Ever grabbed a "Band-Aid" for a scrape, then hopped on an "escalator” while sipping hot coffee from a "thermos"? You're using terms that were once fiercely protected brand names, victims of a phenomenon called genericide. Genericide occurs when a brand name becomes so synonymous with the product category that it loses its legal protection and transforms into a generic term used for any similar product.
Suddenly, anyone can use their name, diluting their brand power and potentially threatening their market share.
Legal Protection Lost: 3 surprising words you probably use without realising they were once brand names:
* Thermos, now a generic term in the US.
* Cellophane: Originally trademarked by DuPont, now synonymous with any transparent film wrapping.
* Laundromat: Once a Westinghouse brand, now a standard name for, well, laundromats everywhere.
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Brand Names we use in everyday speech but that are actually still protected trademarks (just don’t use them in conversation with litigious persons):
* Escalator: Though widely used, "escalator" is actually a protected trademark owned by Otis Elevator Company in some countries.
* Aspirin:
* While "aspirin" is a generic term in the US, Bayer still holds the trademark in other countries.
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* Jacuzzi: Similar to "escalator," "Jacuzzi" remains a protected trademark, although commonly used for any hot tub with air jets.
* Band-Aid: Johnson & Johnson actively enforces their "Band-Aid" trademark, even though it's often used for any adhesive bandage.
* Popsicle: Unilever continues to hold the trademark for "Popsicle," despite its generic use for ice pops.
* Walkie talkie: its actually a Brand of Motorola
So, how can you protect your brand from genericide? Here are some key steps:
1. Choose a Distinctive Name:
Opt for a unique and memorable name that isn't descriptive of the product or easily confused with existing terms.
Think "Coca-Cola" instead of "Soda Pop."
2. Police Your Brand: Actively monitor usage o..
