What is a Service Mark?
A service mark is a type of trademark used to identify a service rather than a product. It is used to signify the source of a service, rather than a physical product. A service mark is typically a word, phrase, symbol, or design that indicates the source of the service.
How is a Service Mark Different from a Trademark?
The primary difference between a service mark and a trademark is that a trademark is used to identify a product or good, while a service mark is used to identify a service. A service mark is also used to represent a company’s intangible assets, such as its reputation and goodwill.
Examples of Service Marks
Service marks are used in a variety of industries. Here are some common examples of service marks:
- McDonald’s “I’m Lovin’ It” slogan
- FedEx’s red and orange color scheme
- Apple’s “Genius Bar” service mark
- UPS’s “What Can Brown Do For You?” slogan
Registering a Service Mark
In order to protect a service mark, it must be registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The registration process requires the applicant to provide information about the service mark, such as its name, description, and date of first use. The registration process also requires the applicant to submit a specimen of the service mark, such as a logo or slogan. Once a service mark is registered, the registrant will receive a certificate of registration and will have the exclusive right to use the service mark in the U.S.
Conclusion
A service mark is a type of trademark used to identify a service rather than a product. It is used to signify the source of a service, rather than a physical product, and is typically a word, phrase, symbol, or design. Service marks can be registered with the USPTO to provide exclusive rights to the registrant. For more information, please refer to the following resources: