trademark use

patentandtrademark

There seems to be a bit of confusion over the use of trademarks.  A quick and dirty definition of a trademark is:  any symbol, shape, text, color or aroma that indicates the source or origin of the goods or services to which it is affixed or associated. 



 



The ultimate purpose of a trademark is to protect consumers.  The function of a trademark is to inform the consumer where the goods or services originate.  The consumer, knowing the origin of the goods, can make purchasing decisions based on knowledge, reputation or marketing. 



 



In order for a trademark to be a trademark, it must be used as a trademark.  Many trademark problems arise from misuse (including non-use) of the trademark.



 

Jmes

If the ultimate purpose of the trademark is to protect consumers, what`s the manufacturer`s benefit from it?
Wouldn`t bad manufacturer`s be inclined to abuse this?
What would a small business owner gain from trademarking their products?
Jmes

patentandtrademark

trademark users benefit from customer loyalty, reputation and good will - over time.