Your logo represents your business. When a customer sees it, they associate it with you. Thus, it can be confusing when another company, especially a competitor, copies it. In addition to negatively impacting your business, it’s unlawful for others to use your trademark without permission.
If this happens to you, here is what to do.
Send them a demand letter
When you confirm a business has copied your logo, perhaps you visited their physical or online store and had a close look, you can send them a letter. In the letter, include details about your trademark, how they have infringed your intellectual property (IP), how it has affected your business and demand for them to cease using it
The other business owner may be unaware of the infringement. They may have hired a team to develop a logo, but they copied yours without their knowledge. In such an instance, they may respond positively and cease using the logo.
However, this is not always the case. They may ignore your letter and keep using your logo. In this case, you can consider other options.
Take legal action
Undeniably, the letter route could have been convenient. But since it didn’t achieve the desired outcome, you may need to go to court. With this option, you may need to prove the logo is similar or identical to yours, and the other business uses it on goods or services similar to those covered by your trademark.
The court will examine your case and give a verdict. They can ask the other business to stop using the logo and possibly cover the damages you incurred due to their action.
If you notice another company is using your trademark, you should get legal guidance to protect your IP and business.