BREXIT – Update: no extension of Transition Period

After the UK left the EU at the end of January 2020, a transition period was agreed between the parties meaning the UK would remain governed by EU laws. The transition period will end on 31 December 2020. The UK administration had previously indicated that it did not wish to make use of the possibility to extend the transition period and in fact it has not requested such extension.

The parties have until 1 January 2021 to reach a trade agreement and agree on the terms for the new relationship that will take effect as from this date. If they do not reach an agreement, a hard Brexit will follow.

Existing EU trademark and design registrations

Trade talks are still ongoing and we do not know how the final form of a trade deal will look like. What we do know however is that existing registered EU trademarks and registered Community designs will continue to be protected and enforceable in the UK by provision of an equivalent right in the United Kingdom from the first day of the coming year.

New EU trademark and design applications

If you wish to apply for registration of a (new) trademark or design in the European Union in the months to come you will need to consider whether the trademark or design should also be applied for in the UK. Where you ask us to arrange for registration of a trademark or design in the Union, we will make sure to address the issue of protection in the United Kingdom, and advise you about the steps to be taken.

Please, do not hesitate to call or email us if you have any questions.