Liverpool Football Club has failed in its bid to trademark the word “Liverpool” when used in the context of football products and services.
The club applied to the Intellectual Property Office a few months ago, because it felt that people were “benefiting” from “inauthentic products” related to Liverpool FC.
In a statement, the club said:
“The club accepts the decision that has been taken by the Intellectual Property Office, due primarily to what the official judgement cites as “the geographical significance” of Liverpool as a city in comparison to place names that have been trademarked by other football clubs in the UK.
We will, however, continue to aggressively pursue those large-scale operations which seek to illegally exploit our intellectual property and would urge the relevant authorities to take decisive action against such criminal activity wherever it exists.”
Peter Moore, LFC’s Chief Executive Officer, added:
“It should be stressed that our application was put forward in good faith and with the sole aim of protecting and furthering the best interests of the club and its supporters. Nevertheless, we accept the decision and the spirit in which it has been made.
“I would also like to take the opportunity to reiterate our thanks to all those who engaged with us throughout this process, most notably independent traders and local football clubs.”
Liverpool supporters club, Spirit of Shankly called the decision “victory for common sense.”
“SOS were clear at the outset that the word ‘Liverpool’ is not for FSG or anybody else to own – it belongs to the city of Liverpool and its people. We should all be allowed to use it freely, however we see fit, without fear of legal letters dropping through our doors.
“LFC have enough legal remedies from their current trademarks to address any issues they may have. Any more is unnecessary.
“Without fan activism this issue may not have ended like this. Without fan involvement there would be no challenge to the corporate greed within football. SOS remain vigilant to the stealth of the club in their relentless pursuit of money at any cost.”
