Trademark Registration by Sigma Solutions
Introduction
In 2023, an emerging fashion startup based in Northeast India created a distinctive brand identity around handcrafted clothing and artisanal accessories. As the brand grew in popularity, the founders began noticing unauthorized use of their logo and name by copycat sellers—both offline and online.
The startup lacked a registered trademark, making it vulnerable to brand theft, legal disputes, and rejection by future investors or online platforms. To secure exclusive ownership, they approached Sigma Solutions for full-spectrum trademark registration and intellectual property (IP) protection.
Challenges Faced by the Founders
Despite having a unique identity and customer following, the startup faced several critical challenges:
1. Lack of Trademark Awareness
- The founders didn’t know:
- That trademark registration offers legal exclusivity
- That it’s essential for Amazon, Flipkart, or offline retail entry
- How branding assets like logos, slogans, and taglines are protected by law
2. Fear of Name or Logo Conflicts
- Unsure whether:
- Their chosen brand name and logo had already been registered
- Similar trademarks would lead to rejection or opposition
3. Perceived Complexity of the Process
- Thought trademark registration involved:
- Endless government paperwork
- Long waiting periods (12–18 months)
- Objections they wouldn’t know how to handle
4. Opposition Risk
- Concerned about:
- Third-party objections once published in the Trademark Journal
- Needing legal representation if opposition or dispute arose
5. Future Global Branding
- Wanted to know:
- How to protect their brand internationally
- Whether their Indian trademark could support global e-commerce platforms
Solution Provided by Sigma Solutions
Sigma Solutions offered a comprehensive and fully managed trademark service—from research and filing to objections handling and future-proofing for international branding.
Implementation Strategy
1. Trademark Search & Conflict Analysis
- Conducted a detailed brand name and logo search on:
- IP India Trademark Registry Database
- Additional checks across Class 25 (clothing), Class 35 (retail), and related categories
- Advised minor brand name formatting to:
- Increase registration chances
- Avoid likely objections
2. Class Selection & Application Filing
- Identified correct trademark classes:
- Class 25: Clothing, apparel, accessories
- Class 35: Marketing, retail, e-commerce services
- Prepared and submitted Form TM-A with:
- Owner details
- Trademark representation
- Class, description, and usage claims
- Included user affidavit, priority claim (if applicable), and design representation
3. Objection Handling & Legal Advisory
- Monitored status through the Examination Report from the Trademark Registry
- Responded promptly to:
- Minor examiner queries
- Objections under Section 11 (Similarity) or Section 9 (Descriptiveness)
- Offered legal support if third-party opposition was raised during the journal publication phase
4. Trademark Journal & Registration Completion
- Managed publication in the Trademark Journal (4 months observation period)
- Ensured no adverse claims were made
- Facilitated issuance of Trademark Registration Certificate within expected timelines
5. Post-Registration Brand Protection & Global Strategy
- Advised on:
- Using the ® symbol once registration was approved
- Trademark renewal cycle (10 years validity)
- Steps to register trademark internationally through the Madrid Protocol
- Helped draft an IP protection strategy aligned with long-term expansion goals
Results Achieved
Outcome | Details |
Trademark Successfully Filed | Application filed with the Indian Trademark Office under Class 25 |
Legal Brand Ownership Secured | Exclusive rights over brand name and logo obtained |
Protection from Imitators | Prevented unauthorized usage by competitors and counterfeiters |
Ready for Global Expansion | Structured for international trademark registration via Madrid Protocol |
Stronger Brand Credibility | Enabled Amazon Seller registration and increased investor confidence |
Conclusion & Key Takeaways
Trademark registration is not optional—it’s essential. In today’s competitive market, securing exclusive brand rights is the first step toward long-term business stability, investor trust, and market growth.
With the expert support of Sigma Solutions, the fashion startup:
- Gained legal ownership of its brand
- Protected its visual identity
- Prepared for international expansion without future disputes
Key Learnings:
- Conducting a trademark search before branding is vital
- Class selection and legal response strategy significantly impact success
- A registered trademark builds brand value and legal credibility
- Sigma Solutions handles everything—from search to registration and post-filing support
Related Services by Sigma Solutions
- Copyright & Patent Registration
- ISO Certification for Exporters & Manufacturers
- Startup India & Udyam (MSME) Recognition
- GST, FSSAI & E-Commerce Compliance
- Business Branding, IP, and Licensing Support
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Client Testimonial
“We were worried about competitors
copying our brand name, but Sigma Solutions took care of everything. From
trademark search to final approval, they made the process simple and smooth.
Now, our brand is legally protected, and we can expand confidently.”
— Co-Founder, Fashion Brand – Northeast India