UK Intellectual Property Office Sets Out Customer Service Objectives

The UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO) has recently updated its customer service standards, outlining key performance metrics to ensure efficiency and transparency in handling IP applications and disputes. However, with waiting times getting longer and longer, Mona Asgari offers advice for applicants on navigating the UKIPO trademark backlog.

The UKIPO Corporate Priorities 2024-2025 set out the organisation's customer service and performance standards for the coming year. Despite the standards aiming for timely processing, real-world experiences indicate that actual waiting times are often much longer, however. A recent case involving a salon owner's legal battle with cosmetics giant L'Oréal highlights the growing strain on the UKIPO due to a surge in trademark litigation, as we cover below.