Trademarking an event name

[WelcometoPlan]

Hello. I run an event management company and we're starting to organise in-house events.

One event we're looking to organise would have a very generic name. I'm worried on a competitor coming along after we're organised the event and taking the name and putting on the same event or a very similar.

I know you can't really trademark ideas unless they have some unique value, which this event will not, but can you trademark an event name to prevent it being used by anyone else?

Is so, would this be through the IPO? I know there is the National Business Register too, but I'm not sure if this would be relevant?

Any good advice anyone can give would be great!

James

 

[Deleted member 13430]

If the name you are looking to register is truly generic you won't be able to monopolise it by a trade mark registration, generic terms are free to all to use. Generally its a good idea to avoid trying to build a business around a generic term because it cannot be monopolised and others can use it. Obviously there may be elements of your brand which aren't generic, colour, stylisation etc. Basically I would advise trying to use a distinctive word but if you are set on this generic theme, make your brand as distinctive as possible. Combine the word with a distinctive logo for example and then register the combination as a trade mark. It will be harder to protect than a very distinctive brand but gives you a fighting chance.

If you are only looking at UK registered protection you would register the brand at the UKIPO. Happy to assist if you wish, I am a trade mark attorney. Drop me a PM if you want assistance.