What do trademarks primarily protect?

Trademarks primarily protect goods and services by allowing businesses to distinguish their products from those of others in the marketplace. This protection helps consumers identify the source of a product or service and ensures that they can make informed choices based on familiarity and trust. Trademark law prevents others from using the same or similar marks in a way that could cause confusion among consumers.

In contrast to other forms of intellectual property, such as copyright, which protects original expressions in literature and music, or patent rights that cover inventions and designs, trademarks are specifically aimed at the branding aspect of commercial activities. This means that trademarks safeguard names, logos, slogans, and other identifiers that communicate the source of a good or service to the public. As a result, the primary function of trademarks is to promote fair competition, protect consumer interests, and uphold the integrity of brands in the marketplace.