Resource from: IPWATCHDOG

The recent case of Deckers Outdoor Corp. v. Wolverine Group Pty Ltd. serves as a cautionary tale for brand owners on the importance of pursuing foreign trademark protection early and often. The case revolves around who can use the term “UGG.” For many in the United States and other parts of the world, “UGG” is widely recognized as a specific brand of sheepskin boots. However, in Australia, “UGG” is a generic term referring to a style of sheepskin boots rather than a specific brand. As a generic term, “UGG” is not entitled to trademark protection in Australia, allowing any company within the country to use it freely.