THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING FIRST – TRADEMARKS FOR BIG BUSINESS

It’s never too early to protect your trademark. And it should be one of the first considerations when starting your own business. It is a smart, commercially responsible thing to do and gives you peace of mind by shielding your mark from any unauthorised use.

Not only do trademarks ensure that everything runs smoothly, but studies also show that companies who register their trademark are likely to be more successful than those who don’t. But why is this? Let’s look at the basics.

What is a trademark?

By definition, a trademark is a word, logo or verbal element that differentiates one trader’s goods from another. It is a valuable business asset that protects your image and allows customers to easily identify your brand.

Why should I register it early?

One of the best-known early examples of a successful trademark is Coca-Cola, who decided in 1892 to protect their trademark when they were a relatively small business. Over one hundred years later, the elaborate Coca-Cola script remains one of the most recognisable trademarks in the world.

By filing your trademark early like Coca-Cola, you can protect your business from other companies imitating your mark, which could otherwise result in loss of business of damage to your reputation. A trademark allows you to take legal action to stop this happening. It can also save you time and money on branding should someone register your mark before you do.

What’s the difference between registered and unregistered?

While you are not legally required to register your trademark, you should be aware of the differences:

Registered trademarks offer legal exclusivity and protection in a specific territory. You can use the letter “R” to show others that it is registered.

Unregistered trademarks are classed as intellectual property or intangible assets. And while the law covers unregistered trademarks, the unlikelihood of a successful claim is much higher as they rely on much more difficult measures of protection. You can use a “TM” to show that a symbol is yours.

Here to help

At Turner Little, we have decades of experience registering trademarks to ensure you get exclusive rights to your name. We can also help you vigilantly monitor your critical assets and react quickly to potential discrepancies and threats. So, speak to a member of our trusted team and get your trademark right first time.