Trade Marks
In essence, a trade mark can be anything, which distinguishes your business from those of other traders. The most common are word or combination of words and logos. However, it could also be the shape of your products or their packaging, a slogan or musical tune used in advertising and promotion, like the direct line jingle. Less common and harder to protect are colours on their own or smells - but certainly not impossible. The question is whether there is anything that distinguishes your business from other traders - and can we put it down on paper - if so it is potentially protectable by registration.
Trade Marks can also be registered in a number of countries individually or even throughout the European Union via a Community Trade Mark ("CTM") which is a single trade mark covering all 27 countries of the European Union. There is also the International system known as The Madrid Protocol which can cover a range of countries together.
BlackPointe Consulting provide a comprehensive and up to date trade mark service for clients wishing to register and protect their marks in the UK, Europe or further a field. We act for a range of well-known companies as well as small SMEs and individuals.
We have particular expertise and experience in dealing with the protection of trade marks outside the UK including, the Community Trade Mark system for the protection of trade marks and also designs and international trademark applications using the Madrid Protocol registration system or in individual countries using our network of associates around the world.
We can also advise on the enforcement of your trade marks including advising on infringement, passing off (and other common law rights) and counterfeit issues.
