Grünecker has again been recognised as a gold tier firm in the new WTR 1000 ranking. The firm, which filed 369 EU trademarks, 166 German trademarks and 37 international trademarks in 2020, is described by the editors as a “force to be reckoned with in the German trademark space”. Competitors call the firm “pragmatic, hands-on and tough but fair”. One client attests that: “the team shows great expertise, is very agile and flexible, and is always keen to learn more about the way we work”.

In addition to the gold tier ranking for Grünecker, Maximilian Kinkeldey, Nicolás Schmitz and Holger Gauss were also awarded gold. “Trademarks wizard” Maximilian Kinkeldey is described by a client as “a fountain of knowledge, especially when it comes to US trademark matters. He has taken the lead on difficult litigation with formidable opponents, coming through victorious nearly every time, and can be relied upon to see the big business picture and advise practically and creatively”. Nicolás Schmitz is singled out by clients for his “can-do attitude” while “client magnet” Holger Gauss is described as “highly responsive, creative and pragmatic in his approach” by a client. The client further states that Holger Gauss ”understands the needs of demanding US tech clients, providing concise and insightful advice. He is also incredibly well connected, and can quickly bring in excellent, responsive counsel in other countries within and outside the European Union, particularly in complex cross-border disputes”. Anja Franke who boasts strong connections to Europe and Asia and “contentious ace” Cornelia Schmitt, who “provides excellent advice and has a strong understanding of the European opposition system” received a bronze tier ranking. Clients describe Philipp Strommer as “proactive, cost conscious and creative” and state: “Philipp is always thinking of different ways to achieve a result and is very responsive, often providing advice within the same day”.