McDonald’s loses Big Mac trademark across EU after legal battle with Irish fast food chain

Anca Alexe 16/01/2019 | 13:29

McDonald’s has lost the trademark rights for its Big Mac burger across the European Union after a legal battle with an Irish chain called Supermac’s, CNBC reports.

Supermac’s brought the case before the EU Intellectual Property Office two years ago, accusing McDonald’s of “trademark bullying” as it had been using its trademark on Big Mac to stop Supermac’s from trademarking its own name in the EU, which would allow it to expand beyond Ireland and Northern Ireland.

McDonald’s said Supermac’s name was too close to their Big Mac trademark and would confuse the public.

The EU regulator ruled this week that McDonald’s was not using the trademark according to EU law. The ruling will take effect immediately, but McDonald’s said it would appeal the decision.

“We’re delighted. It’s a unique victory when you take on the golden arches and win,” Pat McDonagh, Supermac’s managing director, said. “This is a victory for all small businesses. It prevents bigger companies from hoarding trademarks with no intention of using them,” he added.