Introduction to
Intellectual
Property
Dr. Kirsty Brummell
Defining
Intellectual
Property
Intangible property resulting from creativity and innovation
Patents
Confidential
Information /
Know-How
(Trade Secrets)
Plant Varieties
Database
Rights
Why protect
Intellectual
Property?
➢ To stop other businesses/individuals from using what you
have created without permission i.e. your brand name,
designs, literary works, artistic works, invention
➢ Can help act as a deterrent to competitors and other businesses
from using your IP
➢ Helps you to control your business reputation and the value of your IP
➢ Provides you with opportunities to maximise on the commercial
potential of your IP through e.g. licensing and sales agreements
➢ Can help attract investors when they are looking at whether to
invest in your business
Trade Marks
Badge of
Origin
A trade mark means any sign which is capable of
distinguishing the goods or services of one
business/individual from those of other traders
Main brand
name
S logo
Cartoon character
Front of pack design
Other types
of Trade
Marks
Slogan
Shape
Colour
Position
Pattern
Tips for
Selecting a
Brand Name
✓ The more inventive, unusual, unique your brand
name/logo is, the easy it will be to protect as a
Trade Mark and stronger rights
✓ Avoid descriptive terms for your main brand name in
relation to products or services offered where
possible
✓ Avoid common terms in use in the general language
and in your trade
✓ Avoid using a brand name that could create confusion
as to the nature, quality or geographical origin of your
products or services
✓ Think about long term strategy and whether your brand
name/logo will be suitable if your business expands into
other product and service areas and markets
How to
protect your
Trade Mark
Trade Mark law in the UK is governed by the UK Trade Marks Act (1994)
Registered Trade Mark Rights
❖ The best way to protect your brand name/logo is through trade
mark registration
❖ Trade marks are territorial rights and trade ma