WHAT IS A TRADE MARK?

A trade mark is any 'sign' which can distinguish the goods and services of one trader from those of another. A 'sign' includes words, logos, colours, slogans, three-dimensional shapes and sometimes even sounds and gestures.

A trade mark is therefore a 'badge' of trade origin. It is used as a marketing tool so that customers can recognise the product of a particular trader. To be registrable in the UK, it must also be capable of being represented graphically, that is, in words and/or pictures.

ACG members are trade mark owners and may also own copyright and design rights in products and packaging.