Software giant Apple is locked in a court battle over the ownership of the trademark MacPro after a Melbourne IT company called Macpro Pty Ltd challenged Apple’s right to the trademark.
Apple, whose MacBook Pro laptop computer is a best-seller around the world, appeared in the Federal Court on Friday to continue the three-year tussle with the Melbourne IT firm.
According to IP Australia’s trademark database, Apple attempted to register the MacPro trademark in May 2006. Three months later, Macpro, which has been operation since 1983, lodged a notice of opposition via its law firm, Blake Dawson.
IP Australia determined Apple could use the MacPro trademark on some goods, but not on others. Apple is now fighting that decision in the Federal Court.
A spokesman for Macpro said the company has been instructed not to comment on the case.
Apple was not available for comment at the time of publication.
Related articles:
James was the editor and publisher of SmartCompany and LeadingCompany for five years. He is now the Australian Financial Review‘s companies & markets editor, and a former BRW editor.
