Trademark search

By registering a sign as a trademark, the holder gains a unique monopoly on its use for specific products and services. However, this advantage for one party can be a disadvantage for another—particularly for those searching for a new name for their company or product. It is essential to conduct a search to ensure that your desired trademark can be used. The internet is an excellent starting point for an initial rough check, as it can quickly reveal whether a domain name is unavailable or if there are potential competitors with the same name. However, keep in mind that an internet search covers only a fraction of the possible conflicts.

Holders of earlier similar trademarks, as well as companies with older trade names, may also object to your use of a name. The issue is not limited to identical names; objections can arise from visual, phonetic, or conceptual similarities. If the resemblance is too strong and the mark is used for related products or services, a company may be forced to rebrand. This can result in significant costs, including product recalls, redesigning logos, updating websites, reprinting materials, and modifying social media presence. More importantly, it can lead to the unnecessary loss of accumulated goodwill.

To avoid these financial and reputational risks, it is crucial to check the availability of a name at the earliest stages of the creative process by conducting a trademark search. Various types of searches are available, ranging from quick preliminary checks to comprehensive in-depth investigations.