Series Finale for Series Marks

Series trade marks have been around for some time in the UK. However, the UK Government, as part of the UK Intellectual Property Office’s digital transformation programme consultation, has announced its plan to remove series marks altogether by Autumn 2025.

Below we have answered some key questions surrounding the Government’s plan to remove series marks and potential action rightsholders can take right now.

What is a series mark?

A series mark is a unique feature of the UK trade mark system that allows for the registration of up to 6 trade marks within a single application. The catch is that the marks differ only in non-distinctive matter; for example, the same logo in up to 6 different colours.

It is important to note that a series mark is not intended to provide materially different protection to that offered by any other mark in the series. This has implications when enforcing the trade mark.

Why is the Government removing series marks?

In short, the Government is of the view that trade mark applicants are misunderstanding series marks and that some are potentially misusing it to achieve multiple examinations at a reduced cost.

The positive news is that existing series marks will not be removed from the register.

Should I look to register a series mark before Autumn 2025?

This largely depends on your trade mark portfolio and your key products and services. By way of example, if you have a logo that you use in different colours consistently, there is no harm making a series mark application before Autumn 2025, especially given the low cost (see below).

Further, certain marks may benefit from being filed as a series of marks. For example, a figurative mark of a distinctive fictional character could be filed with 6 different views.

How much does a series mark application cost?

A trade mark application for a series of marks includes:

• £170 for up to 6 marks in one class (standard single application fee)

• £50 per additional class

Are series marks protected in territories other than the UK?

The UK is the primary territory that allows the filing of series trade marks. Therefore, if you intend to claim priority on your UK series mark in another territory, such as the EU, you will have to decide which one mark in the series you wish to claim priority on. The remaining marks would then have to be filed as separate applications if you wish to have them protected.

If you require assistance with series marks, or trade marks in general, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us and one of our specialist intellectual property lawyers will be glad to assist.

————————————————————————————————————————–

FAQs

Q: What is a series mark?

A: A single UK trade mark registration covering up to 6 variations (e.g. different colours), provided they only differ in non-distinctive elements.

Q: When will series marks end?

A: The UK Government plans to remove them by Autumn 2025.

Q: Can I file one last series mark?

A: Yes, if filed before Autumn 2025, you can still benefit from this tool.

Q: Do series marks offer global protection?

A: No, only UK. For EU/US, choose a single version or file separately.

Q: What happens to existing series marks?

A: They will remain valid on the UK register post-2025.

Interested in filing a Series Mark or updating your trade mark strategy? Complete the contact form below or get in touch with one of our specialist IP solicitors. We’ll help you act before the Autumn 2025 deadline.