UKIPO Rules in Major Frasers Trademark Dispute
Published: 2 August 2026
In a landmark April 2026 decision, the UK Intellectual Property Office resolved the largest set of consolidated trademark proceedings to date. Registrar S Wilson determined more than thirty revocation, invalidity and opposition actions between Frasers Property Limited and House of Fraser Brands Limited concerning marks incorporating the name “Frasers”. The dispute centred on overlapping commercial interests, with Frasers Property active in property development, investment and hospitality, while House of Fraser sought to broaden its long-standing retail presence into real estate, financial services and accommodation.
The Registrar found genuine use of HOUSE OF FRASER mainly limited to retail services and revoked substantial parts of the registrations for non-use. Use of the standalone FRASERS mark was not accepted as a permissible variant. Frasers Property’s core marks largely survived on narrowed specifications reflecting proven UK use. House of Fraser’s attempts to register FRASERS in property and financial classes were partially refused on grounds of likelihood of confusion. Bad-faith findings remained limited.
Small businesses should maintain clear records of UK use across all registered goods and services to withstand future non-use challenges.
The Registrar found genuine use of HOUSE OF FRASER mainly limited to retail services and revoked substantial parts of the registrations for non-use. Use of the standalone FRASERS mark was not accepted as a permissible variant. Frasers Property’s core marks largely survived on narrowed specifications reflecting proven UK use. House of Fraser’s attempts to register FRASERS in property and financial classes were partially refused on grounds of likelihood of confusion. Bad-faith findings remained limited.
Small businesses should maintain clear records of UK use across all registered goods and services to withstand future non-use challenges.
Summarised in our own words from public sources.