palvelumerkki

A palvelumerkki, translated as service mark, is a type of trademark used in Finland. Similar to a standard trademark, it is used to identify and distinguish the services of one party from those of others. While trademarks typically apply to goods, a palvelumerkki specifically relates to services. For example, a company offering consulting services might use a palvelumerkki to identify its distinct consulting offerings, differentiating them from competitors.

The registration and protection of a palvelumerkki follow similar procedures to those for trademarks in Finland. Registration grants the owner exclusive rights to use the mark in connection with the specified services and to prevent others from using identical or similar marks for related services. This protection helps consumers identify the source of services and ensures fair competition within the market. The Finnish Patent and Registration Office (PRH) is responsible for the registration of both trademarks and palvelumerkki. The legal framework governing these marks is designed to foster a robust service economy by providing clear ownership and preventing confusion among service providers and consumers.