The Role of Class Selection in Trademark Applications: Why Riya’s Trademark Failed, and What You Can Learn from It
July 4, 2025
Riya, a young entrepreneur from Kochi, launched her brand “NatureNest” to sell organic soaps. Excited by the early success of her product, she immediately applied for a trademark under Class 3 (which covers soaps and cosmetics). A few months later, she expanded into herbal teas and packaged snacks but soon found a competitor using the same “NatureNest” name for food products.
When she tried to stop them, she was told:
“You didn’t register your trademark under Class 30 (food items), so you don’t have exclusive rights there.”
Despite having built a loyal customer base, she now faced brand confusion, legal hurdles, and the costly process of rebranding or reapplying in other classes.
Why Is Class Selection So Important?
Riya’s story illustrates a common mistake: not understanding the scope of trademark protection. When you register a trademark, protection is only granted in the class(es) you apply for. If your brand extends beyond that and you haven’t covered it legally you’re vulnerable to copycats and legal disputes.
India follows the internationally accepted NICE Classification system, which divides goods and services into 45 classes (34 for goods, 11 for services). Each application must specify the relevant class based on your product or service.
Common Trademark Classes in India
Here’s a quick snapshot of popular classes and what they cover:
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Class 3 – Soaps, cosmetics, perfumes
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Class 5 – Pharmaceuticals, supplements
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Class 9 – Software, electronics, mobile apps
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Class 25 – Apparel and footwear
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Class 30 – Tea, snacks, and packaged food
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Class 35 – Retail, e-commerce, and marketing
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Class 41 – Education and entertainment
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Class 43 – Restaurants and food delivery
So, if you sell herbal soaps (Class 3) and organic tea (Class 30), you need to register your brand in both classes.
Common Mistakes
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Filing under just one class even when your business covers many areas
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Incorrect class due to misunderstanding your product/service
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Assuming once registered, you’re protected across all domains
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Ignoring future business expansions while applying
How to Select the Right Class
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List your current and future offerings clearly
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Check the NICE classification guide
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Think like your competitor where might brand conflict happen?
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Seek help from a registered trademark agent to avoid costly mistakes
Class Selection = Legal Strategy
Your trademark class isn’t just a category. It’s a line of defense in your brand strategy. Proper class coverage strengthens your position in disputes, licensing, and even funding rounds where investors look for IP strength.
A great brand deserves great protection. Just like Riya, many entrepreneurs learn the importance of class selection the hard way but you don’t have to.
Choose your classes wisely and let your brand grow safely.
Need guidance with selecting the right trademark classes?
Let IP Master help you register and protect your brand the right way.
Author: Siju Rajan
Registered Trademark agent
WhatsApp: +91 7012431293