- What are the Rutgers trademarks?
- Why do I need to be concerned with Rutgers’ trademarks when buying T-shirts, mugs, and other promotional items?
- Why is liability a concern when distributing promotional items and giveaways?
- How does licensing a vendor benefit the university?
- I have been using a non-licensed vendor for several years. Why should I stop?
- What if I can't find a licensed vendor offering an item I want to buy?
- What is a trademark?
- Why do the symbols ® and TM sometimes appear on products with the Rutgers name or logos?
- Can I use the Official Rutgers seal for my promotion?
- Where can I find ideas for promotions?
- Will I save money on shipping by buying from a local vendor?
- Are prices on promotional items all-inclusive, or are there extra charges?
- Is the approval of artwork required when purchasing promotional items?
- Should alumni buy from a licensed vendor?
- How will choosing a licensed vendor benefit my department or organization?
- Can I use the university identity system marks on promotional products?
- Can I use the Spirit R on promotional products?
What are the Rutgers trademarks?
Rutgers’ trademarks include the name of the university, the intercollegiate athletics logos, and all other identifying marks of the university, encompassing everything from "Rutgers" and "Scarlet Knights" to the names of centers and schools.
Why do I need to be concerned with Rutgers’ trademarks when buying T-shirts, mugs, and other promotional items?
In order to protect the Rutgers name and avoid liability issues, all items with Rutgers’ trademarks, from a pen with the words "Go Rutgers" to a T-shirt with the name of a Rutgers student club, must be purchased from a company that is authorized to sell merchandise with the Rutgers name.
Why is liability a concern when distributing promotional items and giveaways?
In the event that a product with the Rutgers name or logos causes damage or injury, Rutgers could be held responsible. The trademark licensing agreement that is signed by licensed vendors helps to protect the university by transferring product liability back to the vendor. Moreover, licensed vendors are required to carry product liability insurance. Please review the list of prohibited items and designs before choosing a product for your promotion.
How does licensing a vendor benefit the university?
In addition to protecting the university from product liability, the use of licensed vendors helps to ensure that the Rutgers name is not used improperly, or on unsafe products, such as knives and flammable items. Furthermore, licensed vendors are required to join the Fair Labor Association, which monitors overseas factories.
I have been using a non-licensed vendor for several years. Why should I stop?
Besides protecting the university from liability, a licensed vendor has access to Rutgers' official logos, including intercollegiate athletics logos, and will likely offer you a discount. Licensed vendors offer better customer service and are accustomed to working with Rutgers departments and student groups. For more details about why you should use a licensed vendor, please see our list of the top 10 reasons.
What if I can't find a licensed vendor offering an item I want to buy?
The Office of Trademark Licensing will help you find an appropriate vendor. Please contact us via email for assistance.
What is a trademark?
A trademark is a word, phrase, symbol, or design (or a combination of those) that identifies or distinguishes the source of goods of one party from those of others. A trademark serves to communicate to the consumer the unique source of specific goods or services.
Why do the symbols ® and TM sometimes appear on products with the Rutgers name or logos?
Organizations insert these symbols to signify their ownership of the trademark. The TM symbol indicates that the word, symbol, or design it is placed next to is a trademark. The ® symbol indicates that the trademark is federally registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. These symbols signal the university's ownership of its trademarks and assist the university in its trademark enforcement efforts.
Can I use the Official Rutgers seal for my promotion?
No. The university seal is typically used for official documents, such as diplomas and letters of introduction. Permission is required to use the seal on any product. However, the university has an informal seal that may be used on promotional products. Contact the Office of Trademark Licensing via email for more information.
Where can I find ideas for promotions?
If you're looking for ideas, please visit our Idea Generator to brainstorm about the possibilities.
Will I save money on shipping by buying from a local vendor?
Not necessarily. Even if the company is located nearby, items may be shipped from other locations. But in the case of T-shirts and other apparel, you will likely save on shipping if you decide to pick up your order on your own.
Are prices on promotional items all-inclusive, or are there extra charges?
Practices vary among companies. When researching pricing, you should ask whether the price is all-inclusive or whether additional charges, such as shipping and set-up fees, will apply.
Is the approval of artwork required when purchasing promotional items?
Yes. The vendor is responsible for submitting artwork to The Office of Trademark Licensing for approval.
Should alumni buy from a licensed vendor?
Yes. Anyone purchasing promotional items with the Rutgers name should buy from a licensed vendor.
How will choosing a licensed vendor benefit my department or organization?
Licensed vendors are accustomed to working with the university community. They are familiar with our trademark licensing requirements, as well as our logos and artwork. They are also more likely to offer you a discount when buying promotional items and giveaways.
Can I use the university identity system marks on promotional products?
Yes, but please contact the Office of Trademark Licensing via email for guidance on the proper use and placement of the marks.
Can I use the Spirit R on promotional products?
Only intercollegiate athletics, student organizations and sports clubs, and the alumni association may use the Spirit R on promotional products. The Spirit R may not be altered in any way and it may only be reproduced in red or white. The Spirit R may not be reproduced in black or any other color other than red or white.