2017-12-21
Are you planning to launch your own clothing line? Then, you may have been advised to obtain trademark protection. When considering trademarks, most people are in a dilemma of whether or not to trademark their apparel line. This is because trademark registrations can be expensive and demand time and effort. But, consulting a trademark agent can streamline this process considerably.
The importance of trademarks for fashion brands cannot be undermined. Imagine if popular brands like Calvin Klein and Burberry had not registered their trademarks? They would have been easily infringed and lost their customers as well as their stature. As your business grows, the public starts linking your brand name and logo to the design and function of your clothing products. Hence, protecting these goodwill bearers is vital. Here are a few reasons why you should trademark your clothing brand:
Trademarks Make Your Brand Stand Out
Can you recall any two GUCCI or Versace brands? No, right? Trademark protection offers owners exclusive rights to their marks. No other party can use GUCCI or Versace without the risk of being sued for infringement. When you obtain a federal registration for your trademark, others cannot use the same name and logo for the same products and services.
Generally, companies look to avoid infringing activities, and when others see that you have taken the name that they wished to trademark, they will move on to the next option on their list. Trademark registration deters others from using the same or similar name and helps you stand out in the eyes of customers.
It Enables You to Sue Infringers
The world is full of innumerable fashion brands, many of which people are unaware of. Imagine you chose not to trademark your clothing brand. Now, someone launches an apparel line with a name similar to yours and even trademarks it. This can have a detrimental effect on your business. Federal registration grants you exclusive rights over your trademark. You can enforce your rights against anyone using a mark which is the same or similar to yours. You can stop them from using this mark, and if they don’t cease to infringe, you can take legal action against them. Since infringement matters are complicated, it is best to consult a trademark agent to better understand these provisions.
Trademark Registration Offers Nationwide Protection
In Canada, federal trademark registration grants the owner nationwide protection for 15 years. If you opt to not obtain registration, then you may have to continue your business without this benefit. Protection for unregistered trademarks in Canada is limited to geographical areas where they are used and known. Not every apparel brand is a Louis Vuitton or Lacoste, who are so popular that they automatically deter upcoming fashion businesses from using a similar name. Since registered trademarks have a wider scope of protection, it is essential to protect your fashion line name and logo through trademark registration.
Consult a Trademark Agent
Trademark registration is worth the time and money it demands, especially in a highly competitive market like fashion. If you want to safeguard your clothing brand, then get in touch with a trademark agent.
