National Trademark Expo offers educational brand of fun

Trademarks are everywhere, and although children will readily recognize their favorite characters, they may not know the importance that these mascots, cartoon characters, drawings, and illustrations play in a company’s branding and competitive edge. Each year the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) hosts a National Trademark Expo to show the general public why branding matters, and the importance of protecting a company’s brand and unique identifiers — in a fun, all-ages setting. This year’s event takes place July 27-28, 2018, at the National Museum of American History.

The two-day event illustrates the value of brand names and other marks in the increasingly competitive global marketplace. There are exhibitors, demos, and even activities for kids. Exhibitors this year include the National Park Service, DC Rollergirls, Segway, Microsoft, and more. See the full list online.

Exhibits at the 2014 Trademark Expo

The two-day expo “educates the public about the important role trademarks and other marks play in our society and the global marketplace.”  The educational and family-friendly event includes exhibitors, kids’ programs, costumed characters, seminars, and more.  Presentations include trademark basics and the importance of buying legitimate products. Find out more on the Trademark Expo website. The agency also has a special educational website for kids and teachers.