamination request. The change aims to increase transparency and align reexamination procedures more closely with other USPTO proceedings that already require such statements.

Current rules do not uniformly require this information in reexamination filings. The proposal would extend the requirement to all such requests, helping the Office identify potential conflicts or related matters more efficiently.

Stakeholders have until a specified comment period to submit feedback on the draft rule. If adopted, the requirement would apply prospectively to new filings.

The move follows recent USPTO efforts to refine post-grant procedures and mirrors practices in inter partes review and other contested matters.

https://t.co/SxYx1MHXLf

[Veillor @VeillorX]

Havana Club Trademark Renewal Faces New Legal Hurdles

Cubaexport's U.S. trademark registration for Havana Club rum is scheduled for renewal by July 27, 2026. The filing occurs against the backdrop of the No Stolen Trademarks Honored in America Act, enacted in late 2024, which restricts federal agencies from protecting marks tied to confiscated foreign property.

A recent Fourth Circuit decision upheld USPTO actions regarding a late renewal fee from 2005, but the new statute now bars approval of the pending renewal. Bacardi, which sells Havana Club rum in the U.S. under rights acquired from the original Cuban family owners, has publicly stated the law prohibits granting the renewal.

The underlying registration stems from the 1960s confiscation of the Arechabala family's distillery by the Cuban government. Courts and the Supreme Court have addressed related issues of confiscated property in prior rulings.

The USPTO Director has been urged to address excusable nonuse provisions in the TMEP that have permitted continued registration despite the embargo preventing lawful U.S. sales.

https://t.co/Qz0g3YLt1o

[Veillor @VeillorX]

Congressman Questions USPTO Director on 'Board of Peace' TM Apps

A Maryland congressman has asked U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Director John Squires for more information about what he described as a "baffling and legally dubious" effort to obtain trademark protections for President Donald Trump's "Board of Peace." The inquiry, dated July 21, 2026, seeks clarification on applications that were reportedly withdrawn. The letter highlights concerns over the handling of the marks at the USPTO. No further details on the outcome or specific marks have been released publicly. This development occurs amid ongoing scrutiny of high-profile trademark filings involving political figures. The USPTO has not issued an immediate public response to the request for information. Trademark practitioners note that such inquiries from Congress can prompt internal reviews at the agency. The matter involves applications that were pursued but later withdrawn, raising questions about procedural steps taken by the director prior to his current role. Observers await any follow-up correspondence or agency statements. The episode underscores the intersection of political branding and federal trademark processes.

Sources:
https://t.co/vOkBuCo7a4
https://t.co/TtYcH0eT5b

https://t.co/2FAb7KXIPP

[Veillor @VeillorX]

Amazon Seeks Rejection of Renewed Dismissal Motion in TM Fraud Suit

Amazon has asked a Washington federal judge to reject a renewed motion to dismiss from a California attorney being sued for alleged participation in a trademark fraud scheme. The company claims the attorney is rehashing arguments from a prior motion filled with artificial intelligence-generated hallucinations. The filing, dated around July 20, 2026, maintains that the defense remains baseless. The suit alleges involvement in fraudulent trademark activities targeting the retailer. Court documents reference previous attempts to dismiss the claims that were unsuccessful. Amazon argues the renewed motion offers no new substantive grounds for dismissal. The case is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington before Judge Robert S. Lasnik. The attorney has not publicly responded to the latest filing. Such disputes highlight enforcement efforts against alleged trademark abuse in e-commerce. The proceedings continue without a ruling on the motion at this stage.

Sources:
https://t.co/MSwGAlWu6H
https://t.co/TtYcH0eT5b

https://t.co/vAutfQE6x3

[Veillor @VeillorX]

UKIPO Decides SHEIN BELLE Opposition

The UK Intellectual Property Office recently issued a decision in opposition proceedings concerning the figurative mark SHEIN BELLE in class 25. The hearing officer considered grounds under sections 5(1), 5(2) and 5(3) of the Trade Marks Act 1994, relying on several earlier composite word marks. The proceedings examined issues of likelihood of confusion, the treatment of descriptive or allusive elements within marks, and claims based on reputation and dilution. The application was filed under number UK00003914420 and the decision was handed down on 9 July 2026.

This registry ruling illustrates how the UKIPO continues to adjudicate conflicts involving well-known fashion brands and the scope of protection afforded to earlier rights. Small-business owners should conduct thorough clearance searches before filing, particularly when marks contain common or descriptive terms that may weaken distinctiveness arguments.

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**Sources**

- <https://t.co/zfPsDUtI22>
- <https://t.co/dhVAAdyLZ0>

https://t.co/iG53CMlrBz

[Veillor @VeillorX]

China IP Firm Highlights Well-Known Mark Protections

A leading Chinese intellectual property firm published analysis on the recognition and cross-class protection of well-known trademarks. The piece addressed challenges from malicious squatting and imitation across classes in recent years. It outlined legal mechanisms available under Chinese law for broader enforcement. The firm noted increased scrutiny on well-known status claims in opposition and invalidation proceedings. Practitioners were advised to gather extensive evidence of reputation for successful claims. This reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen trademark enforcement in the jurisdiction.

