McDonald's loses "Big Mac" trademark as EU court sides with Irish rival Supermac's
How might the court's decision impact Supermac's expansion plans within the EU?
The court's decision to revoke McDonald's Big Mac trademark registration in the EU could have a significant impact on Supermac's expansion plans within the EU. The ruling opens the door for Galway-based Supermac's to expand its operations into other EU countries without facing potential legal challenges from McDonald's over the use of the Big Mac name2. This decision may also set a precedent for other small businesses to challenge large multinational corporations in trademark disputes, making it easier for them to expand their operations within the EU.
Supermac's managing director, Pat McDonagh, has welcomed the decision and stated that the company can now look to expand its operations abroad, having been "stifled" by the trademark issue. The court's ruling could provide a competitive advantage for Supermac's as it seeks to establish itself in the European market, potentially drawing customers who are looking for an alternative to McDonald's and its iconic Big Mac burger.
What were the specific categories for which McDonald's could not prove the use of the Big Mac name over a five-year period?
McDonald's could not prove the use of the Big Mac name over a five-year period for chicken sandwiches, poultry products, or restaurants1.
How did McDonald's fail to prove the use of the Big Mac trademark according to the EU General Court's judgment?
According to the EU General Court's judgment, McDonald's failed to prove that it was genuinely using the Big Mac trademark over a five-year period for chicken sandwiches, poultry products, or restaurants. The court found that McDonald's had not provided sufficient evidence to demonstrate the use of the trademark in connection with these specific categories. As a result, the court ruled in favor of Irish fast-food rival Supermac's, which had requested the revocation of McDonald's Big Mac trademark registration1.