Ühendkaubamärk

Ühendkaubamärk, also known as a collective mark or association mark, is a type of trademark used by a group of entities, such as a cooperative, an association, or a local government, to distinguish their goods or services from those of others. It signifies that the goods or services bearing the mark meet certain standards or originate from a particular geographic region or belong to members of a specific organization. Unlike a certification mark, which certifies the quality or origin of goods or services by a third party, a collective mark is used by the members of the collective itself.

The purpose of an ühendkaubamärk is to promote the collective interests of its members, enhance consumer trust, and build brand recognition for a group. For example, a regional association of cheese producers might use a collective mark to identify cheese made according to traditional methods within that region. Consumers recognize the mark as a guarantee of authenticity and quality associated with the group's standards. Registration of an ühendkaubamärk typically requires outlining the specific conditions under which the mark may be used by members and the entity responsible for enforcing those conditions. The owner of the collective mark usually controls the use of the mark by its members, ensuring compliance with established criteria. This helps to maintain the integrity and reputation of the mark.