Polo Trademarks · Ralph Lauren vs L.A Group LTD (2024)

Intellectual Property

Ralph Lauren PoloandSouth African Poloare two different brands owned by two different companies and they are not affiliated with each other. The Ralph Lauren brand is an international brand by an American designer and the South African Polo brand is locally owned by L.A Group LTD.

Polo History

The Ralph Lauren’s logo is a world-famous trademark with a mounted polo player and horse but the mark has been registered in South Africa by L.A Group LTD which defeated an attempt by Ralph Lauren to reclaim the mark in 1977 under the old law which recognised only geographical rights. Most South African consumers are unaware of the difference between the two and believe that they are buying the famous Ralph Lauren Polo brand. The Ralph Lauren emblem faces towards the buttons of your shirt and the South African emblem face away.

“Ralph Lauren has always stood for providing quality products, creating worlds and inviting people to take part in our dream. We were the innovators of lifestyle advertisem*nts that tell a story and the first to create stores that encourage customers to participate in that lifestyle”

“POLO is proud of its origins and a rich history that has been created with the passion and dedication of staff and shareholders over the last 4 decades, to become a leading contributor to the South African fashion industry, with a strong and loyal following.”

Polo Trademarks · Ralph Lauren vs L.A Group LTD (1)
Polo Trademarks · Ralph Lauren vs L.A Group LTD (2)
See Also
Angus Cloud Is the New Face of Polo by Ralph Lauren Fragrance

As an intellectual property expert with a proven track record in the field, I'd like to shed light on the intricacies of the Ralph Lauren Polo trademark situation in South Africa and provide valuable insights into intellectual property and trademarks.

The Ralph Lauren Polo case in South Africa exemplifies the complexity of international trademark laws and the importance of understanding the nuances of intellectual property rights. Here are key concepts and insights related to the provided article:

  1. Intellectual Property (IP) and Trademarks:

    • Intellectual property encompasses creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names, and images used in commerce.
    • Trademarks are a specific form of intellectual property that protects distinctive signs, symbols, or logos used to identify and distinguish goods or services in the marketplace.

  2. Ralph Lauren Polo vs. South African Polo:

    • Ralph Lauren Polo and South African Polo are two distinct brands owned by separate companies, with no affiliation.
    • The Ralph Lauren Polo brand is an international brand created by an American designer, while South African Polo is locally owned by L.A Group LTD.

  3. Trademark Registration:

    • Trademarks need to be registered to obtain legal protection. The Ralph Lauren Polo logo, featuring a mounted polo player and horse, is a world-famous trademark.
    • In South Africa, L.A Group LTD successfully registered the Ralph Lauren Polo trademark, overcoming a legal challenge by Ralph Lauren in 1977. This victory was possible under the old law recognizing only geographical rights.

  4. Consumer Perception:

    • Many South African consumers may be unaware of the distinction between the two Polo brands and might mistakenly believe they are purchasing the famous Ralph Lauren Polo brand.
    • The orientation of the emblems on the shirts (Ralph Lauren's emblem faces towards the buttons, while the South African emblem faces away) serves as a visual differentiator.

  5. Quotes and Brand Identity:

    • The quotes from Ralph Lauren and South African Polo highlight the significance of brand identity and the narrative associated with each brand.
    • Ralph Lauren emphasizes providing quality products and creating a lifestyle, while South African Polo takes pride in its origins and rich history within the South African fashion industry.

  6. Importance of Intellectual Property Protection:

    • The article indirectly emphasizes the importance of intellectual property protection by showcasing the legal battle over the Ralph Lauren Polo trademark.
    • This underscores the need for businesses to safeguard their intellectual property through proper registration and legal measures.

In conclusion, the Ralph Lauren Polo case in South Africa underscores the critical role of intellectual property rights and trademark protection in the global market. It serves as a cautionary tale for businesses to navigate the complexities of international intellectual property laws to safeguard their brands and creations.

Polo Trademarks · Ralph Lauren vs L.A Group LTD (2024)
Top Articles
Why Rodan + Fields Is The Number One Premium Skincare Brand In The U S And Canada
These Types Of Jeans Can Make You Look Taller, Know How To Style Them
Freethought Hall Library catalog — Freedom From Religion Foundation
2023 MLB Draft tracker, results: Full list of all 614 picks, plus analysis of every first-round selection
Latest Posts
Pointers On Wearing Purple this Fall
Crick, Watson, and Franklin | DNA structure (article) | Khan Academy
Article information

Author: Margart Wisoky

Last Updated:

Views: 5755

Rating: 4.8 / 5 (78 voted)

Reviews: 85% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Margart Wisoky

Birthday: 1993-05-13

Address: 2113 Abernathy Knoll, New Tamerafurt, CT 66893-2169

Phone: +25815234346805

Job: Central Developer

Hobby: Machining, Pottery, Rafting, Cosplaying, Jogging, Taekwondo, Scouting

Introduction: My name is Margart Wisoky, I am a gorgeous, shiny, successful, beautiful, adventurous, excited, pleasant person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.