Can you trademark a nickname?

Chelsea star, Cole Palmer, has successfully trademarked the term ‘Cold Palmer’ with the Intellectual Property Office. He was given the nickname because he pretends to shiver when he scores a goal. 

The move has surprised some, with the suggestion that this could widen the boundaries of what can generally be regarded as trademarks. However, celebrities trademarking their nicknames, or symbols associated with them, is not new. Cristiano Ronaldo famously trademarked ‘CR7’, comprising his initials and the number of his jersey. 

What Is A Trademark?

A trademark is a form of intellectual property protection, that specifically protects distinctive signs such as brand names, logos, slogans, shapes, colours, and even sounds. 

When a trademark is registered, it gives owners exclusive rights to use their marks in connection with specific goods or services, helping to prevent confusion and safeguard brand reputation. 

Why Are Trademarks Protected?

If you think of any major company, such as McDonalds or Nike, they want to protect their brands from competitors, most specifically from other businesses pretending to be them, or associated with them, thus attempting to capitalise on their goodwill. McDonalds has trademarked its famous ‘golden arches’ so that third parties cannot use the mark without McDonalds’ consent. 

A company’s brand is its unique selling point. Where that selling point loses its uniqueness, the brand, and, potentially, its reputation, suffers. The same can be said about individuals with a brand, such as musicians, athletes or actors. 

It is understandable that someone in the public eye would want to prevent a term, solely associated with them, from being freely used by others for financial gain. Now that Cole Palmer has successfully trademarked ‘Cold Palmer’, no other individual or business can use the nickname without his consent. It gives him control over his brand and image. He has even gone a step further and trademarked his signature 'shivering' celebration where he crosses his arms and shivers after scoring. 

Has Your Trademark Been Infringed?

If someone else is using you registered trademark, we can help. If you would like to talk to someone about your intellectual property rights, or have been accused of using someone else's trademark, contact us to see how we can help.