A recent headline-making incident involving the indie band Easy Life and the corporate giant easyGroup provides a striking example of why IP protection is essential. Let’s delve into this David vs. Goliath story and explore what it means for you and your business.

The Story of Easy Life

Easy Life, an indie band with a burgeoning following, found themselves in hot water when easyGroup accused them of infringing on their trade mark. The controversy erupted over claims that the band’s name, merchandise, and branding were riding on the coattails of easyGroup’s established reputation. The band’s tour poster, which featured an orange and white aircraft with the Easy Life logo, further fuelled the allegations.

The Legal Battle

EasyGroup, known for its fierce protection of its brand, didn’t take this lightly. They argued that Easy Life’s branding could mislead consumers into thinking the band was associated with the EasyGroup.

 The Pitfalls of Ignoring IP Protection

Consider the potential consequences of not protecting your business name adequately. Without proper protection, you risk facing legal disputes that can drain your resources, damage your reputation, and disrupt your operations. The Easy Life vs. easyGroup case is a stark reminder of these risks.

Solutions and Best Practices

However, the outlook isn’t all bleak. There are clear steps you can take to protect your business:

  1. Consult with an IP Specialist: Engaging with experts who understand the nuances of intellectual property can help you immensely, you can gain advice that can guide you strategically.  Understanding when you need to consider your business’ IP, when you must protect it and when you must review it, is so very important.
  2. Undertake thorough searches of your proposed name: Whether you intend to trade mark your name or not you need to ensure that your proposed business name is not already being used or is exclusively owned by another business.
  3. Register Your Business Name: Whether through a trade mark or our Business Name Protection service, ensure your name is legally protected. 
  4. Monitor and Enforce Your Rights: Regularly check for potential infringements and take action when necessary to defend your brand.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

In conclusion, protecting your intellectual property is not just a legal necessity but a strategic business move. Don’t wait until you’re faced with a legal challenge to take action. Learn from the Easy Life vs. easyGroup case and make IP protection a priority for your business.

Looking for IP or Trade Mark Protection for Your Brand?

If you wish to gain exclusive rights to your business name, logo, tag line or design within the UK or globally, National Business Register Group (NBR) has been assisting businesses with trademarks and brand protection since 1984. Contact NBR on Info@nbrg.co.uk or by calling 0800 069 9090.

Looking for Business Name Protection?

If you want more information about how to protect your business name in the UK without registering a trade mark, contact us at Start.Biz where we will be able to assist with business name protection. Start.Biz is a subsidiary of NBR, please email Info@Start.Biz or call 0800 069 9090.