Every Tuesday and Friday,
WTR presents a round-up of news, developments and insights from across the trademark sphere. In our latest round-up, we look at the USPTO announcing an acting director after Andrei Iancu’s exit; the EU General Court decision in a dispute over HALLOUMI and BBQLOUMI; CBP seizing $8 million in fake Cartier bracelets; and much more. Coverage this time from Bridget Diakun (BD), Jonathan Walfisz (JW) and Trevor Little (TL).
Market radar:
Frasers Group ups investment in Hugo Boss – Mike Ashley’s Frasers Group has raised its stake in Hugo Boss, reports
Bloomberg. The UK retailer now controls a 15.2% “strategic position” in the Germany luxury fashion company. It is the latest investment that Ashley has made in retailers both in Europe and the United States – the group already having its hand in Mulberry Group, Studio Retail Group and French Connection Group, among others. Frasers Group’s investment in competitors is a strategic move that aims to “elevate” its own brands. “Holding significant positions in glossy fashion houses, such as Hugo Boss or Mulberry, can help cement their supplier relationships with Frasers’ brands – particularly its Flannels and House of Fraser luxury department stores,” says a Bloomberg analyst.