A trademark is not protected “for everything”. It is registered for specific goods or services under an international classification. A wrong choice may leave the business unprotected in its key field, or delay the application.
What is Nice classification?
An international system dividing all goods and services into 45 classes: 34 for goods and 11 for services. Israel uses it, as do most countries. For example, clothing is in one class, restaurant services in another and software in another.
How to choose
- By actual activity: what the business sells or provides today.
- By near-term plans: products or services planned in the coming years.
- By the market: fields where competitors might use a similar name.
Wording matters as much as the class
Within each class you list goods or services. Wording that is too broad and does not reflect real activity may draw objections and expose the mark to cancellation for non-use. Wording that is too narrow may leave gaps. The right balance depends on the business.
How much does it cost?
The Patent Office fee depends on the number of classes, so choose the classes that truly matter rather than adding classes “just in case”.
What if the business expands?
Classes cannot be added to an application already filed; a new application is filed for the new classes. So think ahead at the first filing. See also trademarks for a new business.
Where do you go from here?
A good trademark is chosen, checked and registered correctly from the start. At Paz Israel & Co. Law Office we support businesses, startups and entrepreneurs with availability searches, class selection, filing, responding to the examiner and oppositions, as well as registration abroad and enforcement against infringers. For more information see our trademark registration page, or contact us to schedule a meeting in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem or Modi’in.
This article provides general information, is correct as of the time of writing, and does not constitute legal advice or a substitute for reviewing your specific circumstances.