The University of Cambridge has found itself in yet another trade mark dispute, having filed an opposition with the UK Intellectual Property Office (“UKIPO”) against Cambridge Rowing Ltd’s recent application for a figurative mark. The mark in question depicts a person rowing a small boat contained within a crest accompanied by two perpendicular paddles with the wording ‘CAMBRIDGE ROWING’. The mark has been applied for in classes 25, 35 and 41, with the university’s opposition based principally around the services in class 41.
The University of Cambridge argues that the applied for mark is similar to several of its word and figurative marks for ‘Cambridge’ and ‘CAMBRIDGE’, which are registered in class 41 (amongst various others), for services identical to theirs. Cambridge Rowing Ltd’s director, Omar Terywall, has expressed his disappointment in the university’s opposition to the rowing company’s application, stating “Cambridge existed way before the university did, as did rowing”.
With Cambridge Rowing Ltd’s application having been made in 2022, Mr Terywall’s perseverance in maintaining his company’s position in this dispute is commendable. However, the university enjoyed success in similar proceedings in 2021 against a local brewery, and may be set to achieve the same outcome based on the long-standing reputation and goodwill in its marks. With the UKIPO set to make its decision in the coming months, it remains to be seen whether the University will be successful once more, or if Cambridge Rowing Ltd will prevail against the odds.
If you have any questions on the above, or if you need any advice or support in respect of your own Intellectual Property, please do not hesitate to contact the team at McDaniels Law on 0191 281 4000 or legal@mcdanielslaw.com.
