K9er® is a Union trademark!
In today’s highly networked business world, protecting your own trademark is of central importance. Especially companies that operate or plan to operate throughout Europe benefit enormously from the possibility of registering their trademark as a European Union trademark. This article focuses on the topic “K9er is a European Union trademark”. We explain what a European Union trade mark is, how the application procedure works, what advantages and special features it offers and why Europe-wide trade mark protection is so important, especially for innovative trade marks such as K9er.
What does "K9er® is a European Union trademark" mean?
The statement “K9er is a European Union trademark” means that the K9er trademark has been officially registered with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) and therefore enjoys trademark protection in all member states of the European Union. This currently covers 27 countries and thus a market with over 440 million consumers.
A European Union trademark (formerly Community trademark) is a legal institution of industrial property protection at EU level. It serves to distinguish the goods and services of one company from those of other companies. Upon registration, the owner receives an exclusive right to use it and can take action against imitators or trademark infringements throughout the EU.
The advantages of a European Union trademark
Uniform trademark protection throughout the EU
- Protection in 27 EU countries: With just one application and one procedure, the trademark is protected in all member states.
- Cost efficiency: The application for an EU trademark is cheaper than individual national trademark applications in each country.
- Simple administration: There is only one central point of contact (EUIPO) for registration, administration and renewal of the trademark.
Strong enforceability
- Exclusive rights: The owner can prohibit others from using identical or similar signs for comparable goods and services.
- Right of opposition: Prior rights can be asserted within the opposition period in order to prevent the registration of similar trademarks.
- Claims for damages: In the event of a trademark infringement, the owner is entitled to comprehensive claims, including claims for damages, injunctive relief and destruction of illegally labeled products.
Flexibility and expandability
- Unlimited extension: The term of protection is ten years and can be extended as often as required for a further ten years.
- Combination options: The EU trademark can be combined with national and international trademark rights to achieve even more comprehensive protection.
The path to the EU trademark: The application procedure
Trademark search
Before applying, you should check whether similar or identical trademarks already exist. The EUIPO does not automatically check for earlier rights – a professional search is therefore advisable in order to avoid later conflicts.
Application to the EUIPO
- Online application: Applications are usually filed electronically via the EUIPO portal.
- Specification of the goods and services: It must be precisely defined for which products or services the trademark is to be protected.
- Choice of language: You can register in one of the 23 official languages of the EU. A second language (DE, EN, ES, FR, IT) must also be selected.
Examination procedure
The EUIPO examines the formal requirements and absolute grounds for refusal (e.g. lack of distinctiveness, descriptive indications). Relative grounds for refusal (prior rights of third parties) are only taken into account in opposition proceedings.
Publication and objection period
After a successful examination, the trademark is published. Third parties can file an objection within three months if they assert earlier rights.
Registration and protection
Once the objection period has expired or any conflicts have been resolved, the registration takes place. From this point on, the following officially applies K9er is a European Union trademark and enjoys full protection in the EU.
Why is protection as an EU trademark so important for K9s?
International growth
K9er is a brand that specializes in dog-related products and services. The European market is particularly attractive for this sector, as pets are highly valued in many countries and dog accessories, training and services are in high demand.
Protection against counterfeiters and product piracy
Innovative brands in particular are often the target of counterfeiters. With the status of a European Union trademark, K9er can take effective action against product piracy and trademark misuse in all EU countries.
Confidence advantage with customers and partners
A registered Union trademark signals professionalism and reliability. Customers, dealers and business partners recognize at a glance that K9er is a protected and established brand.
The legal basis of the European Union trade mark
The EU trade mark is governed by Regulation (EU) No. 2017/1001. It can be registered for all goods and services, provided they are distinctive and do not violate legal regulations. Registration takes place exclusively at the EUIPO. The term of protection is ten years and can be extended at will.
In contrast to the international trademark (IR trademark), the EU trademark is automatically valid in all EU member states. A national trademark, on the other hand, only provides protection in the respective country. The EU trade mark is therefore the ideal solution for companies that want to operate or expand across Europe.
Practical example: K9 as a Union trademark
With K9er, Sattler Interim – FZCO not only secures the protection of the brand name, but also the exclusive right to offer products such as dog harnesses, leads, training accessories and services under this brand throughout the EU. This strengthens the company’s competitive position and protects it from free riders who want to profit from the brand’s high profile and good reputation.
Tips for a successful trademark application
- Professional trademark research: Check in advance whether similar trademarks exist.
- Clear list of goods and services: Precise definition of the products and services to be protected.
- Strategic brand management: Consider in which countries the brand is particularly important and whether a combination with national brands makes sense.
- Legal advice: In case of uncertainties, it is advisable to seek support from a lawyer specializing in trademark law.
Conclusion
Registration as a European Union trademark is a decisive step for modern companies like K9er to secure their own trademark protection throughout Europe. “K9er is a European Union trademark” means that the trademark is protected in all EU member states, imitators can be effectively combated and the company enjoys an important competitive advantage. The advantages – from simple administration and strong enforceability to cost savings – make the EU trademark the ideal solution for ambitious brands that want to be successful on the European market.
If you want to be successful in the long term, you should not leave trademark protection to chance. The statement “K9er is a Union trademark” is therefore not just a legal status, but a clear signal of quality, innovation and safety – for the company, its partners and, above all, for customers.