Protecting Hotel & Restaurant Brands: Trademark Strategies for the Hospitality Industry

In the highly competitive hospitality industry, brand identity is one of the most valuable assets a business can own. Hotels and restaurants rely heavily on their trademarks, logos, and distinctive branding to attract customers and establish trust. But as the market evolves, protecting these valuable assets becomes increasingly complex. This course is designed to help attorneys understand the intricacies of trademark law as it applies specifically to the hospitality sector.

The presentation will cover the legal framework governing trademarks, including the Lanham Act, and delve into practical strategies for protecting, enforcing, and managing hotel and restaurant brands. Attendees will learn how to guide clients through trademark registration, monitoring, and potential litigation, as well as how to address common issues such as social media marketing and international protections.

Learning Objectives:

1. Explain the trademark registration process specific to the hospitality industry under the Lanham Act
2. Identify key strategies for protecting hotel and restaurant trademarks, logos, and slogans
3. Advise clients on managing and enforcing their trademarks, including handling infringement disputes
4. Apply legal best practices to monitor and protect brands in online and social media contexts
5. Analyze the complexities of securing international trademark protection for expanding hospitality businesses