Many franchisors often overlook trademark registration while prioritizing the expansion of their franchises. If you’re a franchisor aiming to expand your business both locally and overseas, have you acknowledged the crucial role of trademark registration in safeguarding your brand? Neglecting to safeguard your intellectual property can result in costly legal disputes and long-term financial losses.
— In this blog, we will explore the complexities involved in trademark registration, its advantages for franchisors, the process of registering a trademark, and valuable tips for expanding franchises overseas. So sit tight and prepare to gain valuable insights!
What is a Trademark? and The benefits of trademark registration
A trademark is a symbol, word, or phrase that distinguishes a company’s brand from competitors, encompassing logos, slogans, sounds, and colors. Registering a trademark grants exclusive rights for its use with specific goods and services, although protection is limited to certain industries.
For instance, one can use “Fluffy” for clothing without infringing on someone else’s “Fluffy” pet food trademark.
Registration offers legal protection against infringement, aids in identifying counterfeits, and boosts brand recognition. Moreover, trademarks can be licensed or sold for revenue, making them valuable assets for franchise networks. Investing in trademark registration benefits franchisors seeking brand protection and global expansion.
How to register a trademark
By registering the trademark with the appropriate government agency, exclusive rights are gained, preventing others from using it without permission.
Here are the steps you need to follow to register your trademark in Thailand:
1. Conduct a search
Before registering your trademark, it is important to conduct a thorough search and ensure that no one else has already registered the same or a similar mark.
2. Determine the classes of goods and services
Trademarks are registered for specific classes of goods and services. You will need to determine which classes apply to your business.
3. File an application
Once you have conducted the search and determined the appropriate classes, you can file an application with the relevant authority in Thailand.
4. Wait for examination
Your application will be examined by officials who will determine whether it meets all requirements. This process may take several months.
5. Publication
If your trademark passes examination, it will be published in Thailand’s Official Gazette. This allows others who may object to your registration time to do so.
6. Registration
If there are no objections within two months after publication, your trademark will be registered!
Remember, registering a trademark can be a complicated process, so consider seeking legal advice!