On 1 October, changes came into effect across the European Union which broaden the range of things for which trade mark protection can be given. It is no longer necessary for a trade mark to be in visible form.

Trade marks can now include sounds, smells or moving images as well as specific colours and holograms. In addition, the providers of quality assurance standards can trade mark their logos and permit others to use them under licence to show their compliance with the relevant standard.

The EU Intellectual Property Office has further information on the changes.