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Spain’s Patent Office Annuls ‘La Mafia se sienta a la mesa’ Trademark, Orders Name Change

The ruling follows EU decisions backing Italy, giving the company one month to appeal.

Overview

  • The Spanish Patent and Trademark Office (OEPM) adopted the EU rationale on February 26 and ordered the restaurant chain to change its name in Spain.
  • The OEPM found the mark contrary to public order and good morals because it directly reproduces the name of a real criminal organization whose activity persists.
  • Italy first sought annulment in 2015, the EUIPO agreed, and the EU General Court upheld that view in 2018, which ended EU-wide protection while Spanish registrations remained until now.
  • The company says it is reviewing legal options, including an administrative appeal, and is considering a new brand identity while rejecting any negative intent in its current name.
  • Filing figures cited by Spanish media show 83 restaurants and €132 million in 2025 sales, and reports note the decision could imperil stated expansion plans toward 2028.