Brand name vs generic name


When deciding upon a brand strategy or trademark, be careful not to choose a name that is too generic - the registrar will ask you to acknowledge the fact that your proposed mark is common and this will weaken your trademark.Naming an invention involves developing at least two names. One name is the generic name. … Continue reading Brand name vs generic name

CIPC processes you should know about


The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission – CIPC – is responsible for a number of processes which govern companies’ existence and operations. From registration of companies and intellectual property rights such as patents, designs and copyright; disclosure of information on its business registers to enforcement of relevant legislation –CIPC’S processes and functions are crucial for the continued … Continue reading CIPC processes you should know about

What are “common law” trademark rights?


National registration is not required to establish trademark rights. "Common law" rights arise from the actual use of a trademark without national registration. Generally, whoever first uses a trademark in commerce has the ultimate right to use that trademark in that way. However, there are many benefits of national trademark registration.