Top Benefits of Trademark Registration for Cutlery Businesses (Class 8 Guide)
In the competitive world of kitchenware and table essentials, a well-crafted cutlery brand is more than just the metal—it’s the trust your customers place in the name. Whether you sell stainless steel utensils, luxury cutlery gift sets, or innovative everyday knives, your brand is your biggest asset. But with growing competition and the rise of lookalike brands, protecting your name legally is not just important—it’s essential. That’s where Trademark Class 8 registration steps in as a powerful tool for brand security.
In this blog, we’ll explore why cutlery businesses must trademark their brand under Class 8, what this class covers, the long-term benefits, and how to do it step-by-step. By the end, you’ll know exactly how trademarking can protect and grow your business.
What is Trademark Class 8?
The Indian Trademark Registry follows the Nice Classification System, which includes 45 different classes. Each class defines a category of goods or services. Class 8 specifically deals with:
Hand tools and implements (hand-operated); cutlery; side arms; razors.
If your business manufactures, distributes, or sells the following types of products, you fall under Class 8:
- Kitchen knives
- Forks and spoons
- Butter knives and carving knives
- Scissors and shears
- Razors and blades
- Hand-operated tools for chefs or kitchens
- Manicure/pedicure sets
- Multi-tools and pocket knives
- Vegetable peelers and bottle openers
Any business selling products like these must file their trademark under Class 8 for accurate legal protection.
Why Trademarking Your Cutlery Brand is Crucial
If you’re still selling cutlery without a trademark, you’re leaving your business vulnerable. Here’s why trademarking your brand name or logo is essential:
1. Brand Identity Protection
Your name, logo, or slogan distinguishes your product from competitors. A registered trademark gives you exclusive rights to use that identity in commerce and take action against any brand that tries to copy you.
2. Prevents Duplication and Copycats
Many businesses have seen their product names copied by cheaper manufacturers. If your brand isn’t trademarked, they may get away with it legally. A registered trademark lets you stop infringement swiftly.
3. Gives You Legal Ownership
Without a trademark, someone else can register a similar brand and even prevent you from using it. Filing first ensures you own the rights, and no one can claim it before you.
4. Boosts Customer Trust
Customers are more likely to trust brands that look professional and secure. Using a ™ or ® symbol shows you’re a serious brand that’s legally protected, improving credibility.
5. Makes Expansion Easier
Planning to sell on eCommerce platforms like Amazon or Flipkart? Or want to export to the US or EU? You’ll need a registered trademark to access brand protections and file in foreign countries.
Benefits of Registering Under Class 8 for Cutlery Businesses
Let’s look at how this benefits you in practice:
✔ Legal Protection for Your Product Category
If your knives, forks, and spoons fall under Class 8, registering here means you’re fully protected within this industry. Others making similar products can’t legally use a confusingly similar name.
✔ Broader Product Line Coverage
Class 8 doesn’t just cover cutlery. If you expand into grooming tools, scissors, razors, or even certain hand tools, they’ll also be protected under the same class—no need to register again in a different category.
✔ Helps You Stop Counterfeiters Online
Platforms like Amazon allow you to report fake sellers or counterfeit listings—only if you have a registered trademark. Many brands find this protection invaluable in today’s digital market.
✔ Brand Equity Building
Your trademark becomes an intellectual property asset. Over time, as your brand grows, it becomes a business asset that can be licensed, franchised, or sold.
Step-by-Step Guide to Trademark Registration Under Class 8
Step 1: Conduct a Trademark Search
Before you file, check if your brand name or logo is already registered or applied for by someone else in Class 8. You can use the IP India portal or take professional help for this.
Step 2: Finalize Your Trademark Details
Decide exactly what you want to protect—your brand name, logo, tagline, or label. You can file separate applications or a combined one depending on what’s needed.
Step 3: Prepare the Application
You’ll need the following documents:
- Applicant details (name, type of business)
- Address proof
- Brand name/logo/artwork
- Power of Attorney if a consultant is filing on your behalf
- Udyam/MSME Certificate if you’re a small business (to claim discounted fee)
Step 4: File Trademark Form TM-A
This is the official form for filing a trademark application. You can file it:
- Online at ipindia.gov.in
- Offline at the regional trademark offices
Step 5: Examination by the Trademark Registry
Once submitted, the examiner will review it and may raise an Examination Report with objections (if any). These need to be replied to with proper legal justifications.
Step 6: Journal Publication
If accepted, the trademark is published in the Trademark Journal for 4 months. During this time, any third party can oppose it.
Step 7: Registration Certificate Issued
If no opposition is raised, or if you win an opposition case, your mark is officially registered, and you receive your certificate.
How Much Does Class 8 Trademark Registration Cost?
Government Fees (per class per mark):
- ₹4,500 for Individual, Startup, or MSME
- ₹9,000 for Company or LLP
Professional Fees:
This varies based on the agent or firm. On average, it ranges from ₹2,000 to ₹8,000 depending on service quality and the complexity of the case.
So the total cost for one mark under Class 8 is usually between ₹6,500 to ₹17,000.
How Long Does It Take?
Here’s the estimated timeline:
| Step | Time Taken |
| Filing to Examination | 1 – 3 months |
| Objection Reply (if any) | 1 – 2 months |
| Journal Publication | 4 months |
| Registration (if no opposition) | 6 – 12 months |
The full process can take 8 to 18 months, depending on objections, opposition, and examination speed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Filing under the wrong class (e.g., Class 21 for kitchen utensils instead of Class 8)
- Using common names like “Cutlery King” that may face rejection for being generic
- Skipping a proper trademark search
- Thinking the ™ symbol gives protection (only ® after registration is fully legal)
Trademark Validity and Renewal
Once registered, your trademark is valid for 10 years, after which it must be renewed for another 10 years. You can renew it indefinitely, keeping your brand protected forever.
What if You Sell Internationally?
If your cutlery brand is exported or you plan to sell in countries like the US, UK, or Australia, you can file for international protection under the Madrid Protocol, using your Indian registration as a base.
Real-Life Scenario
Let’s say you have a stainless steel brand called “SilverSlice Cutlery”. You’ve built it for 2 years and now see a new company online called “SilverSlicer” selling knock-offs of your design. If you don’t have a registered trademark, your legal options are limited.
However, if you had a Class 8 trademark, you could:
- Send a cease-and-desist
- Remove their listings from Amazon
- Get court injunctions
- License your brand safely
All this power comes from just one legal step—filing your trademark.
Final Thoughts
If you own a cutlery brand, whether you’re just starting or already selling nationwide, trademark registration under Class 8 is the foundation of your brand’s legal identity. It protects your name, keeps your products safe from copycats, and adds long-term value to your business.
The investment is small compared to the peace of mind and protection it brings.
Secure Your Cutlery Brand with VMK Professionals
At VMK Professionals, we help cutlery businesses, manufacturers, and tool brands register their trademarks under the correct classes, including Class 8. Our experienced team provides complete assistance—from trademark search and filing to examination replies and opposition handling. Whether you’re an MSME or an established brand, we make the trademark process smooth, affordable, and legally sound.
Let us help you protect what you’ve built.
✅ Expert Guidance
✅ Quick Turnaround
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✅ Pan India Services
📞 Contact VMK Professionals today and safeguard your cutlery brand with confidence.