When you build a restaurant, bar, coffee shop, or bed & breakfast, your focus is on great food, atmosphere, and service. But many small business owners overlook one critical step—trademark protection. Without a registered trademark, your brand name or logo could be copied, leading to customer confusion and costly disputes.

If you’re unsure where to start with protecting your restaurant or hospitality brand, don’t worry. With the right steps, you can secure your name, safeguard your reputation, and keep your business growing.

When your company files a patent application, you gain more than protection. You also establish a priority date and earn the right to use patent pending. Pending patents can deter competitors, attract investors, and signal that your business is serious about innovation.

If you’re building a startup or managing a small business, don’t overlook the value of pending patents. With the right IP strategy, you can boost valuation, strengthen negotiations, and lay the foundation for a strong intellectual property portfolio.

When you file a trademark application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), you may receive a trademark office action. One of the most common reasons for refusal is that your submitted specimen was rejected. In this case, the USPTO requires a substitute specimen to prove your mark is being used in commerce.

If you’ve received a USPTO specimen refusal, don’t worry. With the right approach, you can respond effectively and keep your trademark registration moving forward.