Trademark Monitoring
We help you identify new trademark applications early on and assess them strategically.
What Trademark Monitoring Means
Trademark monitoring serves to identify, at an early stage, newly filed trademarks that could conflict with an existing trademark. This applies not only to identical marks, but also to similarities in appearance, sound, or meaning, as well as overlaps in goods and services.
Monitoring is not an official part of the trademark system. Neither the DPMA nor the EUIPO automatically notifies trademark owners of new, similar applications. Anyone who wishes to identify and manage potential conflicts must therefore take proactive steps themselves.
Common Questions About Surveillance Matches
Similarity of Characters
To what extent is the new application similar in terms of spelling, pronunciation, or meaning?
Goods & Services
Are there any relevant overlaps or close business ties?
Territory
Which countries or shelters are affected?
Deadlines
What response deadlines are in effect—and how long are they?
Risks Without Monitoring
Without monitoring
Without trademark monitoring, potential conflicts are often not identified until products are already on the market or marketing campaigns are underway. This limits the scope for action and often makes conflicts more expensive and complex.
With monitoring
Ongoing monitoring makes it possible to respond early, weigh options, and manage conflicts in a targeted manner. This can significantly reduce costs, time spent, and the risk of escalation.
How We Set Up Brand Monitoring
Define Monitoring
Defining registers, countries, search logic, and classes.
Record Results
Regular review of new registrations.
Assess from a legal perspective
Classification based on similarity of marks, scope of protection, and relevance.
Derive the plot
Observe, make contact, or take formal action.
As a result of trademark monitoring, you have a solid basis for deciding whether monitoring alone is sufficient or whether further action is warranted. Please contact us.
Related to the topic of trademark monitoring
Trademark application
Germany (DPMA), the EU (EUIPO), and internationally (WIPO)
Use of the Trademark
Guidelines on Trademark Use and the Obligation to Use the Trademark
Here's how we support you
Concept
We'll set up the monitoring to match your brand.
Rating
We review search results from a legal perspective and prioritize them.
Strategy
We provide clear recommendations for action.
Implementation
We'll guide you through the next steps if needed.
Download PDF
All the information you need about trademark monitoring, in a nutshell.
Listen to the podcast
We'll discuss common pitfalls in trademark law.