What trademark class is a publisher in?

Most publishers register in classes 41 and 16. Class 41 covers education & entertainment; Class 16 covers paper & stationery. You only ever register the classes that match what you actually sell.

Do publishers need to register in more than one class?

Often, yes. A trademark is only protected in the classes you register, and you pay a fee for each one. Many publishers file in classes 41 and 16 together, then add others as the business grows.

How much does it cost a publisher to register a trademark?

Filing direct with the UK IPO costs £205 for the first class and £60 for each additional class, so a publisher covering classes 41 and 16 pays about £265. The fee isn't refunded if your mark is refused — which is why checking the name is free first matters.

Trademark classes · By business type

Which trademark classes does a publisher need?

Most publishers register in class 41 (Education & entertainment) and class 16 (Paper & stationery).

Publishing is split across two classes: the service of editing and bringing a book to market, and the printed book itself as a physical product. Digital editions and audiobooks add the electronics class.

Last reviewed June 2026

Before you file in class 41, make sure the name is free. If it's already taken, your application can be refused — and the £205 IPO fee isn't refunded. Checking takes seconds and costs nothing.

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The classes publishers usually register in

Also worth considering

Depending on how far your range extends, you may also want:

Class9Electronics & softwareE-books and audiobooks: downloadable and recorded editions are goods in the electronics class.

Related business types

Frequently asked questions

What trademark class is a publisher in?: Most publishers register in classes 41 and 16. Class 41 covers education & entertainment; Class 16 covers paper & stationery. You only ever register the classes that match what you actually sell.
Do publishers need to register in more than one class?: Often, yes. A trademark is only protected in the classes you register, and you pay a fee for each one. Many publishers file in classes 41 and 16 together, then add others as the business grows.
How much does it cost a publisher to register a trademark?: Filing direct with the UK IPO costs £205 for the first class and £60 for each additional class, so a publisher covering classes 41 and 16 pays about £265. The fee isn't refunded if your mark is refused — which is why checking the name is free first matters. See the full cost breakdown.

Check your name before you file

A trademark only protects you in the classes you register — and only if the name's free to begin with. Search the UK and EU registers in seconds. Free, no sign-up.

Check your name free →

These are the classes publishers most commonly register, not a full legal specification — when you file, you list the exact goods or services you need. This is general information, not legal advice. See also our guide toregistering a UK trademark, orbrowse other business types.