Trademarks useful information
This factsheet is intended as an outline of the relevant provisions but it is not comprehensive and should not be relied on as authoritative; in the interests of ease of use, many of the explanations are simplified. Specific advice should be obtained on any particular issues.
Generally speaking, trade marks are used to distinguish the goods or services of one business from those of another (1). Common types of trade marks are words, letters, logos, numerals and combinations of these. More unusual types of trade marks include sounds, smells, colours and shapes of products/packaging (e.g. the distinctive shapes of bottles for drinks).
Join a thriving community of skilled directors and leaders
Ask us about membership
Better directors for a better world
The IoD supports directors and business leaders across the UK and beyond to learn, network and build successful, responsible businesses.
Running a successful business
Browse valuable business advice resources from the IoD.