According to the documentation of the Polish Patent Office (exclusive right no. R.236646), the trademark expired after the 10-year protection period, calculated from the filing date—29 July 2009.
The trademark was registered as a joint protection right by three entities from Bolesławiec County:
- Fabryka Naczyń Kamionkowych “Manufaktura” Sp. j. Smoleński & Zwierz,
- WR Ceramika s.c. (Jarosław, Katarzyna and Władysław Rutyna) from Tomaszów Bolesławiecki,
- P.P.H.U. “Tyrcz” Alina Tyrcz.
The cost of protection in three service and goods classes was PLN 1,200, payable once every 10 years.
In the past, the trademark was promoted by the Ceramic Brotherhood as confirmation of the local origin and quality of the products. Now, however, due to the lack of protection, any producer may legally use this designation, even if their ceramics do not come from the region or meet specific standards.
As the istotne.pl website reports, this may result in the symbolism of “Bolesławiec Ceramics” being misused by entities unconnected with the region, potentially distorting the image of the local brand and misleading customers about the product’s origin.
From the perspective of local producers, this means the need to protect their own interests through new trademark applications or other marketing activities that will distinguish original products from potential imitations.