Industry experts agree that trademark registration may benefit small businesses

Trademarks are important for worldwide brands like Coca-Cola and local businesses, too.

This is according to a new article in the Ottawa Business Journal that reminds small business owners why trademark registration makes good sense.

Author Amy Thomas of Moffat & Co says that having a trademark can prevent other businesses nationwide from using the same or similar and potentially confusing business name.

Thomas advocates registration because, "[a] trademark registration is the only effective protection for a name that is used in commerce whether it is a business name or a name for products."

She reminds readers that trademark registration also protects images, logos, and slogans.

Once a trademark has been established, another industry expert from Moffat advises businesses that a "trademark must always be maintained, protected, and correctly used" to retain its value.

The experts note that trademark registration is a lengthy process that includes application, approval, a period for comment, and finalization.

----------------------------------------------------