Where should I use my CTM? Elisa ZAERA 24/04/2013

Where should I use my CTM?

Elisa ZAERA24/04/2013

• C-149/11 LENO MERKEN (ONEL/OMEL)

• Reference for a preliminary ruling from a Dutch Regional Court of Appeal

• Questions on the obligation of a CTM proprietor to put its mark to genuine use within the EU

• Judgment delivered on 19/12/2012

FACTS

IS USE IN A SINGLE MEMBER STATE

ALWAYS SUFFICIENT?

IF NOT: IS USE IN ONE MEMBER NEVER

SUFFICIENT?

SHOULD GENUINE USE BE ASSESSED WITHOUT

REFERENCE TO BORDERS OF MEMBER

STATES?

OR

THE QUESTIONS: ART. 15

• Territorial scope is only one of the factors

• Political boundaries irrelevant• Use in accordance essential function

TM• Look at relevant facts & circumstances

THE ANSWER

THE ANALYSIS

Then

THE ANALYSIS

THE ANALYSIS

Thank You

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