If I invent a product that will also include other companies product within it, can I use their logo or even product name on it?
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If I invent a product that will also include other companies product within it, can I use their logo or even product name on it?
Asked on May 30, 2014 under Business Law, Maryland
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
In a word--NO. Or, more accurately, not without their permission, which would likely involve some licensing fee or revenue sharing. To use any trademark or tradename of the other companies without permission would be to violate their trademark rights (they can control who, if anyone, can display their logo); possibly their copyright, too (if they also have copyright in the name or mark); and likely to engage in unfair competition (suggesting a partnership, link, sponsorship, etc. by the other company which does not exist). Doing one or more of these things could subject you to a judicial order requiring you to stop selling the offending product(s), destroy all existing inventory thereof, and make changes to your packaging, etc. for the future; and/or to a suit for damages (money).
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