handelsnavnet

Handelsnavnet, meaning “trade name” in Danish, is the public name under which a business conducts its activities and presents itself to customers. It may be identical to the legal, registered company name or a separate name used in marketing, signage, invoices, and branding.

Legal framework and registration: In Denmark, using a name different from the registered corporate name often requires registration as a handelsnavn with the relevant authorities. Registration helps establish the identity of the legal entity behind the trading name and reduces the potential for customer confusion. The name must be unique within the register and must not be misleading or offensive. It may appear on official documents, business listings, and communications.

Relation to branding and intellectual property: A handelsnavn is a business name, not a trademark. Registering a handelsnavn does not automatically grant exclusive rights to use the name. To secure exclusive branding rights, a company may register a trademark or brand alongside or separate from its handelsnavn.

Practical use and liability: Regardless of the name used in everyday trade, the legal entity behind the handelsnavn is responsible for taxes, contracts, and liabilities. If a business changes its name, it must update registrations, contracts, and notifications to partners and customers.

See also: Company name, Trade name, Corporate name, Trademark, Danish business registry.