Share This :For the first time in Canadian history, a court has clarified the meaning of the phrase “place of origin” as referenced in section 12(1)(b) of the Trademarks Act (the “Act”). Under this section, a trademark that clearly describes (or...
Share This :Your name is one of the most valuable assets your business owns. Exactly how valuable depends on the name itself. Great names are worth a lot more than mediocre or bad ones. Before I explain, I want to clarify what makes a name truly great. In very...
Share This :Trademarks in the form of acronyms i.e., consisting simply of letters of the alphabet are generally considered to possess a low level of inherent distinctiveness. As is firmly rooted in Canadian law, trademarks on the lower end of the distinctiveness...
Share This :Here we go, again. The Canadian Federal Court has yet again sent a strong message to cannabis retailers who (foolishly) try to piggyback on the fame and reputation of established Canadian brands. Over the years, we have seen a dramatic increase in...
Share This :Social media usage has increased dramatically amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. Businesses, from mom & pop stores to big-box retailers have increased social media usage as a means to connect with consumers and enhance sales. Generally speaking,...
Share This :Trademarks are territorial by nature. This means that protection is achieved and enforceable on a country-specific basis. For example, a Canadian trademark registration provides exclusivity in Canada, whereas a Jamaican trademark registration will do the...
