The End is Nigh for Series Trade Marks in the UK

The UKIPO will end series trade mark filings in the UK by late 2025, citing confusion, delays, and a move to align globally. Existing registrations stay valid. Applicants can still file until the change takes effect. Our correspondent, Abigail Welford, explains what's happening...

Following a recent consultation, the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO) has confirmed that series trade mark filings will be discontinued in the United Kingdom by the end of 2025.

A “series” trade mark application can contain up to six marks that differ only in non-distinctive elements - for example:

In example 1 above, “FranksCo” is the distinctive element, with only the numeric suffix changing.  In example 2 the colour changes.  In example 3 the use of upper and lowercase letters varies while the word remains the same.  To qualify, all marks in the series must closely resemble one another and differ only in ways that do not materially affect their distinctiveness.  More info on trade mark series applications can be found here

Series filings have been a cost-effective way to protect similar variations of a mark in one application. The UKIPO charges no extra fee for a second mark in a series, with each additional mark costing £50.

However, the consultation found that many applicants misunderstand the strict requirements, leading to refusals, administrative burdens for the UKIPO, and delays for applicants.

Since series trade mark filings are not widely available internationally, their removal will also help align UK procedures with global practice.

All existing series registrations will remain valid and can be renewed in the usual way. The UKIPO will continue accepting series applications until the change takes effect.

If you require assistance with filing before the deadline, please contact us on 0114 249 9888 or email franksco@franksco.com.