A Significant Fee Increase Is Coming

From 1 April 2026, the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) will introduce a wide-ranging fee increase across trademarks, designs and patents. Subject to parliamentary approval, the rise will average around 25%, marking the first trade mark fee increase in nearly three decades.

For businesses, this means that delaying filings or renewals could result in materially higher costs after April 2026.

What Is Changing?

Although the exact increases vary by service, the general trend is clear: almost every IPO fee will rise.

Key trade mark changes include:

· Trademarks Currently £170 when filed online. This will increase to £205.

· Patents Currently £90. Rising to £120.

· Designs Currently £50. Increasing to £60.

Across the board, the increases reflect the IPO’s need to keep pace with rising operational costs and to fund long-term digital improvements.

Why the Increase?

The IPO has explained that:

· inflation and operational pressures mean current fee levels are no longer sustainable

· efficiency savings alone can’t cover increasing costs

· additional revenue is needed to maintain service quality and support ongoing modernisation of IPO systems.

In short, the increase is structural rather than temporary, and it affects almost every interaction businesses have with the IPO.

Berry Smith’s Bottom Line

The upcoming IPO fee increases represent a major shift for businesses that rely on trade mark, design or patent protection. Whether you are considering filing an application or have an upcoming renewal, Acting before April 2026 can minimise costs and ensure your IP portfolio is in the strongest possible position.

Our Commercial and IP team regularly advises clients on trademarks and wider IP strategies. For expert guidance, you can reach our commercial lawyers at 02920 345511 or commercial@berrysmith.com