The EUIPO released its new international registrations back office, with the view to enhance the efficiency, operational effectiveness and security of all the related processes. Low added value tasks are now automated and the upgrade provides an integrated platform for all the trade mark processes, as well as several new functionalities. The release of the new functionalities was done in close coordination with WIPO.

The release is part of the IP Tool project, that started in 2014 with the scope of integrating all the EUIPO’s separated back office systems into one single platform. Now, nearly all examiners are using the same tool, covering different stages of the entire lifecycle of an EUTM, from filing and publication to final registration, as well as dealing with the examination procedures for international applications and subsequent designations. Thanks to this, the EUIPO is expecting to process approximately 29500 trade marks in 2020. In 2019, international registrations represented 17.8% of filings received by the Office.

Further improvements envisaged for the back office systems will also include the integration of the Community Design examination tools and cover other Office areas, such as the publication, Boards of Appeal and litigation.