A company name is not the same as a trade mark
Company registration and trade mark registration are separate systems. A name can be available at Companies House and still create brand risk.
21 August 2026 · 5 min readWhat Companies House checks
Companies House applies company naming rules and compares proposed names with names already on its register. Its acceptance creates the legal entity under that name.
What a trade mark protects
A registered trade mark can protect a sign for specified goods and services. UKIPO examines the application and earlier rights holders can oppose during publication.
Search before committing
Check the company register, UK trade mark register, domain names and the wider market. Similarity is not limited to identical spelling.
Plan classes around the business
Trade mark scope depends on the goods and services specified. Drafting too narrowly can leave gaps, while unsupported breadth can create cost and challenge.
This article provides general information, not legal, tax or accounting advice. Requirements and fees can change; confirm the current position for your circumstances before acting.