Columbia Pictures Fails to Block GHOST BUSTER EU Trademark

Columbia Pictures Industries Inc. failed in its attempt to prevent registration of a GHOST BUSTER trademark for lighting products in the European Union. European authorities rejected the opposition on October 14, 2026, determining that the Ghostbusters franchise's reputation did not extend to the relevant goods.

The decision underscores limits on reputation-based protection under Article 8(5) of the EU Trade Mark Regulation. While the mark benefits from significant recognition in entertainment and related merchandise, officials found insufficient evidence that use on lighting products would take unfair advantage of or harm the earlier mark's distinctive character or repute.

The case involved a Dutch applicant and highlighted that well-known marks do not automatically block similar signs across unrelated commercial sectors. Columbia Pictures maintains extensive registrations for GHOSTBUSTERS in classes covering media, apparel, and toys.

The ruling provides guidance on the evidentiary thresholds for opposition based on reputation in EU trademark proceedings.

Sources: https://trademarklawyermagazine.com/columbia-pictures-loses-eu-trademark-challenge-to-ghost-buster-mark/ https://www.law360.com/articles/2537644/columbia-pictures-can-t-scare-away-ghost-buster-tm