B.A.F.F.L.E.D. Tops
Top 5 Ways to Protect Your Brand From Counterfeits
Counterfeits are in more markets these days than just handbags. Fakes are found in electronics, prescription drugs, and even illegal drugs. Just recently, a counterfeit Apple Store showed up in China.
"Being copied is the ransom of success." - Coco Chanel
1. Register your trademarks
We've gone over this one time and time again, so we won't belabor. But, click here for more details....oh, and here!
2. Record with customs
If you plan to have any business internationally, you must register with customs so they can partner with you on watchdogging your brand. You want to be sure your goods aren't legit where you can see them, and fakes where you can't.
3. Utilize the press and social media
These days, we have endless ways to keep your brand alive and well in commerce. With everything from Twitter to blogging, keeping your brand in the limelight, and letting people know what it looks like in its pure form, will help keep counterfeits at bay. You'll be distinguished from the fakes.
4. Make your products hard to copy
Everything from your name, logo, and products in the market should be unique. The more unique, the tougher to copy. Of course we all get inspiration from other sources, but keeping a clear line to define yourself is critical in protecting yourself. Don't let your brand turn into a fake of another.
5. Get the whole brand involved
Having written policies and procedures, even agreements for your employees to sign, is a great tip for monitoring your business. You have to make sure everything is secure on the inside before expecting those on the outside to respect your brand. Promote brand integrity to your business partners, employees, and clients to make sure you remain a serious contender.
Have any other tips you'd like to share? Let us know!
We hope these help!