Formula One trademark row highlights legal sticking point

Post-it Notes maker 3M has officially opposed the use of a new logo by Formula One, citing its similarity to its own trademarked logo.

Learning about intellectual property (IP) and how to utilise it to your benefit or avoid falling foul of others’ is a crucial part of developing products, increasing sales and expanding overseas.

The pitfalls of IP were brought into focus again recently as Liberty Media, the company that bought Formula One in 2017, learned it could face a lawsuit after the launch of a new logo that bears a similarity to that of 3M, the Post-it Notes maker.

As 3M lodged a trademark application for its logo before Formula One did, it puts the sticky notes maker in pole position should legal action be required.

Learn everything you need to about IP

The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) is always trying to find new and creative ways to share the Intellectual Property (IP) message.

That’s why they created IP Basics – IP made easy, a series of IP-based animations. This suite of 12 short animations breaks IP down into bite-sized chunks that clearly explain the different rights and how they can benefit businesses.

So whether you’re new to IP or just brushing up on your skills, or wondering how to distinguish your trade marks from your copyright, this is the perfect place for you to start.

If you design your own unique products, registering your design is easy and can cost as little as £60. This will protect you against copying and will aid your sales. See this short sketch for an introduction.

If you like this, don’t forget to check out the rest of the videos on the IPO YouTube Channel.

Intellectual property post-EU

The government is providing ongoing updates on what effect there will be to intellectual property laws after the UK leaves the European Union.

Get the latest updates here >

Support to develop new ideas

Delve into the support on offer from Innovate UK, the Design Council, Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, Horizon 2020, the Patent Box and more.

Read on for all the information >

The value of IP – and seeking support

The story of Amersham-based Stateside Skates documents the progress of a once small Buckinghamshire trader that is now an internationally recognised company, largely thanks to protecting their intellectual property and turning to DIT for export support.

Read the full story to see how mastering IP can lead to business growth >

Contact our business support team

If you have any questions related to IP or any business support topic, get in touch with our team: 01494 927130 / BusinessSupport@bbf.uk.com.

Photo by chuttersnap on Unsplash

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