Businesses often see their branding misappropriated. However, the range of intellectual property and allied rights which can attach to branding means care must be taken in developing a suitable strategy before taking action.
Branding registered as a trade mark
If the branding in question has been registered as a trade mark, then the simplest course is to consider trade mark infringement proceedings. Typically, infringement involves unauthorized use of a “substantially identical” or “deceptively similar” sign for:
* the same goods/services for which the mark is registered,
* goods/services “of the same description” as the goods/services for which the mark is registered,
* or services “closely related to the goods” for which the mark is registered(and vice versa).
However, because of the nuances of these tests, the possibility of non infringing uses and/or defenses and the risk of breaching the “unjustified threats” provisions of the Trade Marks Act 1995, it is advisable to seek advice from a trade mark law specialist before threatening or undertaking legal action for trade mark infringement.
Branding not registered as a trade mark
If the branding in question has not been registered as a trade mark, then other sources of rights may still exist, including possible rights under:
* the common law relating to ‘passing off’,
* the Consumer and Competition Act 2010 (CCA); and
* copyright.
Passing off most frequently occurs when a trader ‘puts off’ or ‘passes off’ that trader’s goods/services as those of another. The key ingredients of passing off are:
* reputation/goodwill accruing to the injured trader;
* a misrepresentation made by the wrongdoing trader; and
* damage to the goodwill of the injured trader.
The CCA, including the Australian Consumer Law (ACL), contains provisions which might apply depending on the nature of the particular branding misappropriation, including prohibitions in trade or commerce against:
* misleading or deceptive conduct or conduct likely to mislead or deceive; and
* making false or misleading representations about goods/services (including as to sponsorship, approval or affiliation).
Finally, copyright may be relevant where a logo is involved: although it is unlikely that copyright will subsist in a simple word or phrase (as a literary work), where the branding in question contains or comprises graphical elements, there may copyright in that as an artistic work.
Unregistered rights in branding can be difficult to identify and assert and professional advice on this should be taken accordingly.
ARETE Group can assist in registering your brand as a trade mark and can provide advice in relation to any unauthorised use of your brand.
Contact us on 6162 1639 or go to www.aretegroup.com.au
For further information or if we can assist,
visit our website at www.aretegroup.com.au or
email [email protected] for an obligation free assessment of your legal issues.
