Nike International Limited v. Ascot (S&F) International Limited

Nike International Limited

Case details

Case no.: O/011/08

Jurisdiction: United Kingdom

Industry: Fashion

Decision date: 18 Jan, 2008

Decision

Following a very detailed assessment of the marks and all the relevant factors, and on a global appreciation, the Hearing officer concluded that there was no likelihood of confusion. The Section 5(2)(b) objection failed accordingly. This dissimilarity in the marks effectively decided the matter under Section 5(3), even taking account of the ‘massive’ reputation in the opponents’ mark. Likewise, the use of the mark applied for would not be a misrepresentation such as to result in passing-off and the Section 5(4)(a) objection failed also. Under Section 56 the Hearing Officer concluded that whilst it was the case that the opponents’ made warranted protection as a well known mark, he could not see that the applicants’ marks had any potential to damage it. The opposition therefore failed on all the grounds on which it had been brought.

Comparison of Trademarks

NIKE