A common assumption among new founders: registering a company name at Companies House means the name is "protected." It isn't — not in the trademark sense, anyway.
Two Separate Registers
Companies House and the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO) are entirely separate systems. Registering your company name doesn't stop someone else from trademarking a similar brand name for their products or services.
Classes Matter More Than You'd Think
Trademarks are registered against specific classes of goods and services — choosing the right ones for what your business actually does is a key part of getting useful protection.
It's Not Instant
Between examination and the opposition period, trademark registration takes real time from application to being finalised — it's worth starting the process earlier than you might expect.
This article provides general information only and is not personalised intellectual property advice. For the full guide, see our Business Guide to UK Trademark Registration.