Should You Be Bothered About Protecting Your Slogans?

Most businesses are aware that logos and brand names are capable of protection as registered trade marks and even if not protected by registration can be protected in law if there is sufficient goodwill in the brand and it meets other specific criteria (the laws of passing off). However the protection of a registered trade mark and/or the laws of passing off can also extend to slogans and catch phrases as highlighted by a recently publicised incident.

The infamous "Am I Bovvered?" catchphrase is at the centre of a dispute between Catherine Tate and others and Christian Publishing and Outreach (CPO). The BBC reported that CPO has been using the phrase and Little Britain’s "Yeah, I know!" in a poster campaign aimed at young people without permission. Each poster features quotes from the Bible and the posters were according to the BBC being supplied to churches at £25 each by the organisation.