Question

Topic: Branding

Trade Name Versus Domain Name Usage

Posted by Anonymous on 1/19/2009 at 8:29 PM ET 250 Points
I am considering trademarking two business names. One I have had registered as a trade name since 2000, as well I own the .com version of the domain name. There is a second name I want to register as a trade name and also trademark. However, various people are using the name on their websites. One person owns the domain ending with .com, someone else .net and a third person owns .org. I own .us. None of the others businesses in the same state as me. All of us are in similar fields as the name implies a type of holistic living. Is it a good thing or a bad thing to register a trade name that others are using in other states or on a website? If I were to trademark either or both of the names, would everyone else have to stop using them?
Thank you
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RESPONSES

  • Posted by ilan on 1/19/2009 at 10:52 PM Accepted
    Ignore for a moment the "legal" issues.
    Think of the value of the name. Is it right for you?
    Does it reflect the brand the way you want it to?
    Don't forget that geography has no value today, we live in a global economy, and brands live online for the whole world to see.
    So having the same name in another state is like having a competitor in your back pocket.
    Stick to one name, without changes, without compromises.
    Maintain consistency and avoid confusion for your customers.
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