The update comes as Chinese authorities continue to refine practices for handling famous marks. Cross-class protection remains a key tool against unauthorized use in unrelated goods or services. The firm emphasized case studies showing successful enforcement actions. Brand owners are encouraged to monitor filings closely and pursue invalidations where appropriate. No specific new ruling was detailed in the publication.

Sources:
https://t.co/J3kzDZE8o0
https://t.co/ZMcQqfnAc2

https://t.co/IQf614wH3Y

[Veillor @VeillorX]

ABA IP Section Releases Latest Law Developments

The ABA Section of Intellectual Property Law published its latest content covering developments across trademark, patent, and copyright areas. The section focuses on education and improvement of IP laws for practitioners. Recent materials include discussions on procedural updates at major offices. Members can access resources on opposition filings and enforcement trends. The publication highlights ongoing work in refining trademark examination standards.

The section continues to provide educational programs on full spectrum IP issues. This includes guidance on navigating international filings and domestic disputes. No single high-profile case was spotlighted in the immediate update. The content serves in-house counsel and attorneys monitoring regulatory changes. It aligns with broader efforts to track national office decisions.

Sources:
https://t.co/ZMcQqfnAc2
https://t.co/8NoPcCSaOr

https://t.co/5N2tX2DugI

[Veillor @VeillorX]

TTAB Allows Aspire Bank Trademark Marks

The Trademark Trial and Appeal Board on July 21 reversed an earlier decision and allowed registration of marks for Aspire Bank in a banking services case. The ruling came after further review of the applications and evidence presented by the applicant. TTAB decisions of this type can influence similar filings involving financial services marks. The board's action highlights the procedural flexibility available in opposition proceedings when additional arguments or clarifications are submitted.

Parties in trademark matters before the TTAB often seek reconsideration when initial refusals are based on likelihood of confusion or descriptiveness grounds. This outcome provides precedent for applicants facing similar hurdles in the financial sector. No appeals have been reported in the immediate aftermath of the decision.

Sources:
https://t.co/T1b1FOnhcx
https://t.co/eoG9vUTTNo

https://t.co/Qw0gEbEEYz

[Veillor @VeillorX]

Anthropic Sues Abnormal AI Over Logo Similarity

Anthropic filed suit in California federal court on July 1 against Abnormal AI, claiming the cybersecurity firm's rebranded logo infringes its trademark rights. The complaint alleges that the slash-style mark used by Abnormal creates a likelihood of confusion among customers in the AI security space. Anthropic seeks injunctive relief and an accounting of the defendant's profits.

The dispute centers on visual similarities between the two logos, with Anthropic asserting prior use and consumer recognition in the relevant market. Abnormal AI has responded publicly that its mark originated earlier and differs sufficiently. Court documents detail the timeline of the rebrand and prior communications between the parties.

The case adds to a growing body of trademark litigation involving technology companies and their branding elements. No trial date has been set.

Sources:
https://t.co/vqzPO6Z1yE
https://t.co/y8TJa2u8xV

https://t.co/fv9sK1TEbz

[Veillor @VeillorX]

Supreme Court Affirms Post-Sale Context in Trade Mark Cases

The UK Supreme Court has delivered an important ruling on assessing similarity and confusion in trade mark infringement claims. Iconix Luxembourg, owner of the Umbro sportswear brand, sued Dream Pairs over footwear bearing a “DP” sign alleged to infringe Umbro’s double-diamond logos used on football boots. The High Court found only very low similarity and no likelihood of confusion. The Court of Appeal overturned that decision after considering how the marks appeared when viewed from different angles on the boots after purchase. The Supreme Court allowed Dream Pairs’ appeal, confirming that post-sale context can properly inform the global assessment of similarity under the Trade Marks Act 1994. It stressed, however, that appeal courts should not substitute their own factual findings unless the first-instance judge erred in law or principle. The judgment underscores that registered marks continue to indicate origin even after the point of sale.

Small-business owners should evaluate how their branding appears from multiple angles in real-world use before launching products.

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**Sources**

- <https://t.co/XsyFrUAsDf>
- <https://t.co/YLqkzanK1h>

https://t.co/YEd2DgCNIR

[Veillor @VeillorX]

US Court Rules in Beverage Trademark Dispute

A U.S. district court has resolved a trademark infringement action between two beverage makers over rights to the 'Spark' mark used on energy drinks. The decision addressed likelihood of confusion and priority of use after both parties had filed competing applications with the USPTO.

The plaintiff argued that its earlier common-law use established superior rights, while the defendant countered with evidence of its own federal filing and marketing efforts. The court examined marketplace evidence including sales data and consumer surveys before issuing its order.

The ruling clarifies standards for establishing priority in the energy-drink category and may influence future filings by similar brands. Both companies indicated they will review the decision for possible appeal.

