Category: America

Ralph Lauren Polo vs. Polo SA

Ralph Lauren Corporation is an internationally recognised fashion company who own the hugely popular brand Ralph Lauren Polo. Ralph Lauren Polo is sold across the world by the US Corporation, who acquired exclusive intellectual property rights in the brand in almost every country with the exception of one. In South Africa, Ralph Lauren Polo is prohibited from selling their products in this country, and is prevented by South African trade mark laws . But how is this possible, given the existence of the trade marked US label, Ralph Lauren Polo?

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Trade Secrets- Proposal for a directive on the protection of undisclosed know-how and business information (trade secrets).

The European Commission (EC) published a proposal for a directive on the protection of undisclosed know-how and business information (trade secrets) against their unlawful acquisition, use and disclosure. The proposed directive is aimed at all Member States (28) with the effect of being binding, albeit allowing a margin of appreciation to the State in how they adopt the Articles.

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The last layer for the Onion

Buying and selling any business is tricky these days. Its a buyer’s market but if you are running a profitable business there is no reason why your website can’t command a competitive sale price. The world famous Onion website – one of the first satirical websites is apparently up for sale.

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Ford denied trade mark protection in Russia

Ford Motor Company has lost its case against Federal Service for Intellectual Property, Patents and trademarks (Rospatent). A recent Court ruling has denied trade mark protection for its iconic blue oval logo with the word ‘Ford’.

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