Sussex Royal trade mark to end
‘Sussex Royal’ trade mark applications will be withdrawn and not used from spring 2020, amid the controversy over the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s future relationship with the Royal family.
The news comes after the Queen reportedly “banned” the couple from using the word “royal”, which is likely to lead persons to think that the brand has Royal patronage or authorisation.
Sussex Royal trade mark applications to be withdrawn
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have now agreed to withdraw all trade mark applications for the term in the United Kingdom and the European Union.
In December, an international trade mark application was filed claiming priority from the UK application for ‘Sussex Royal’, covering territories including Australia, Canada, the European Union and the United States.
At the time of writing, the commercial intention of the trade mark applications is unclear but 14 notices of threatened opposition had already been filed against the UK trade mark application. Despite no formal opposition having been lodged, it now appears that the Queen’s intervention has ended the couple’s plans to continue to use, and protect, the term ‘Sussex Royal’.
Specially Protected Trade Marks
The UK Trade Marks Act 1994 states that any trade mark which could be perceived as having the approval of the Royal family, requires the consent of the Queen or relevant member of the Royal family.
Please note the contents of this blog is given for information only and must not be relied upon. Legal advice should always be sought in relation to specific circumstances.
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