There is a special kind of trademark in the sea of trademarks––associated trademarks, which appear in the registration applications under the same goods or services like star troupes, guarding the honors and values of a brand together. The present article is going to uncover the mystery of associated trademarks and see how they are riding the waves in the sea of commerce!
01 What are associated trademarks?
Associated trademarks refer to those marks which are owned by the same proprietor in respect of identical or similar goods and services. These trademarks may have slight visual differences, but they all share the same core brand value and recognizability. Their purpose is to enhance the brand’s defensive capabilities by increasing the number of trademarks, thereby preventing others from confusing consumers with similar trademarks and damaging the brand image.
02 What are the advantages of associated trademarks?
² Enhance brand recognition: Associated trademarks increase brand recognition in consumers’ minds through different styles of trademark designs, making the brand more personalized and differentiated.
² Strengthen brand protection: By registering multiple similar trademarks, enterprises can build a solid brand protection barrier, effectively preventing others from engaging in unfair competition through similar trademarks.
² Expand brand market: Associated trademarks can be promoted in different fields and markets, thereby expanding the brand’s market coverage and influence.
² Shape brand image: Associated trademarks can convey the brand’s diversity, innovation, and inclusiveness, contributing to shaping a more three-dimensional and richer brand image.
03 Typical cases of associated trademarks?
1. Apple Inc.’s “Apple”: the company not only registered the trademark “Apple”, but also associated trademarks such as “iApple”, “Apple Store”, ensuring its brand is fully protected in all fields.
2. Nike’s “Swoosh”: Nike’s iconic “Swoosh” logo is a typical associated trademark. In addition to the main trademark, Nike has also registered multiple similar graphic trademarks to prevent imitation and infringement by others.
3. Baixiang Food Company has registered associated trademarks such as “白象喝好汤”, “白象多半桶”, “白象好好吃面” etc. for goods in the 30th category, including “instant noodles”, playing an active and proactive defensive role.
04 How to apply for associated trademarks registration?
1. Determine the scope of trademark registration: Based on the actual situation of the enterprise and market demand, determine the scope of trademarks to be registered, including the categories and geographical regions of goods or services.
2. Design the trademark logo: According to the brand concept and core values of the enterprise, design a logo with high recognizability and uniqueness.
3. Submit the trademark registration application: Submit the designed trademark logo to the Trademark Office for examination. When submitting the application, it is necessary to fill in the relevant application forms and pay the corresponding fees.
4. Trademark examination and approval: The Trademark Office will conduct formal and substantive examinations on the submitted trademark. If the examination is passed, the Trademark Office will issue a trademark registration certificate, marking the official success of the trademark registration.
05 Conclusion
As an important means of brand protection, associated trademarks play an increasingly significant role in modern commercial competition. By registering multiple similar trademarks, enterprises can build a solid barrier for brand protection, effectively preventing others from engaging in unfair competition through similar trademarks. Additionally, associated trademarks can enhance brand recognition and influence, laying a solid foundation for the long-term development of enterprises. Therefore, for every enterprise aspiring to ride the waves and succeed in the business world, understanding and mastering the registration and application of associated trademarks are of paramount importance.
鄂公网安备 42010402001546号