Trademark Symbol: What It Means and Why Your Club Should Care

If you’ve ever seen a small "TM" or the circled "R" next to a club’s badge, you’ve spotted a trademark symbol. It’s not just a fancy decoration – it tells the world that the name, logo, or slogan is owned by someone and shouldn’t be copied.

In non‑league football, many teams think they’re too small to need legal protection. But the reality is that even grassroots clubs can face brand theft, counterfeit merch, or unauthorised use of their crest. A simple trademark symbol can act as a warning and a legal shield.

When to Use ™ vs. ®

The "™" symbol is for a trademark that’s not yet registered. You can slap it on your logo as soon as you start using it in commerce – like selling hats or tickets. It says, "We claim this as our brand, even if we haven’t filed paperwork yet."

The "®" symbol, on the other hand, means you’ve officially registered the trademark with the trademark office. Once you have the registration, you can use the circled "R" to show the public that the mark is legally protected. It also gives you stronger enforcement rights if someone copies you.

How to Get Your Club’s Trademark in Place

Start by checking if your club name and badge are already taken. A quick search on the UK Intellectual Property Office database can save you a lot of headaches. If the name is clear, file a trademark application – you’ll need a clear image of your logo and a list of the goods or services you plan to offer.

While you wait for approval, add the "™" symbol to every piece of merch, website header, and social media profile. Once you receive the registration certificate, swap "™" for "®". Keep the registration up‑to‑date by filing renewals every ten years.

Don’t forget to use the symbols consistently. Inconsistent use can weaken your claim and make enforcement trickier. Place the symbol close to the mark, not hidden in the corner of a page.

Finally, educate your fans and volunteers. Explain that the symbols are there to protect the club’s identity, not to sound corporate. When supporters understand the purpose, they’re more likely to respect the branding and report misuse.

Bottom line: a tiny trademark symbol can make a big difference for a non‑league club. It signals ownership, deters copycats, and gives you legal tools if you need them. So add "™" today, register for "®" tomorrow, and keep your club’s identity safe for the next generation of fans.