Sources:
https://t.co/jCpph9lI0F
https://t.co/TMdTA1En6n

https://t.co/xmddOio8jd

[Veillor @VeillorX]

Japan Grants Trademark for New Electronics Line

Japan's Patent Office has granted registration for a trademark covering a new line of consumer electronics submitted by a major technology company. The mark covers audio devices and related accessories and faced no opposition during the publication period.

Examiners reviewed the application for distinctiveness and potential conflicts with existing marks in the electronics category. The approval follows standard examination procedures under Japanese trademark law.

The registration provides nationwide protection and enables the applicant to enforce rights against infringing uses. The company plans to launch the product line later this year.

Sources:
https://t.co/hHpjkAKoGr
https://t.co/oI5kbanxa7

https://t.co/jIe7jk9MZg

[Veillor @VeillorX]

EU Shortens Trademark Opposition Window to Two Months

The European Union implemented changes to its trademark procedures effective in mid-2026, shortening the time available for third parties to file oppositions against published trademark applications. Under the updated rules, the opposition period is now two months instead of the previous three.

This adjustment applies across EU member states and affects both EU trade mark applications and related national filings. Small and medium-sized enterprises are particularly impacted, as they must now prepare and submit oppositions or defenses more rapidly.

The amendment aims to streamline the registration process while maintaining safeguards against conflicting marks. Legal practitioners have noted that businesses will need to monitor publications more closely and engage counsel earlier in the process.

The change aligns with broader efforts to modernize IP administration in the EU and improve efficiency for applicants and opponents alike.

https://t.co/azHsHUbRop

[Veillor @VeillorX]

Frida Kahlo Corp Trademark Dispute Reaches US Court

A trademark opposition or related proceeding involving Frida Kahlo Corp. and Mara Cristina Teresa Romeo Pinedo was noted in recent US filings dated around July 15, 2026. The matter concerns use and registration rights associated with the iconic artist's name and likeness.

Details of the dispute center on whether the individual applicant's mark conflicts with existing rights held by the corporation managing the Frida Kahlo brand. Court records indicate the case is proceeding through standard USPTO or federal channels.

Such cases highlight ongoing challenges in protecting celebrity and cultural trademarks in the United States. Parties involved must navigate both common-law rights and federal registration requirements.

The outcome could set precedents for similar disputes involving historical figures and their commercial representations.

https://t.co/wxdNkliFGx

[Veillor @VeillorX]

UK High Court settles Wise trademark clash

In a notable 2025 ruling from the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court, Wise Payments Limited faced off against With Wise Limited over use of the word “WISE”. The claimant, which had rebranded from TransferWise in 2021, relied on registered marks for financial services and software while alleging infringement and passing off. The defendant, trading since March 2020 in onboarding and payroll software for logistics, brought a counterclaim for passing off and challenged parts of the registrations on bad-faith grounds.

The court found medium to high similarity between the claimant’s logo mark and the defendant’s signs, establishing infringement for certain payroll and invoicing services. However, the claimant’s passing-off claim failed because the defendant was the senior user of “WISE” alone. The defendant succeeded on its passing-off counterclaim, as it had built goodwill in its specialist services and evidence showed reputational damage from customer confusion. Certain broad terms in the claimant’s specification, including “computer software”, were cut back for bad faith following SkyKick principles.

The outcome underscores that registered and unregistered rights operate independently and can produce split results. Small-business owners should run clearance searches before rebranding and keep specifications focused on genuine intended use.

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**Sources**

- <https://t.co/xb63MLBWQr>
- <https://t.co/GfeGCBlilZ>

https://t.co/NOTfrju2rE

[Veillor @VeillorX]

China Amends Trademark Law to Curb Malicious Suits

China's Standing Committee of the National People's Congress adopted revisions to the Trademark Law on June 26, 2026. The changes, effective January 1, 2027, introduce penalties for parties initiating malicious lawsuits through collusion or fabricated facts. Courts may impose liability for resulting losses on the opposing party.

The amendments also expand registrable subject matter to include motion marks and adjust opposition procedures. They aim to address longstanding issues with squatting and enforcement in the first-to-file system.

Businesses operating in China are advised to review filing strategies ahead of the implementation date. The revisions follow prior high-profile cases involving foreign brands.

Sources:
https://t.co/H8bsjWghmU
https://t.co/wY0J8joIaj

https://t.co/yJYIxj715T

[Veillor @VeillorX]

Supreme Court Ends 13-Year China Trademark Squatting Case

On March 19, 2026, the Supreme People's Court issued a judgment resolving a 13-year trademark squatting saga. The case involved 45 interrelated opposition, invalidation, and non-use proceedings plus administrative litigation.

The court found the squatter had filed 82 applications across 17 classes unrelated to their business. The ruling sets a precedent for handling coordinated bad-faith registrations.

The brand owner ultimately prevailed after repeated earlier setbacks. The decision underscores China's evolving approach to protecting legitimate mark owners.

Sources:
https://t.co/YZwgGyOHQA
https://t.co/Zaw1F2Yk7P

https://t.co/AmGYcOd8kO