Protecting the identity of a business is essential to ensure its uniqueness in the marketplace. However, many entrepreneurs confuse the name registration with the trademark registration. Although both procedures concern the protection of a company's brand, they differ significantly in their legal force and the extent of the protection they provide. In this article, we will analyze the difference between these two concepts and why the trademark registration is the strongest legal protection for your business.
What is business name registration?;
The registration of a name involves the registration of a trade name in the General Commercial Register (G.E.M.I.) or other similar organisations. This procedure is necessary for establishment of a company and allows the use of that name for commercial activities.
However, the registration of the name does not provide full legal protection, as:
- It does not prevent other companies to use the same name in a different industry.
- It does not protect the brand name from copying or misuse by competitors.
- Does not cover logos or advertising elements, as it concerns only the name of the company.
The registration of a name in the G.E.M.I. is mandatory for all businesses, but does not in itself offer exclusive rights of use.
What is trademark registration and why is it more powerful?;
The trademark (trademark) is a distinctive element, such as a name, logo, slogan or even colours, that distinguishes a company's products or services from those of its competitors. It is registered through the Industrial Property Organisation (OBI) in Greece or the EUIPO for pan-European protection.
The trademark grants exclusive rights to the holder and ensures:
- Legal protection against businesses trying to use the same or similar name.
- Exclusivity of use of the brand in specific sectors and markets.
- Strengthening the value of the business, as it can act as an asset.
- Potential for international expansion, through the system of Madrid Convention.
Main differences between trademark and name registration
| CharacteristicName Registration (G.E.M.H.)Registration Trade Mark (OBI) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Registration of a name for business use | Legal protection of the brand |
| Authority | General Commercial Register (G.E.M.I.) | Industrial Property Organisation (OBI) |
| Field of application | Limited legal validity, only as a business name | Total legal protection in products & services |
| Exclusive right of use | No, other businesses can use a similar name | Yes, no one can use the same or similar mark |
| Coverage | Only in Greece | Greece, European Union, international protection |
| Duration | Valid as long as the undertaking exists | 10 years renewable |
Which one should you choose for your business?;
Η registration of a name is mandatory for each company, but does not provide absolute protection. If you want to protect your brand and prevent its use by competitors, the trademark registration is necessary.
It is recommended to proceed with the two procedures for full legal cover:
- Registration of a name at G.E.M.I. to set up your company.
- Trademark registration at OBI to obtain exclusive rights of use.
Common mistakes to avoid
- You assume that registration in the G.E.M.I. protects you legally - without trademark registration, other companies can use your name.
- You do not check availability before vesting - make sure that the name you want is free and in the registers of the OBI.
- You do not renew your brand - the protection of trademark lasts for 10 years and requires renewal.
- You do not register your trademark internationally - if you have expansion plans outside Greece, you need protection at European or international level.
What DARC Advertising can do for your business
Η DARC Advertising helps you to protect both your brand and your trademark, ensuring maximum protection for your brand. Through expert advice and legal services, we ensure that your business has the legal cover it needs to grow and establish itself in the marketplace.
