Trade Mark Use

Guidance on the correct use of a trade mark in the market place, in particular to maintain distinctiveness.

Correct Way to Use a Trade Mark

A trade mark is a valuable asset as it distinguishes the goods or services of one business from that of another. If possible a mark should be registered to give the best protection.

To maintain distinctiveness, a trade mark must be used correctly.

Such use may be on the goods themselves or on packaging, websites, advertising materials or brochures.

Trade Mark Terms

TM - a trade mark that may or may not be registered

SM - a service mark that may or may not be registered

® - a registered trade mark. It is an offence to use this symbol if the mark is not in fact registered.

Trade Mark Acknowledgment

“..... ABCD is a registered trade mark in UK of ABCD Limited.”

A trade mark acknowledgement often appears on packaging, printed matter and websites, to inform the consumer of the sign’s origin.

When a trade mark is licensed, the acknowledgement could use the following wording:

“..... ABCD is a registered trade mark in UK of ABCD Limited used by EFGH Limited under licence.”