Service allows users to check if brand name or logo is already on trademark register
The Intellectual Property Office of NZ (IPONZ) has unveiled a new online service that allows users to check if a brand name or logo is already on the country’s trademark register.
IPONZ’s Trade Mark Check service is now available on its website. In a statement, IPONZ said that the service can lead users to clear and straightforward results, and information about the next steps.
“This can provide amazing opportunities and advantages, especially for smaller businesses or people who are starting out with an idea,” said Rebecca James, trademarks manager at IPONZ. “With Trade Mark Check, you can find out instantly if somebody else has already applied to register the trademark, and potentially save thousands of dollars in branding costs.”
James said that the service is free and that IPONZ is currently taking on feedback from users.
“The good thing about Trade Mark Check is that anyone can use it – for free,” she said. “IPONZ has launched it as a beta version and wants to know what everyone thinks of it. We will be taking this feedback on board, updating and improving the tool to make sure we’ve got the best possible product that anyone can use, and that best works for them.”
