Application success rate in the United Kingdom: 5 year trend
Trademark registration in the United Kingdom is managed by the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO).
The UK's trademark application success rate stands at 86.22%, reflecting a relatively efficient examination system that has remained fairly stable over the past five years. When compared to the US (56.91%) or Canada (50.76%), the UK’s trademark success rate is significantly higher.
Find out more about how this trademark office compares globally in our full report on trademark success rates worldwide.
Country | Office code | Success rate |
|---|---|---|
The United Kingdom | UKIPO | 86.22% |
The European Union | EUIPO | 90.80% |
Ireland | IPOI | 68.06% |
The United States | USPTO | 56.91% |
Canada | CIPO | 50.76% |
This difference can be attributed to several factors:
Streamlined Examination Process: The UKIPO focuses on distinctiveness and conflicts in a relatively straightforward and transparent manner. While it’s still strict, the process is less burdensome than the US’s rigorous examination.
Office Actions: Though the UKIPO issues office actions, the rate of rejection tends to be lower. The UK’s process encourages dialogue between applicants and examiners, leading to better chances of overcoming issues during the application stage.
Less Competition: While trademark filings in the UK are frequent, they are fewer than in the US, meaning there is generally less market competition and fewer marks to conflict with.
How to maximize your chances of registration success in the United Kingdom
Despite a relatively high success rate of 86.22% , registering a trademark in the United Kingdom requires careful planning and a strong understanding of UKIPO procedures. To improve your likelihood of approval, it’s recommended to begin with a comprehensive trademark search to identify any potential conflicts. Ensure that your mark is distinctive and not merely descriptive, and clearly define the goods and services associated with your application.
Working with a qualified trademark lawyer is one of the most effective ways to increase your chances. A trademark lawyer can help navigate the complexities of the UKIPO process, respond effectively to Office Actions, and build a solid filing strategy from the start.
If you are currently preparing to submit your first trademark application, we’ve put together a detailed guide on how to strengthen your chances of success, with multiple pieces of advice directly from our trademark lawyers with years of experience. You can also take advantage of Trama’s free lawyer’s check to receive expert feedback on your trademark and guidance on the best steps forward.
