To indicate a partnership, firms frequently add “& Co” to their names. A partnership is a type of business arrangement where two or more people share ownership and management of the enterprise. Partners can let clients and other stakeholders know that their company is jointly owned and managed by adding “& Co” to the business name.
To give a sense of tradition or history, companies may also add “& Co” to their names. For many long-standing companies, the “& Co” prefix has been a component of their corporate identification for many generations. Businesses can portray a sense of longevity and stability by employing “& Co,” which can reassure clients and investors. While including “& Co” in a company name can be an easy and efficient method to convey ownership and heritage, it is crucial to remember that it offers no legal protection. Companies must file trademark applications in order to protect their company names. Having a trademark gives you the sole right to use a certain name, logo, or design in connection with a good or service.
Can you trademark a name that is already in use but not registered? Yes, but it may also be expensive and complicated. Even if a company has been using a name without registering it as a trademark, they can still be permitted to do so. The procedure can be more difficult if another company has previously filed a trademark application for a name or logo that is similar. The process may call for legal aid, and it might be necessary to modify the company name or emblem.
Businesses must submit an application to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in order to register a trademark. Depending on the type of trademark and the filing process, an application can cost anywhere between $225 and $600 to submit. Businesses might also be required to pay for legal counsel or trademark searches in addition to the filing price.
There aren’t many choices available to people wishing to trademark a name for free. Businesses can submit their own online trademark applications through the USPTO’s Trademark Electronic Application System (TEAS). A detailed understanding of trademark law is necessary because trademark applications can be challenging. To secure a successful trademark registration, it could be a good idea to consult legal counsel.
Finally, including “& Co” before a company name might be a quick and clear method to convey ownership and heritage. It does not, however, offer legal protection. Companies must register for a trademark, which may be a difficult and expensive procedure, in order to protect a business name. It may be possible for businesses to register a trademark for a name that is already in use, but it can be difficult and may require legal counsel.
It can be difficult to choose a name for your company, but it’s crucial to pick one that’s meaningful, distinctive, and applicable to your sector. You might think about utilizing your own name, coming up with a name that accurately defines what you do, or choosing a name that embodies the principles or goals of your business. In the end, the name you select should be distinctive, simple to pronounce, and simple to remember. If you have partners or collaborators, you might also want to think about adding “& Co” to your company name because it can give your brand more professionalism and legitimacy.