Read this carefully before registering your trademark
If you're about to launch your business, you've probably asked yourself: what should I register first, my business name, my logo, or my trademark? Although they seem the same, legally they are not. In this quick guide, we explain the difference between each, what you can register, and how to truly protect your business identity.
What is a trademark?
A trademark is any distinctive sign that identifies products or services in the market. It can be a word, an image, a combination of both, colors, sounds, or even three-dimensional shapes. Trademark registration grants you exclusive rights to that sign throughout the country.
What is a trade name?
A trade name identifies a company or establishment in its economic activities, regardless of the specific products or services it offers. Its protection is limited to the geographic area where it has real and effective recognition, unless it is registered with the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI).
And the logo?
The logo is the graphic representation of your brand. It can be part of a mixed trademark (name + design) or registered separately as a figurative trademark. It is advisable to register your logo if it is an essential part of your visual identity.
What can you register with the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI)?
With the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property, you can register:
- Word marks (text only)
- Mixed marks (text + design)
- Figurative marks (design or logo only)
- Trade names
- Commercial notices (advertising phrases)
This grants you exclusive rights to use them throughout Mexico and the ability to legally defend your identity if someone copies them.
What can't you register?
You cannot register names or signs that are:
- Generic or descriptive of the product or service
- Names that are identical or similar to existing trademarks Registered trademarks
- Contrary to morality or public order
- Used as proper names, flags, or official emblems without authorization
Should I register the name, the logo, or both?
Ideally, you should register both. The name protects the verbal aspect of your brand, while the logo protects the visual aspect. Together, they form a comprehensive defense against imitation and misuse by third parties.
Conclusion
Registering your trademark is not just an administrative step: it is a strategic decision to protect your business. Knowing the difference between a trademark, logo, and trade name allows you to make smarter decisions and legally protect your identity.
Do you want to protect your brand professionally?
At Innovamotion Agency, we help you register your trademark, trade name, or logo with the Mexican Institute of Public Works (IMPI), without errors or complications. Receive personalized advice and avoid wasting time with rejected applications.