Because of its vast creative out-put and international clientele, Propagandist is an active user of the intellectual property (IP) system. “IP is critical to the success of our business. It helps protect the very heart of our business – our designs and name”, said the company’s general director, Mr. Chuayboon.
In order to expand into the lucrative United States of America (USA) product-design market, in 1999 the company filed a trademark for Propaganda™ at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). In the same year, Propaganda was filed as a word mark in a stylized form at the USPTO.
Intending to exploit commercial opportunities in the European Union (EU) whilst securing its corporate name in the region, in 2000 the company filed a trademark for Propaganda as a figurative mark in 35 classes of the Nice classification list of goods and services at the Office for Harmonization in the Internal Market (OHIM).
Moreover, in 2004 Propagandist filed a trademark for “Mr. P” both as a figurative and a graphical representation at OHIM.
Commensurate to the company’s trademarks, Propagandist maintains five domain names (including www.useme.jp and www.propagandaonline.jp), further enhancing its IP assets, and keeping its avenues for future expansion clear.
As of 2010, the company was looking to grow its business in ten overseas markets including the People’s Republic of China (PRC), the EU, Japan and the USA. With trademark registrations in each of its intended markets, the company has paved the way for future expansion, whilst ensuring its customers of the products’ authenticity and quality.