Registration of a Name and Trademark

Full Guide for Business

Η registration of the name is one of the most critical steps for any business that wishes to maintain its uniqueness and protect its brand. A company's brand is inextricably linked to its brand and its brand name. trademark (trademark), as it is a key element of its visibility. In this article, we will analyze the process of trademark registration and how it relates to trademark protection.

What is trademark registration and why is it necessary?;

The brand of a company is its name, which differentiates it from other companies in the same industry. Brand registration ensures that no other company can use the same or similar name, preventing confusion in the marketplace.

Brand protection through a trademark is important for the following reasons:

• Legal protection: Prevents third parties from using the same or a similar name that may be confusing to consumers.
• Strengthening the corporate identity: A unique branding enhances the visibility and credibility of your business.
• Maintenance of exclusivity: Trademark registration ensures that your brand is owned exclusively by you.

Differences between the registration of a name and a trade mark

Many businesses confuse brand registration with branding. trademark registration. However, these are two different procedures:

• Registration of a name: Made in General Commercial Register (G.E.M.I.) and concerns the legal name of the company.
• Trademark registration: It is made in Industrial Property Organisation (OBI) and provides legal protection for the brand and its brand identity.

Η registration of a name does not in itself offer complete protection. For example, a business may have the same name as you but in a different industry. Η trademark registration is the only procedure that ensures exclusive rights of use throughout the market.

Name and trademark registration procedure

Step 1: Check brand availability

Before registering, it is necessary to check if the desired name is available:

• Search in G.E.M.I. for existing registered names.
• Check in the database of the OBI for pre-existing trademarks with a similar name.

Step 2: Registration in the General Commercial Register (G.E.M.I.)

The registration of the name is done through the G.E.M.I., following the following steps:

1. Submit an application with the name and the necessary corporate documents.
2. Approval by the Registry and receipt of an official certificate.
3. Publication in the register of companies.

Step 3: Registering a trademark with the OBI

The procedure includes:

1. Submit an application to Industrial Property Organisation (OBI) with name, logo and protection classes.
2. Evaluation of the application for potential conflicts with existing marks.
3. Publication and objection period.
4. Final approval and issuance of the trademark certificate.

This process protects your business from legal issues and prevents others from using your brand name.

International trademark and trade name protection

If your business operates outside Greece, international protection of your name is essential. There are three main ways:

• European trademark (EUTM): Provides protection in all EU countries through the EUIPO.
• International trademark (Madrid): Covers multiple countries with a single application to the WIPO.
• National registration in each country separately, if the system of WIPO does not cover specific countries.

Common mistakes in brand name and trademark registration

Some common mistakes that businesses make include:

• Failure to register a trade mark, considering that the name in the GNI provides sufficient protection.
• Choice of descriptive or generic names, which cannot be registered as trademarks.
• Inadequate availability check, leading to legal disputes with other companies.
• Non-renewal of the trade mark after 10 years, resulting in the loss of rights.

What DARC Advertising can do for your business

Η DARC Advertising specialised in registration of a name and trademarks, helping businesses to secure their legal protection and strengthen their brand. We provide comprehensive solutions for registration in Greece and internationally, ensuring that your brand is fully protected.