1. Introduction to Brand Name Registration
Your brand name is one of your business’s most valuable assets. Registering it gives you exclusive rights and protects your identity from competitors. This guide explains the process of brand name registration in the UK and why it’s essential for long-term business success.
2. What is Brand Name Registration?
Brand name registration is the legal process of securing your business name as a trade mark. Once registered, it gives you the exclusive right to use the name in your chosen industry and prevents others from copying or misusing it.
3. Why Register a Brand Name?
- Exclusive rights – Stop others from using your brand name.
- Legal protection – Take action against infringement.
- Business credibility – Builds trust with customers and investors.
- Asset value – A trade mark can increase your company’s value.
- International protection – Option to expand protection globally.
4. What Can Be Registered?
You can register:
- Business names
- Product names
- Logos and slogans
- Unique symbols, designs, or even sounds (in some cases)
5. What Cannot Be Registered?
A brand name won’t be accepted if it is:
- Offensive or misleading
- Too generic (e.g., “Clothing Shop”)
- Describes the product directly (e.g., “Tasty Bread”)
- Too similar to an existing trade mark
6. Steps for Brand Name Registration in the UK
- Search for availability
- Use the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) trade mark database.
- Make sure your name isn’t already taken.
- Choose the right trade mark class
- Trade marks are grouped into classes (e.g., clothing, food, technology).
- Select all classes relevant to your business.
- Prepare your application
- Details of your brand name, logo, or slogan.
- Information about your goods or services.
- Submit your application
- Apply online through the IPO website.
- Pay the fee (£170 for one class, £50 for each additional class).
- Examination process
- The IPO checks your application.
- If accepted, it’s published for 2 months to allow objections.
- Receive registration
- If no objections are raised, your trade mark is approved.
- You’ll receive a certificate of registration.
7. Costs of Brand Name Registration
- £170 for one class (online application)
- £50 for each extra class
- Valid for 10 years, renewable indefinitely
8. International Brand Name Registration
- Apply via the EUIPO for EU-wide protection.
- Use WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization) for global registration.
9. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing a name too similar to competitors
- Forgetting to register under the right classes
- Assuming company registration protects the brand (it doesn’t)
- Failing to renew the trade mark after 10 years
10. Alternatives to Full Registration
- Company House registration – Protects your business name legally but not as a brand.
- Copyright – Protects creative works like logos but not business names.
- Unregistered trade marks – You may have limited rights under “passing off” law, but protection is weaker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long does brand name registration take in the UK?
Usually 3–4 months if there are no objections.
Q2: Do I need a lawyer to register a brand name?
Not required, but legal advice is useful for complex applications.
Q3: Can two businesses have the same brand name?
Yes, if they operate in different industries or classes.
Q4: How long does a trade mark last?
10 years, with the option to renew indefinitely.
Q5: Does registering with Companies House protect my brand name?
No. Only a trade mark provides full brand protection.
Q6: Can I sell my registered brand name?
Yes. Trade marks are intellectual property assets that can be sold or licensed.
Conclusion
Brand name registration is essential for protecting your business identity in the UK. By securing a trade mark, you gain exclusive rights, credibility, and long-term legal protection. With a relatively low cost and straightforward process, registering your brand name is a smart investment in your company’s future.