Overview

• Oral proceedings opened at the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg and a verdict is not expected for months.
• Munich had secured the 'Oktoberfest' trademark in 2021 for a wide array of products including apparel and drinkware.
• A Swedish firm challenged the registration, leading EUIPO to annul protections for certain items such as clothing and beer steins.
• EUIPO rejected Munich’s appeal of the partial annulment, prompting the city to bring its case to Europe’s highest court.
• Judges will evaluate the mark’s distinctive character requirement to determine if it serves as a valid origin indicator.