Trademarks are registered by class (45 total). Same name can exist in different classes. Registering "Delta" for airlines doesn't stop "Delta" faucets or "Delta" dental insurance. Choose all relevant classes or get partial protection.
Understanding the Class System
Nice Classification divides all goods/services into 45 classes. Classes 1-34: goods (physical products). Classes 35-45: services.
Most Common Classes for UK Businesses
Here are the classes 80% of businesses use:
Class 35: Retail & Advertising
Covers retail stores, e-commerce, advertising services, business management. Most product-selling businesses need this.
Class 42: Technology & Software
Software development, SaaS platforms, IT services, website hosting, app development.
Class 43: Food & Hospitality
Restaurants, cafes, catering, hotels, food delivery services.
Class 25: Clothing
Apparel, footwear, headwear. Fashion brands need this.
Class 41: Education & Entertainment
Training services, courses, entertainment, publishing, events.
Critical Mistake: Cafe owner registers Class 43 (food services) but sells branded coffee beans. Needs Class 30 (coffee products) too. Competitor trademarks your name for packaged coffee. You can't stop them.
How Many Classes Do You Need?
Start with core business activity. Add classes if you sell products AND services, or plan expansion.
Examples by Business Type
Pure service business (consulting): 1 class. E-commerce (selling products online): 2 classes (Class 35 + product class). Restaurant selling branded sauces: 2 classes (Class 43 food service + Class 29/30 products). Software company offering training: 2 classes (Class 42 + Class 41).
Cost Per Class
First class: £170. Each additional class: +£50. Registering 3 classes: £270 total.
Should You Register Extra Classes "Just in Case"?
No. Register classes you're actively using or will use within 5 years. Trademarks can be challenged if not used. Wasteful to pay for unused classes.
Finding Your Class
Use UK IPO's class finder tool. Type your goods/services, it suggests classes.
Multiple Meanings Problem
"Apple" for computers (Class 9) vs "Apple" for fruit juice (Class 32). Both valid because different classes. Neither can stop the other.
When Classes Overlap
Software company might need Class 9 (downloadable software), Class 42 (SaaS/cloud services), and Class 41 (training). Related but distinct classes.
Geographic Expansion
UK trademark classes don't protect you internationally. Need EU trademark (EUIPO) or US trademark (USPTO) for those markets. Classes system is same worldwide (Nice Classification).