Different types of Trade Mark

1. UK Trade Mark- A UK trade mark is registered with the UK Intellectual Property Office and just covers any infringement in the UK. An application for registration costs £200

Pro: A cost effective way to create a strong brand for your business

Con: This does not stop anyone in the rest of the EU member states from infringing your mark

1. Community Trade Mark- A Community Trade Mark (CTM) is a mark that is registered for all 28 member states of the European Union. The Office of Harmonisation of the Internal Market (OHIM) considers all application for CTMs and charges the fee of €900 for a standard application.

Pro: Can implement your brand across the EU which allows for expansion of business

Con: If a previous mark is registered in any member state that is similar to your potential mark, your application will fail.

1. International trade mark protection- A mark can be registered for a number of different international organisations through the Madrid system, which developed through the Madrid Protocol and Madrid Agreement. The trade mark in question will be considered for registration with the international organisations such as the EU, The African Intellectual Property organisation etc.

Pro: The Madrid System is the one-stop solution for trademark holders to obtain and maintain protection in multiple markets.

Con: This can be a very expensive way to represent your brand 

By Ellis Sweetenham