The purpose of the initiative is to clean up the Canadian Trademark Registry, eliminating inactive sign registrations that may serve as obstacles for new applications, thereby contributing to a more efficient system.
Implementation of the program will begin with the proactive issuance of notices to randomly selected holders of trademarks registered more than three years ago. Recipients will be required to provide evidence of the use of the trademark or an adequate justification for the non-use.
To facilitate the process, the Office will provide guides and resources to assist holders in preparing their responses. In addition, once a sufficient number of cases have been analyzed, the continuity of the project will be evaluated, and possible adjustments will be considered, depending on the opinions gathered.