Client
Autodistribution International, a Belgium-based leader in automotive parts distribution operating across Europe
Type of work
Trademark prosecution; response to provisional refusals
Details of matter and your firm’s role in it
Polikarpov Law Firm represented Autodistribution International in overcoming two provisional refusals from the Ukrainian IP Office regarding International Registrations Nos. 1755952 (blue logo) and 1758688 (red logo), filed under the Madrid System. The refusals cited a likelihood of confusion with a previously registered Ukrainian trademark owned by the client’s affiliated French entity, Autodistribution. The client aimed to secure protection for both logo variants in Ukraine while maintaining brand consistency and avoiding delays or rebranding.
The main challenge was demonstrating to the Ukrainian IP Office that the coexistence of the cited and applied-for marks would not mislead consumers, despite their visual and conceptual similarities and shared industry context.
The team prepared a Letter of Consent covering all services in Classes 35, 37, and 42, including provisions for future examiner-led adjustments to service descriptions. The firm submitted well-reasoned legal responses that applied relevant Ukrainian trademark law provisions and aligned with established examination practice.
As a result, in January 2025, the Ukrainian IP Office granted protection for both trademarks.
Individuals involved
Anastasia Shevchuk: Senior IP Associate, lead on legal argumentation and client coordination.
Industry sector/technology
Automotive aftermarket
