Patenting brand name: How do you really protect your brand name?

Would you like a "patenting a brand name"? Then you are not the only one! Many entrepreneurs and companies use this search term, while there is actually a misunderstanding in the term itself. It is in fact not possible to apply for a patent on a brand name. What you can do is register your brand name as a trademark to obtain exclusive rights.

Our law firm specializes in registering trademarks. We guide you through the entire process, from initial consultation to official registration. Below we explain how we do this and the difference between a patent and a trademark registration.

Patent versus trademark registration: What's the difference?

It is important to first understand the distinction:

• An patent (or patent) protects technical inventions or innovative processes. Think of new technologies, machines or chemical processes.
• An trademark registration provides protection for names, logos, slogans or other signs you use to distinguish your products or services from those of competitors.

In short, a patent is for inventions, while a trademark registration protects your brand identity.

What are the benefits of trademark registration?

• Exclusive rights: No one else may use your brand name within the registered classes.
• Value structure: A registered trademark can represent significant value to your business.
• Legal protection: If infringed, you can take legal action and seek damages.

How do you protect a brand name?

The process may seem complicated, but we make it simple for you. Here's how we help you:

1. Analysis and advice
   We investigate whether your brand name is available is and advise you on the best strategy to best protect your brand.
2. Choosing the right classes
   Together, we determine the sectors in which your brand name should be protected.
3. Submission of registration
   We should the application in at the Benelux Office for Intellectual Property (BOIP) and make sure everything is handled correctly. Want protection within the European Union or in other countries of the world? No problem, we arrange that too.
4. Aftercare and monitoring
   We monitor the status of your trademark and alert you to possible infringements or when renewing your trademark registration.

What if I do need a patent?

If you want to protect an innovation in addition to your brand name, a patent may be relevant. For example, when you have developed a new product that offers a technical advantage. For this, our lawyers can assist you with an application to the Intellectual Property Office (DIE). for a Belgian patent or at the European Patent Office (EPO) for a European patent.

Conclusion: choose the right protection

Although you cannot patent a brand name, you can effectively protect your brand name through a trademark registration.

Want to make sure your trademark is properly protected? Leave the registration process to our experts. Our attorneys have extensive experience with trademark registrations and will ensure that your brand name gets the protection it deserves.