17/01/2026
A very common misconception among small businesses and startups:
*“My company name is registered, so my brand is protected.”*
Unfortunately, that’s not correct.
Company name registration (Companies House) and trademark protection are two completely different things.
It’s quite common for one small business to be forced to rebrand because another trader owns the trademark, even if both companies are legally registered.
This usually comes as a shock — often after money has been spent on logos, websites, packaging and marketing.
Key takeaway for founders:
👉 Company name ≠ trademark rights
👉 Domain name ≠ trademark rights
👉 Social media handle ≠ trademark rights
If you’re planning a launch or rebrand, it’s always safer to check first than fix later.
Nitin Agarwal
Chartered Trade Mark Attorney
Corpinal IP Limited
🌐 www.corpinalip.co.uk
📧 [email protected]