Our Mission

The Library of Alexandria and Public Registers

Here at ‘First To Register,’ we believe that information and knowledge plays a crucial role in a developed society. The ancient Egyptians did, too - most notably evidenced by building the Library of Alexandria.

The Library of Alexandria was renowned for its vast collection of knowledge and was a hub for scholars in the ancient world. It acted as a centre of learning, led to advancements in astronomy, mathematics, geography and was a symbol of intellectual achievement.

Key principles of the library include:

1. Public access
2. Record-keeping; and
3. Knowledge.

The UK has replicated the Library of Alexandria’s principles in its formation of public registers. A UK citizen can check, amongst other things:

1. the ownership of a property via the Land Registry;
2. the status of a solicitor via the Solicitor Regulation Authority; and
3. the directors of a company via Companies House. 

These public registers foster, reinforce and uphold democracy in British society. This is because democracy is rooted in individual liberty, freedom and knowledge. Without accessing critical information, a citizen is less able to exercise his democratic rights as decisions will be less informed. 

The Intellectual Property Office (IPO)

The IPO’s trademark register is no different. 

The Trademark Registration Act 1875 introduced the ability for persons to register their trademarks on the public register. Absence of registration meant that no claims for trademark infringement could be brought against third parties.

Key benefits of the register include: 

1. Protection for the owner: goodwill built in the brand will only benefit the owner of the mark or his chosen licensees. 
2. Consumer protection for the public: consumers can trust that goods or services displaying a specific trademark are the goods or services of the owner of the trademark. 
3. Business planning: those looking to start a new business will be able to make an informed decision as to which business name to adopt, based on which have not been registered with the IPO. 

For the public and the business owner to benefit, only one action must be taken: the business owner must register their trademark. 

Consequences of not registering your trademark

At First To Register, we believe that not registering a trademark is an undemocratic, negligent and unethical omission for the following reasons:

1. Undemocratic: it goes against the wishes of the Trademark Registration Act 1875 and limits the public’s ability to make informed decisions. 
2. Negligent: the process for registering a trademark is fairly straightforward and affordable. From a cost vs benefit perspective, not registering a trademark and leaving your brand exposed is negligent. 
3. Unethical: not registering your trademark whilst expecting others not to use it is unethical. You cannot have your cake and eat it, too. 

We founded the business with the intention to reach out to businesses in the UK to inform them of their unregistered trademarks and offer to register it for them. You may have received an email from malcolm@firsttoregister.co.uk or malcolm@firsttoregister.com.