How to Register a Brand in the UK

Your brand is one of your most valuable business assets. It is how customers recognise you, remember you, and trust you. Registering your brand as a trademark gives you exclusive legal rights and prevents competitors from copying your identity. This guide explains how to fully protect your brand in the UK.

What Does "Registering a Brand" Mean?

In the UK, there is no separate "brand registration" process. When people talk about registering a brand, they mean registering a trademark. A trademark can protect:

• Your business name (word mark)
• Your logo (device mark)
• Your slogan or tagline
• Your product names
• Distinctive colours or sounds associated with your brand

Step-by-Step: How to Register Your Brand

Step 1: Identify Your Brand Elements

Decide which elements of your brand you want to protect. Most businesses register:

• Business name (essential)
• Logo (if you have one)
• Key product names (if applicable)

Step 2: Conduct a Comprehensive Search

Before applying, we search the UK IPO database, EUIPO records, and common law sources to check your brand elements are available. This prevents wasted applications and potential conflicts.

Step 3: Choose the Right Trademark Classes

Your brand must be registered in the correct classes for your goods or services. There are 45 classes total. Choosing the wrong classes can leave your brand unprotected in key areas.

Step 4: File Your Application

We prepare and file your application with the UK IPO, ensuring all details are correct to avoid delays or rejection.

Step 5: Registration

After 3-4 months (assuming no oppositions), your brand is officially registered and protected for 10 years.

How Much Does Brand Registration Cost?

Registering your brand in the UK costs from £490 per trademark. This includes:

• Comprehensive trademark search
• Professional application preparation
• UK IPO filing fees
• Ongoing application monitoring

If you want to register your name, logo, and a product name separately, each requires its own application. View our package pricing.

Brand Protection Checklist for UK Businesses

• Register your business name as a word mark
• Register your logo as a device mark
• Register key product/service names
• Choose all relevant trademark classes
• Set up trademark monitoring for infringement
• Mark your brand with ™ (unregistered) or ® (registered)
• Diarise renewal dates (every 10 years)
• Register matching domain names and social media handles

Common Brand Registration Mistakes

• Not searching thoroughly: Skipping the search can lead to opposition or rejection
• Wrong classes: Choosing incorrect classes leaves your brand exposed
• Descriptive names: Purely descriptive brand names are often refused
• DIY applications: Self-filed applications have a higher rejection rate
• Not monitoring: Failing to watch for copycats can weaken your protection

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