In Nigeria, businesses have the option to trademark a name other than their registered company name. This approach can help businesses build brand recognition and differentiate themselves in the market. To trademark a name, businesses need to conduct a trademark search to ensure that the name is available for registration and submit an application to the Nigerian Trademarks Registry. If the application is approved, the business will be granted a trademark for the name, giving them exclusive rights to use it in relation to the goods or services specified in the application. Here are five Nigerian businesses that have successfully trademarked a name different from their registered company name:
DOMINO’S PIZZA: The pizza chain is owned by Eat’N’Go Limited, which is registered as “Eat’N’Go Limited.” The name Domino’s Pizza is trademarked, which allows the company to use it exclusively for its pizza products.
CHICKEN REPUBLIC: The fast-food chain is owned by Food Concepts Plc, which is registered as “Food Concepts Plc,” but it operates under the brand name Chicken Republic. The name is trademarked, which allows the company to use it exclusively for its fast-food services.
SHOPRITE: The retail chain is registered as “Retail Supermarkets Nigeria Limited,” but it operates under the brand name Shoprite. The name is trademarked, which allows the company to use it exclusively for its retail services.
INDOMIE: The instant noodle brand is owned by Dufil Prima Foods, which is registered as “Dufil Prima Foods Plc.” The name Indomie is trademarked, which allows the company to use it exclusively for its instant noodle products.
GALA: The sausage roll brand is owned by UAC Foods Limited, which is registered as “UAC Foods Limited.” The name Gala is trademarked, which allows the company to use it exclusively for its sausage roll products.
By trademarking a name other than their registered company name, businesses in Nigeria can protect their intellectual property and build brand recognition. It’s important to conduct a thorough trademark search and follow all legal and compliance requirements for trademark registration to ensure the best chance of success. With the right approach, businesses can leverage the power of a strong brand name to gain a competitive advantage in the Nigerian market.
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