An application can be withdrawn, sometimes voluntarily, but often because an objection or opposition could not be answered. About 4% of applications are withdrawn, making it the most common way an application ends without registration.
A registered mark can also be surrendered (given up) by its owner, for example when a brand is retired. Surrender is a deliberate choice rather than a problem.
What to do & be aware of
Withdrawal is frequently avoidable with the right help at examination or opposition.
Before withdrawing, check whether the application can be saved or narrowed instead.
Surrender is permanent, be sure before giving up a registered right.
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.