EUIPO blocks Turkish brand FiLe over Mercadona trademark similarities

The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) has blocked the registration of the Turkish brand FiLe for most food and beverage products within the EU. The decision follows an opposition by the Spanish supermarket chain Mercadona.

While the EUIPO acknowledged that the names ‘Mercadona’ and ‘FiLe’ are distinct, it ruled that the brands share a conceptual similarity. Both logos utilize figurative elements representing a shopping basket or bag, leading to a ‘certain degree of visual and conceptual similarity in their overall impression.’

The office recognized Mercadona’s significant reputation and market presence in Spain. The ruling stated that the similarity could lead consumers to establish a mental link between the two brands, potentially allowing FiLe to unfairly benefit from Mercadona’s commercial strength and prestige without economic compensation.