What are the differences between a European Union Trade Mark (EUTM) and local trademarks?

The process for obtaining a European Union Trade Mark (EUTM) is different from getting local trademarks in terms of time and efficiency. By submitting a single application to a central authority, a trademark owner can secure protection in all EU member countries, which is cost-effective. This approach also prevents the cancellation of the trademark for non-use in other member countries if the business is focused on just one or two countries. However, the application must be accepted by all member countries; otherwise, it will be rejected across the entire EU. In some cases, the trademark owner can apply for protection in individual countries.

The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), previously known as the Office of Harmonization in the Internal Market, is the authority responsible for registering EUTMs and is located in Spain.