The University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University have a long-standing rivalry that extends beyond the football field. One of the most enduring symbols of this rivalry is the color burnt orange, which is a distinctive shade of orange that is closely associated with the University of Texas. However, in a surprising twist, Texas A&M University actually owns the trademark for burnt orange. In this article, we will explore five ways that Texas A&M owns the burnt orange trademark.
What is Burnt Orange?
Before we dive into the ways that Texas A&M owns the burnt orange trademark, it's worth taking a step back to understand what burnt orange is and why it's so important to both universities. Burnt orange is a specific shade of orange that is darker and more muted than the traditional orange color. It's a unique and distinctive color that is closely associated with the University of Texas, but it's also used by other institutions and organizations.
1. Trademark Registration
The first way that Texas A&M owns the burnt orange trademark is through its registration with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). In 2017, Texas A&M filed an application to register the color burnt orange as a trademark for use in connection with university-related goods and services. The USPTO approved the application, and Texas A&M was granted a trademark registration for the color burnt orange.
What Does This Mean?
The registration of the burnt orange trademark gives Texas A&M the exclusive right to use the color in connection with its goods and services. This means that the university can prevent others from using the color in a way that is likely to confuse consumers or dilute the distinctiveness of the mark.
2. Licensing Agreements
The second way that Texas A&M owns the burnt orange trademark is through licensing agreements. The university has entered into licensing agreements with other institutions and organizations that allow them to use the color burnt orange in exchange for royalties. These agreements ensure that Texas A&M retains control over the use of the color and can prevent others from using it in a way that is inconsistent with its brand.
How Does This Work?
When another institution or organization wants to use the color burnt orange, they must first obtain a license from Texas A&M. The license agreement will typically specify the terms and conditions of use, including the types of products or services that can be sold using the color and the amount of royalties that must be paid.
3. Brand Identity
The third way that Texas A&M owns the burnt orange trademark is through its brand identity. The university has invested significant time and resources into developing a strong brand identity that is closely associated with the color burnt orange. This includes the use of the color in its logos, marketing materials, and athletic uniforms.
Why is This Important?
The use of the color burnt orange is an important part of Texas A&M's brand identity, and it helps to distinguish the university from other institutions. By consistently using the color in its branding and marketing efforts, Texas A&M is able to create a strong and recognizable brand that is closely associated with the values and traditions of the university.
4. Merchandising
The fourth way that Texas A&M owns the burnt orange trademark is through merchandising. The university sells a wide range of merchandise that features the color burnt orange, including t-shirts, hats, and other apparel items. This helps to promote the university's brand and create a sense of school spirit among students, alumni, and fans.
What Types of Merchandise?
Texas A&M sells a variety of merchandise that features the color burnt orange, including:
- Apparel items such as t-shirts, hats, and sweatshirts
- Accessories such as scarves, belts, and bags
- Home decor items such as blankets, pillows, and wall art
5. Enforcing Trademark Rights
The fifth and final way that Texas A&M owns the burnt orange trademark is through the enforcement of its trademark rights. The university takes steps to prevent others from using the color in a way that is likely to confuse consumers or dilute the distinctiveness of the mark.
How Does This Work?
When Texas A&M becomes aware of another institution or organization using the color burnt orange in a way that infringes on its trademark rights, it will typically send a cease and desist letter demanding that the infringing party stop using the color. If the infringing party refuses to comply, Texas A&M may file a lawsuit to enforce its trademark rights.
Gallery of Texas A&M University
What is the burnt orange trademark?
+The burnt orange trademark is a registered trademark owned by Texas A&M University. It is a specific shade of orange that is closely associated with the university.
Why is the burnt orange trademark important?
+The burnt orange trademark is important because it helps to distinguish Texas A&M University from other institutions and creates a strong brand identity.
How does Texas A&M enforce its trademark rights?
+Texas A&M enforces its trademark rights by sending cease and desist letters to parties that infringe on its trademark and filing lawsuits when necessary.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the ways that Texas A&M owns the burnt orange trademark. Whether you're a student, alumni, or simply a fan of the university, it's clear that the burnt orange trademark is an important part of Texas A&M's brand identity. We encourage you to share your thoughts and opinions on the importance of the burnt orange trademark in the comments below.