Woordmerk

A word mark refers, in trademark law, to a mark consisting solely of textual elements, without any graphic additions or stylisation. Such marks are registered in a standard typeface or in the typography selected by the applicant and are protected in respect of their verbal elements.

In the Netherlands and the Benelux, word marks are governed by the Benelux Trademark Act and the EU Trade Mark Regulation. This is significant because the proprietor thereby acquires exclusive rights to prevent the use of identical or similar signs in relation to identical or similar goods and services.

In practice, word marks are frequently used for company or product names. Law firms assist clients with applications filed at the Benelux Office for Intellectual Property (BOIP) or the EUIPO in order to avoid subsequent conflicts.