As Tom Petty sang, the waiting is the hardest part. After you put time, effort, and money into filing your trademark application you want to hear something, anything, from the United States Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO). But in reality, not hearing anything bodes better for your registration. Once they receive your application, along with … Read more
Imagine you own a t-shirt manufacturing company called Bob’s Snazzy Shirts. You’ve worked hard to make Bob’s the region’s leading producer of t-shirts. After years of slow growth, you’re finally ready to make your company a national contender. You just need that one special shirt design to take you there. One night you go to … Read more
Next to the Statue of Liberty, the woman in the Columbia logo is the most recognizable statue in the US. The gorgeous painting depicts a glowing sunset and billowing clouds that surround a beautiful woman. Like that other famous monument, she lifts one arm bearing a torch and wears a flowing robe. This elegant symbol … Read more
Amazon is one of the biggest companies in the world. One of the so-called Big Four of Technology, the massive online retailer has annual sales of more than $200 billion dollars. Amazon has also been behind many innovations in technology, including drone package delivery, robotic workers, online cloud services and voice-activated assistance. Amazon began as … Read more
The National Broadcasting Company (NBC) is known for its peacock logo and its three-note chime. When you hear that sound and see that colorful bird, you know you’re watching NBC. NBC is a major force in network television. It’s the oldest broadcasting company in the US. The NBC logo has been part of the company’s … Read more
When you see golden arches, you probably think of McDonald’s. These golden double arches are among the most recognized symbols in the world. They point the way to a McDonald’s meal whether you’re in Iowa, Canada, the Philippines or France. How did McDonald’s come up with them? It all starts with a drive-in restaurant in … Read more
The NASA logo has gone through several changes. In fact, one of its designs came back after decades of retirement. Two of its best-known logos, affectionately known as the “meatball” and the “worm,” symbolize the optimism that underlies the positive view most people have of NASA. A Moon and a Meatball The 1969 moon landing … Read more
Justice is blind, at least theoretically. Frequently we see big-guy versus little-guy cases end overwhelmingly in favor of the big-guy due to sophisticated legal tactics utilized by teams of lawyers. In the face of such resources, it’s easy to understand why David toppling Goliath was the upset of the millennium. But even with such scenarios, … Read more
The phrase, “Where’s the beef?” has become an indelible part of our culture. It has appeared in TV shows, popular songs, games and even a presidential debate. It all began when a fast food company wanted to shake up its advertising. History of Wendy’s Dave Thomas was born in Atlantic City but moved around the … Read more
McDonald’s “I’m lovin’ it” is the fast food company’s longest-running marketing campaign. The well-known, five-syllable jingle that accompanies it is as popular as some radio hits. There’s a reason for that popularity, as you’ll see when you read the fascinating history of this well-known slogan. Brief History of McDonald’s The story of McDonald’s is almost … Read more
Creating a unique name, logo, or slogan for your product or service business comes with the responsibility to trademark the name, logo, or slogan to ensure that another company or person does not use the idea for their own financial gain. The Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB) is tasked with hearing appeals of trademark … Read more
During 1893, a pharmacist created a unique beverage that featured a refreshing flavor and many natural ingredients. Caleb Bradham formulated a drink that contained lemon oil, nutmeg, water, sugar, caramel and cola nuts. The beverage eventually became Pepsi-Cola, which is a product that has become known the world over. Throughout the last 122 years, the … Read more
Whether you have a Mac, iPhone or tablet, you are probably familiar with Apple products. Apple is one of the most famous technology companies in the world. It sets itself apart by focusing on a sleek and attractive design in addition to a secure platform. Like many companies, Apple spent a lot of time and … Read more
When people see the Starbucks logo, they often think of a hot cup of coffee, a pastry or two, or an iced beverage that’s full of flavor. However, the Starbucks logo history contains a few other details that those who enjoy the company’s offerings might not know about the logo itself and the company. Who … Read more
To date, the purchase of competitors’ trademarks as keywords that activate sponsored links has spurred more than 100 trademark infringement lawsuits in the U.S. and Europe. In all but a handful of those suits, courts have ruled in favor of the defendant, leaving plaintiff trademark owners largely without recourse. However, for many business owners, the … Read more
Think of all you’ve invested in building your brand. You’ve carefully crafted a brand identity that appeals to customers and sets you apart from competitors. You have poured money and time into delivering superlative products or services that cement your reputation for quality. You have also probably thought long and hard about selecting the brand … Read more