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New developments in trademarks and intellectual property

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Common terms in the field of intellectual property

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Latest news

1 May 2023

Priority access until May 27 for registration of .watches domains

4 April 2023

No exclusive rights to Switzerland for using the name “gruyere” in the US

3 March 2023

TOBLERONE logo will not depict the Matterhorn anymore

Dernières publications

Preventing trademark degeneration in Switzerland

A well-known trademark may come to get associated with the product or service instead of identifying the company, as its purpose actually is. In that case, it could be found to be generic and therefore free of use. This is what happened to Bayer's trademark “Aspirin” which ended up in dictionaries. It has become a common term which is now widely used by all pharmaceutical companies. The trademark owners must take proactive steps to avoid losing their exclusive rights. This article gives insights into how to prevent a trademark from becoming generic in light of the Swiss legislation and case law.

Strategic combined approach to trademark and domain name protections

Prior to any product or service launch, the trademark and domain name protection steps must be carefully considered, aligned and taken early on. Anticipate and coordinate these steps will make the trademark and domain name portfolio generate revenues and reflect in a high return on investment. In this article, a closer look is taken at the best practices in addressing both domain name and trademark protections at each stage of the project.

Overview of appellations of origin and geographical indications in Switzerland in light of the forthcoming ratification of the Geneva Act

Geographical indications (GIs) and appellations of origin (AOs) protect the names of products for which the quality or the reputation is linked to a specific area. Their registration allows to prevent them from becoming generic or misused, which could not only harm the local producers through unfair competition, but also mislead consumers as to where the goods come from. The way of protecting GIs differs significantly from country to country. In Switzerland, there is a sui generis right system in place. In addition, parliamentary work is under way for the future ratification of the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement on AOs and GIs which would allow to register them through the international procedure at WIPO.

For your success

Based in Geneva, SEDIN assists you in protecting, enhancing and defending your trademarks and intellectual property assets in Switzerland and internationally.

The services of SEDIN were perfectly adapted to our request. We particularly appreciated the reactivity and the expertise. Recommended without hesitation.

Candeo Corporate Services, Suisse (2021)

SEDIN is a well-established and well-connected Geneva boutique with a compact, agile, business-focused and responsive team of IP experts.

The outfit provides a high-quality, well-priced service.

All of the attorneys at SEDIN are top standard. They manage deadlines assiduously, speak perfect English and charge fair rates on a transparent basis.

WTR 1000 (2023)

SEDIN combines a pragmatic and client-oriented approach while considering the legal framework and the corporate context.
This makes working with SEDIN a pleasant and efficient collaboration.

Blossom, Suisse (2023)

We thank the whole SEDIN team for the study, advice and registration of our trademarks. We are delighted to have SEDIN as a partner, with a professional and fast approach.

Pisanello International, Suisse (2021)

As a specialist in the creation of visual identities, I was looking for a trustworthy partner to accompany my clients in their efforts to protect their brands. At SEDIN, I found a firm on a human scale, which listens to specific needs and provides support that combines pedagogy, seriousness and efficiency.

Schéma Studio, Suisse (2021)

Our collaboration with SEDIN was very constructive, we particularly appreciated their kind availability, their precise advice and their reactivity. Highly recommended.

Posttchi SA, Switzerland (2021)