What is a collective mark?

A collective mark is specifically designed to indicate membership in an organization rather than to identify the origin of goods from a particular manufacturer. This means it serves as a symbol or a brand that members of a specific collective, such as an association or cooperative, use to communicate their affiliation to consumers. For example, a collective mark might be used by members of a trade union or a professional association to signify that they adhere to certain standards or belong to a particular group.

In contrast, collective marks do not primarily focus on the product itself or its geographical origin, which distinguishes them from individual trademarks or geographical indications. While individual trademarks help consumers identify the source of goods or services from a particular producer, collective marks unite members under a shared identity rather than representing individual products. This can support efforts to promote the collective's values, standards, and services as a whole.