If an objection cannot be overcome, or an opposition succeeds, the application is refused. Across the register this happens to roughly 2% of applications.
Refusal is often avoidable, many refused marks were filed without a clearance search, in the wrong classes, or described in a way that invited objection. There are also routes to appeal or to refile a better-prepared application.
What to do & be aware of
Refusal usually has a specific, stated reason, understand it before acting.
You may be able to appeal, amend, or refile more carefully.
A proper clearance search before filing prevents most refusals.
We can review a refusal and advise on the best next step.
Figures are derived from analysis of the public UK Intellectual Property Office trademark register (applications filed 2015 to 2023, a settled cohort of 1,340,875 marks). They describe the typical journey of a UK trademark application and are for general information, every application is different.