How to protect your brand before expanding into new markets?

Expanding a brand into new markets is a key step for business growth and consolidation. However, this expansion must be strategically planned, considering not only commercial potential but also the legal protection of the brand.

Unregistered brands or brands with poorly structured contracts can face serious risks, such as unfair competition, product copying, misuse of the brand name, or even lawsuits that compromise the company’s reputation.

Key legal considerations for brand expansion

1. Trademark Registration: Ensuring brand protection both in Brazil and internationally is essential to prevent conflicts with third parties and protect brand identity.
   

2. Intellectual Property: Patents, designs, copyrights, and brand aesthetics should be monitored to prevent copying and infringement.
   

3. Strategic Contracts: Partnerships, licensing, and supply agreements must include clear clauses regarding responsibilities, exclusivity, and rights over creations and products.
   

4. Compliance and Local Regulations: Each market has specific rules, including taxation, consumer protection, and commercial practices. Understanding them prevents penalties and future legal issues.

Having specialized legal advice in Fashion Law from the beginning of the expansion process allows a brand to grow in a structured manner, with legal certainty and strategic foresight, ensuring that every step is legally backed and aligned with best practices in the industry.