Η intellectual property includes a set of rights that protect a company's creativity and innovation. One of the most important elements of this protection is the trademark (trademark), which safeguards a company's unique identity, preventing its use by third parties. In this article, we will discuss how trademark protection is linked to general intellectual property and why it is vital to any business.
What is intellectual property and how does it relate to trademark?;
Η intellectual property includes legal rights that protect a company's creative ideas and innovative products. Its main categories are:
- Trademarks (trademarks): They protect a company's distinctive elements, such as the name, logo and slogans.
- Patents (patents): They concern inventions and innovative technologies.
- Copyright Copyright (copyrights): Cover artistic and literary works, such as books, music and videos.
- Trade secrets (trade secrets): Protect confidential information, such as recipes or business strategies.
The trademark is one of the most important forms of intellectual property, as it protects a company's reputation and identity. Registering it ensures that competitors cannot exploit your brand, preventing counterfeiting and copying.
Why is trademark protection necessary?;
Registering a trademark offers significant advantages to businesses:
- Legal protection: Provides the exclusive right to use the trademark and the possibility to take legal action against infringements.
- Strengthening confidence: Consumers recognise and trust businesses with registered trademarks.
- Prevent copying: Prevents competitors from using similar marks, reducing the risk of deception.
- Commercial value: A powerful trademark increases the value of the business, facilitating growth and expansion.
Trademark registration procedure
To register your trademark, you need to follow specific steps:
- Availability survey
Before registering, you should check that the mark is unique and does not infringe existing rights. This is done through trademark databases, such as that of OBI in Greece. - Submission of an application
The process involves applying online or physically to the Industrial Property Organisation (IPO) or the EU Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) if you want protection at European level. - Monitoring and publication
The competent office examines whether the mark qualifies and publishes it, giving third parties the opportunity to object. - Definitive registration
If no objections are raised or rejected, the mark is registered and remains protected for ten years, renewable.
Common mistakes in trademark protection
Trademark registration can present challenges. Some common mistakes include:
- Filing of general or descriptive terms, which may be rejected.
- Inadequate investigation of availability, leading to legal disputes.
- Failure to renew the mark, which may result in the loss of rights.
- Lack of legal advice, especially if you wish to obtain an international registration.
What DARC Advertising can do for your business
Η DARC Advertising specializes in trademark protection, helping businesses to establish and maintain their unique identity. Through our services, we ensure that your brand is legally protected, enhancing your business's reputation and value.
