UKIPO Issues Fresh Guidance on Bad Faith in Trade Mark Filings

The UK Intellectual Property Office published updated examination practice in July 2025, with effects continuing into 2026, requiring examiners to raise bad faith objections where specifications are manifestly broad without evidence of genuine commercial intention. Applicants must respond within two months or risk partial refusal. The guidance follows the Supreme Court’s SkyKick decision and applies in both examination and opposition proceedings. Hearing officers have already refused applications in full where no real business plan supported the breadth claimed. Registry data shows increased scrutiny on class-wide or all-goods claims. Small-business owners should review specifications before filing and be ready to provide clear evidence of intended use or narrow claims promptly to avoid delays or refusals.