Gucci Loses GG Trade Mark

In a decision of the UK Intellectual Property office of 5 November 2013, Gucci's trade mark for it's interlocking GG logo has been revoked in certain classes on the grounds of non-use. The mark (shown below) was registered in 1984 for goods in classes 3 (broadly for cosmetics, perfumes and toiletries), 14 (jewellery), 18 (bags and purses etc.) and 25 (for various items of clothing in addition to scarves, socks, belts and shoes).

The applicant was fashion brand Gerry Weber, who made their application on the basis that there had been no use of the mark during a five year period. The application was made under s.46(1)(b) of the UK Trade Marks Act 1994, which states that a trade mark registration can be revoked if use has been suspended for an uninterrupted period of five years, without proper reason.