Trademarks for 'Rectorska' and 'Professorska' Sausages Face Expiration in 2026

Poplavskyi's Trademark Portfolio at Risk

According to Главком: Ukrainian businessman and former university head Mykhailo Poplavskyi could lose the legal protection for several of his food trademarks in February 2026. This is due to the expiration of their ten-year registration period under Ukrainian law. Specifically, the certificates for the 'Rectorska Sausage' and 'Professorska Sausage' brands are set to expire on February 22, 2026. Both trademarks were registered in December 2016, and Ukrainian legislation stipulates that a trademark's legal protection lasts for ten years from the application date.

Furthermore, the registration for Poplavskyi's 'Varenyky' trademark will end on February 11, 2026. In Ukraine, the average cost to register a trademark is approximately 12,000 hryvnias, a relevant consideration given the businessman's extensive portfolio. For context, trademark renewals are a routine but critical administrative task for brand owners to maintain their exclusive rights.

The Scope of Poplavskyi's Business Empire

Mykhailo Poplavskyi, who served as president of the Kyiv National University of Culture and Arts (KNUKiM) from 1995 until 2026, is currently the owner of 183 trademarks. His business network includes well-known restaurant brands such as:

• Batkivska Khata
• Kozak-Hall
• Varenyky

Additionally, a line of meat, dairy, and alcohol products is marketed under the 'Poplavok' brand. Poplavskyi also owns the 'Urozhai' farming enterprise, which cultivates over 3,000 hectares of leased land.

Following Poplavskyi's tenure, the duties of the university's president have been assigned to Ihor Komarnytskyi, a professor from the department of hotel, restaurant, and tourism business. Under Poplavskyi's leadership, the institution attained university status, opened a doctoral program, and expanded its range of specializations.

The potential loss of trademark protection could significantly impact Mykhailo Poplavskyi's business operations, as these brands are key assets. Poplavskyi should prioritize timely renewal of the registrations to avoid any commercial setbacks.

The leadership transition at KNUKiM may also influence the university's future development, given the substantial changes implemented during Poplavskyi's active presidency. The appointment of a new president could mark a pivotal phase in defining fresh strategic directions for the institution.