Summary：EU Trademark Filings Soar to Record High in First Half 2026 **Introduction** The European Union In

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EU Trademark Filings Soar to Record High in First Half 2026

**Introduction**
The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) reported a striking surge in trademark applications during the first six months of 2026, reaching an all‑time high of 1.84 million filings. The jump, which marks a 12 % increase over the same period last year, reflects a broader wave of entrepreneurial activity and brand‑protection strategies across the bloc. Analysts say the uptick is driven by both established corporations expanding their portfolios and a growing number of start‑ups seeking to secure distinctive signs in a competitive market.

**Key Developments**
Several factors contributed to the record numbers. First, the EUIPO’s new online filing platform, launched in late 2025, cut average processing time from three weeks to under ten days, encouraging more frequent submissions. Second, a series of high‑profile infringement cases—most notably the MillerKnoll v. Bubble Lamp dispute in the U.S. Sixth Circuit—prompted European firms to pre‑emptively register logos, slogans, and even non‑traditional marks such as sound and motion. Third, the EU’s “Green Innovation” incentive program, which offers reduced fees for eco‑friendly brands, attracted over 210 000 applications from sustainable‑technology companies.

**Industry Analysis**
The data reveal shifting priorities within the IP landscape. While classic product trademarks still dominate (≈62 % of filings), there is a noticeable rise in service‑based marks, particularly in digital health, fintech, and renewable energy sectors. This trend aligns with the EU’s Digital Decade goals, which emphasize intangible assets as drivers of economic