In a recent move by the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) Canadian businesses can now trademark their audio brand assets. This will allow brands to legally protect their audio identity including audio logos, sound IDs and potentially distinctive voices. It puts Canada closer to what has been the norm in many other countries and shows that as a country we are serious about copyright and trademark protection.
One company that will be extremely happy with the decision is Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios (MGM). They have been battling their right to trademark their lion roar for nearly 20 years. Now they can enforce protecting their identity will greater force. We’re sure that others will be quick to apply for trademark protection as well.
As audio brand consultants we feel this is a great step in helping businesses see the value of having an audio brand. It truly means that businesses can have sound assets that will grow with them.