Registered Trademark Symbol ™ ®
® and ™ are the two symbols commonly used to indicate trademarks. ® is used as the registered trademark symbol and ™ is used for marks that have not been registered. The registered trademark symbol provides notice that the word or mark has been registered and is protected by law. A logo, symbol, word, or words may be registered for representing services or products.
Non-registered Trademarks ™
Your business can use the ™ symbol at any time and you do not need to register that mark to be able to use the ™ symbol. Use the ™ symbol to inform your competition that your business considers the mark to be a trademark. The goal is for competitors to see the symbol that marks your trademark claim.
Registered Trademarks ®
The ® symbol may only be used after a trademark has been registered. The ® symbol may not be used while the trademark application is pending and the ® symbol may only be used in connection with the goods and services listed on the registration certificate.
Service Marks ℠
The ℠ symbol stands for Service Mark, which indicates services rather than goods, but because the abbreviation SM has another derogatory meaning, it is rarely used. The ™ symbol works fine and should be used instead.
Trade Mark Quote
More information regarding Trade Marks:
Trade Mark a color in South Africa – The South African Trade Marks Act specifically provides for the registration of non-conventional trade marks, such as colors. A mark is defined as any sign capable of being represented graphically including, shapes…
Trade Mark Search – It is always advisable that the trade mark be searched before the application is made. In order to be considered register-able, your trade mark must be capable of distinguishing your goods or services from those of your competitors…
Trade Mark Requirements – It serves the purpose of distinguishing the goods/services of one trader from those of another trader. It does not consist exclusively of a sign or an indication which may serve, in trade, to designate the kind, quality, quantity, intended…
Trade Mark Application Requirements – We would require you to provide us with a copy of your intended trademark – be it a simple name or slogan, or a stylised logo. We would also require details of all products or services that you intend…
Trade Mark Exclusions – Marks that may NOT be Registered: Emblems fall under the protection of the Merchandise Marks Act. The following are regarded as state emblems: Seal of the Republic, Coat of Arms of the Republic…
Trade Mark Costs – Contact us to request prices for trade mark searches, applications, renewals and trade mark assignments….
International Trade Mark Protection – Your mark should be registered in the countries in which you offer your products or services under that mark. You should also consider filing in countries where you intend to use the mark in the future…
Trade Mark Protection in South Africa – A trade mark is a mark which distinguishes your goods or services from goods or services of others in South Africa, or elsewhere. Trade Marks are register-able in terms of the South African Trade Marks…