How to Trademark Your Business Name in the UK (Step-by-Step Guide)
Introduction - Why It Matters
Choosing a strong business name is one of the first major steps in building a brand. But having a great name doesn’t automatically mean it’s protected. In the UK, you need to register your business name as a trademark to get exclusive legal rights and stop others from using it. A registered trade mark gives you stronger protection than a company name or domain name alone.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to trademark your business name in the UK, how much it costs, the process with the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO), and how to avoid common mistakes.
1. What Is a Trademark?
A trade mark is a legal right that protects signs that distinguish your goods or services from others. In practice, this means a word, logo, slogan or combination of elements can be protected as your brand identity. Once registered with the UK IPO, you gain the exclusive right to use it in the UK for the goods or services you list. ([GOV.UK][2])
Unlike a UK company name, a trademark gives legal protection against others using a similar name in your market - and helps you enforce your rights if infringement happens.
2. Business Name vs Trade Mark — What’s the Difference?
Many people think registering a company name at Companies House protects the name. It doesn’t. A company name simply identifies your business for legal and tax purposes.
Company name – Identifies your legal entity Trade mark – Protects your brand identity across the UK
Only a registered trademark gives you exclusive rights nationwide - meaning you can stop others from using your name in the same industry.
3. Step-by-Step: How to Trademark Your Business Name in the UK
Step 1 — Decide What to Trademark
Decide whether you’re trademarking:
Just the business name (word mark)
The logo
Both name and logo
Word marks usually offer broader protection because they cover the name in any style or font.
Step 2 — Conduct a Trademark Search
Before applying, you must check that your proposed name isn’t already registered or similar to an existing mark. Use:
UKIPO trademark database
Google & social media
Domain name searches
If someone else has a similar trademark in your class, your application may be rejected. ([GOV.UK][2])
Step 3 - Choose the Right Classes
The UK IPO uses classes to group goods and services (e.g., clothing is Class 25). Select the classes that match what you sell now and what you plan to sell in the next 5 years. Choosing the wrong class can leave gaps in your protection. ([GOV.UK][3])
Step 4 - Prepare Your Application
To file your application, you’ll need: The mark (name/logo) Owner details (individual or company) Class(es) and description of goods/services
Applications are filed online through UKIPO. ([GOV.UK][2])
Step 5 - Submit and Pay Fees
The basic fee for a UK trademark application is usually £170 for one class, plus £50 for each additional class. Costs increase if objections arise or professional help is needed. ([GOV.UK][2])
Step 6 - Examination, Publication & Grant
After filing:
UKIPO examines your application
If approved, your mark is published in the UK Trade Marks Journal
Others can oppose within 2 months
If no opposition or objections pass, the mark is registered
This process typically takes 3–6 months for uncomplicated applications.
4. How Long Does a Trademark Last?
Once granted, a UK trade mark is valid for 10 years. You can renew indefinitely for further 10-year periods by paying a renewal fee every decade. ([GOV.UK][2])
5. What You Can and Cannot Register
You can trademark: Words Logos Slogans Colours or combinations
You cannot register: Generic, non-distinctive names Descriptive terms that merely describe the goods/services Offensive or misleading terms ([GOV.UK][2])
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not doing a full trademark search Choosing the wrong class Assuming a company name is protected Not trademarking early enough - brand risk is highest before filing
Avoiding these can save time, money and possible legal disputes later.
7. Benefits of Registering a Business Name as a Trade Mark
Exclusive UK rights Legal protection against copycats Valuable asset for your business Ability to license or sell your mark Use of ® symbol once registered ([GOV.UK][2])
Conclusion: Protect Your Brand with Confidence
Trademarking your business name in the UK is one of the smartest moves you can make as a business owner. It gives you legal peace of mind, protects your investment and strengthens your brand presence.
If you need help with a trademark search or filing, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Trademarking a Business Name in the UK
Can I trademark my business name in the UK as an individual?
Yes. You do not need a limited company to register a trademark in the UK. You can apply as an individual, sole trader, partnership, or limited company. The owner listed on the application will own the trademark rights.
Is registering a company name the same as trademarking a business name?
No. Registering a company name with Companies House does not give you trademark protection. A company name only identifies your legal entity, whereas a registered trademark gives you exclusive rights to use the name in connection with specific goods or services across the UK.
How much does it cost to trademark a business name in the UK?
The official UKIPO fee starts at £170 for one class, plus £50 for each additional class. Additional costs may apply if professional help, searches, or objections are involved.
How long does it take to register a trademark in the UK?
If there are no objections or oppositions, a UK trademark usually takes 3 to 6 months to be registered. Delays can occur if the UKIPO raises objections or if a third party opposes the application.
Do I need to do a trademark search before applying?
Yes - this is strongly recommended. A trademark search helps identify existing similar marks that could block your application or lead to legal issues later. Many refusals happen because applicants skip this step.
Can I trademark a business name that is already in use?
Sometimes. It depends on:
Whether the existing name is trademarked
The goods or services involved
How similar the names are
If another business is using a similar name in the same or related industry, your application may be refused or opposed.
What happens if someone objects to my trademark application?
If an objection or opposition is raised, you’ll usually be given time to respond. Some issues can be resolved through legal arguments or negotiation, but others may require changes or withdrawal of the application.
How long does a UK trademark last?
A UK trademark lasts 10 years from the registration date and can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years by paying a renewal fee.
Can I use the ® symbol once I apply?
No. You can only use the ® symbol after your trademark is officially registered. Using it before registration is not allowed in the UK. Before registration, you may use the ™ symbol instead.
What is the difference between trademarking a name and a logo?
A word mark protects the business name in any font or style. A logo mark protects only the specific design shown in the application.
Word marks usually offer broader protection, which is why many businesses start with them.
Is trademark protection valid outside the UK?
No. A UK trademark only protects your brand in the UK. If you plan to trade internationally, you may need:
EU trademark protection
International protection via the Madrid System
Is it worth getting professional help to trademark a business name?
Yes, especially if your brand is valuable or you plan to grow. Professional help reduces the risk of refusal, opposition, or weak protection caused by incorrect classes or descriptions.