UK High Court Rejects AI Image Search in B&Q Trademark Case

The UK High Court has denied Wren Kitchens’ application to conduct an AI-assisted search for further image evidence in its ongoing trademark infringement proceedings against B&Q. Deputy High Court Judge David Stone ruled that the proposed exercise, estimated at £100,000, would be disproportionate to its likely value.

The dispute involves comparative advertising claims concerning kitchen prices and allegations of trademark infringement under the UK Trade Marks Act. Wren sought to expand its evidence base using AI technology to scan for additional images, arguing recent advances justified the cost.

The judge concluded that the expense remained significant and that the probability of uncovering materially relevant material was low. Earlier estimates for similar work had reached £400,000 before being revised downward.

The decision highlights judicial scrutiny of discovery costs in trademark cases even where technology promises efficiency gains. The case continues on the existing evidentiary record.

Sources: https://trademarklawyermagazine.com/bq-v-wren-uk-high-court-rejects-ai-assisted-image-search-in-trademark-dispute/ https://www.law360.com/articles/2536101/black-sheep-coffee-blocks-black-sheep-club-eu-tm-bid