EPO vs EUIPO: Patents & Trade Marks
The EPO handles patents across Europe. The EUIPO handles EU trade marks and designs. They are separate systems, but timing matters for product launches.
The European Patent Office (EPO) and the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) are often confused. They are separate offices with separate procedures.
The EPO grants European patents and examines utility models in some member states. The EUIPO registers EU trade marks and registered Community designs.
A single product launch can touch both offices: the underlying technology may need patent protection, while the product name, logo and packaging need trade mark or design protection.
Timelines differ sharply. A straightforward EUTM can be registered in 6–12 months, while a European patent often takes 3–5 years before grant and validation.
Aligning the two portfolios early avoids gaps. For example, filing a trade mark before public disclosure of an invention can also support brand protection, while delaying patent filing can destroy novelty in some jurisdictions.
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If you are planning European expansion, I can help you align patent, trade mark and timing strategy before launch.