Ideally, yes. If you can, it’s best to trademark a name and logo as two separate registrations: a word mark for the name on its own, and a figurative mark for the logo. The word mark protects the name however it’s written, in any font or colour. The logo registration protects the design as a whole. If the budget only stretches to one, start with the part that carries the most value, usually the name. Each UK application has its own official fee, from £205 for one class, and when the logo is part of the plan, we can help with trademarking your logo as its own registration.
Why not trademark a name and logo in one registration?
Because a logo registration doesn’t automatically give you strong rights in the name inside it. The danger we see is a combined logo mark filed to keep costs down, sometimes sold with a “guarantee” because a logo is often easier to get accepted. If a competitor then uses your name in a different style, you may be arguing from a weaker position than you expected.
Logos can carry real value too. Manchester United’s 2026 to 2027 third kit carries only the Snapdragon logo, with the sponsor’s name left off. It’s a good example of how recognisable a logo can become in its own right, and why a copied logo can hurt as much as a copied name, as the Anthropic v Abnormal AI dispute shows.
How do we decide what to protect first?
Clients often ask me whether to protect their name, their logo or both. First I want to understand where the value in the brand sits. Strip away the colours and font: would people still know you by name? Show them the logo alone: would they still know it was you? The answers shape the order. You can check the official fees for each route with our trademark cost calculator.
What does protecting both separately give you?
The broadest protection for the two things customers recognise, and the freedom to refresh your logo later without losing the rights in your name. If your name is descriptive and a logo is the realistic first step, I’ll tell you that plainly and explain what it will and won’t cover. If you’d like us to handle the filing, our UK trademark registration service covers a name, a logo or both, and starts with a clearance audit before any official fees are paid. You can book a free call, email enquiries@thetrademarkhelpline.com or ring 0161 833 5400.
Related questions
- Can I use a business name that isn’t trademarked?
- Can I just copyright my business name instead?
- Can someone steal my business name?
This answer is for information purposes only and does not constitute trademark advice or guidance. Last reviewed 25 September 2026. First shared as a LinkedIn post.
