BBC
The BBC trademark has been registered in the UK in Class 9 for recording and broadcasting apparatus since the Corporation's founding under Royal Charter in 1927. The mark covers an enormous range of goods from television equipment to recorded media and software applications.
UK IPO Record
Brand History & Trademark Analysis
Class 9 — Technology & Software
The BBC trademark has been registered in the UK in Class 9 for recording and broadcasting apparatus since the Corporation's founding under Royal Charter in 1927. The mark covers an enormous range of goods from television equipment to recorded media and software applications. The BBC's trademark portfolio is one of the largest held by any UK public body, and its licensing arm, BBC Studios, generates significant revenue from Class 9 goods worldwide.
The BBC's trademark portfolio is one of the largest held by any UK public body, and its licensing arm, BBC Studios, generates significant revenue from Class 9 goods worldwide.
Nice Class 9 covers technology & software. View all Class 9 trademarks and case studies →
Class 41 — Education & Entertainment
BBC is one of the strongest UK-facing Class 41 marks because it is deeply tied to broadcasting, education and cultural output. The name carries public trust, heritage and huge recognition. It gives the page instant authority and domestic relevance.
Nice Class 41 covers education & entertainment. View all Class 41 trademarks and case studies →
Historical Background
The British Broadcasting Company was formed on 18 October 1922 and became the non-commercial British Broadcasting Corporation by Royal Charter on 31 December 1926. The 1960s introduced the familiar italicised slanted boxes, which were modernised by Martin Lambie-Nairn using Gill Sans typeface, introduced on 4 October 1997. The BBC's trademark portfolio extends far beyond the abbreviation, covering programme titles, character names, and format rights across dozens of international jurisdictions.