26/07/2022
The Eurovision fans amongst the R&G team were happy to learn yesterday that next years’ competition is to be hosted here in the UK. Eurovision has provided us with hours (many, many, hours) of entertainment over the years, and yesterday’s announcement got us wondering about how the brand is protected and enforced around the world.
The EUROVISION Trade Marks are owned by the European Broadcasting Union, an alliance of public service media organisations from 56 countries. The EUROVISION name was registered as a plain word mark in 2013 for goods and services in Classes 9, 16, 25, 28, 35, 38, 41, 42 and 45 under Registration No. 011430221.
Interestingly, EU Trade Mark Registration No. 011430221 covers “Intellectual property licensing services; management, namely administration and exploitation, namely licensing of copyrights and neighbouring rights for production and/or distribution of sounds and/or video recordings” in Class 45, in addition to the more predictable entertainment related services in Class 41 and merchandise items in Classes 9,16, 25 and 28.
The Eurovision logo was updated to its current form in 2015 and was first applied for in Switzerland under Trade Mark No. 671569. Information about the artwork and rules for its use are published on a dedicated page on the Eurovision Song Contest website. Every year, the Host Broadcaster has the chance to create their own personalised branding to complement the official logo.
We are excited to see what the 2023 competition will bring in terms of colourful branding and songs that are sure to get stuck in our heads. Most importantly look forward to revelling in the sense of togetherness the event promotes.
This article is for general information only. Its content is not a statement of the law on any subject and does not constitute advice. Please contact Reddie & Grose LLP for advice before taking any action in reliance on it.
