UKIPO Backs Clipper Tea in Rival Opposition

Kallo, owner of the well-known Clipper Tea brand, has succeeded in UKIPO opposition and invalidation proceedings against marks filed by The 1872 Clipper Tea Co. The hearing officer found a likelihood of indirect confusion arising from the shared “clipper” element across the competing signs, despite differences in stylisation and additional wording. Kallo relied on its earlier UK registrations covering tea and related goods to block protection for five of the opponent’s international registrations in the UK. The challenger had limited success in partial revocation actions against some of Kallo’s marks on non-use grounds, but this did not prevent the overall outcome in Kallo’s favour. The decision underscores the strength of established prior rights in registry proceedings and the risks of adopting similar branding in the same sector even where heritage claims are asserted.

For small-business owners, secure broad word-mark protection early and maintain clear evidence of use across core goods to defend against later conflicts.