American TV network Home Box Office (HBO) has failed its attempt to oppose a trade mark for the phrase ‘Game of Stones’ at the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO).
HBO, who owns the popular Game of Thrones television series, took issue with UK based brewery company Wadworth after they applied for a trademark with the phrase ‘Game of Stones’ and a ring of standing stones to cover their range of ales, porter, stout and flavoured beer.
The US-based network opposed the application, stating that the mark was too similar to its own marks and that use of the term Game of Stones would ride on the coattails of the TV show’s reputation and cause misrepresentation.
HBO focused on two of their existing trade marks in their argument against Wadworth’s application, citing the European word mark ‘Game of Thrones’ which included beet in class 32 and the European logo ‘Game of Thrones Ascent’ which covers online games in class 41.
However, earlier this month the UKIPO rejected HBO’s arguments and allowed Wadworth brewery to move forward with their registration of the trade marks.
Mark Bryant, on behalf of the IPO, found that some of the respective aspects of each mark were identical because of the occurrence of the three word phrase that features the same two first words ‘Game of’ and a third word that ends – ones.
Mr Bryant also added that whilst the elements sounded the same, there was a low level of visual similarity which made them differ enough for the application to be allowed to proceed.
He said: “The high point of the opponent’s case rests where the respective parties’ beer is
purchased in a pub or bar where aural considerations may play a part. Whilst the marks share a high level of aural similarity, such purchases are rarely done solely by way of an aural request.
“Taking all of this together, it is my opinion that whilst the applicant’s mark could bring the opponent’s name to mind, it will not lead to misrepresentation.”
To find out more about how Palmers can help with intellectual property, please click here.