What is Greek Licensing and Why Does it Matter?

Welcome back to school! As the new year begins, you may be looking for ways to help your student organization, sports club, Sorority Shirt Designs or fraternity stand out and reach new members. Custom T-shirts and promotional products are a great way to show your spirit for your school or organization. Whether you are going to class, walking around campus, or visiting a local coffee shop, you can spread the word about your organization or group. Before you order these products, there are a few things you need to know about trademarks and Greek licensing requirements. What Are Trademarks and Licensing? Trademarks are symbols or words that belong to a brand and are legally protected. At Florida State University, words or phrases such as “Florida State University,” “Fear the Spear,” and “Unconquered” are trademarked. So are symbols such as the Seminole Head or the University seal. All Greek letters, names, mascots, or crests used by fraternities and sororities are also trademarked. Licensing programs are required for any vendor to print, produce, or sell trademarked items. Why Does Licensing Matter? Without a license, someone could misrepresent an organization and cause harm to those following the rules. Registered trademarks prevent people from misusing certain visual components of a brand, company, or school and creating unauthorized products. It also takes away money from the organization that may depend on the revenue generated from merchandise sales. Choosing to work with an unlicensed vendor is risky as it could result in lawsuits or expensive fees. Creating unlicensed merchandise is bad for everyone. The Solution: Work with a Licensed Vendor Want to avoid these possible pitfalls? Work with a licensed vendor! Licensed vendors allow you to create fun and unique products that you and your club or organization can be proud of — without the added stress of trying to understand all of the legal requirements. It also simplifies your ordering process because they are already familiar with approval processes and what you can or cannot order. Licensed collegiate vendors are also accustomed to working with Greek organizations because they are familiar with the approval processes and limitations for your school. They can also help you take your creative ideas and make them a reality. When you choose a licensed vendor, you can feel confident that your products will adhere to all of the Greek licensing standards. Do’s and Don’ts: What You Need to Know Before you place an order for custom promotional products or apparel for your organization or group, you need to understand the rules and requirements for your school. For example, for Florida State University, here are common do’s and don’ts you need to keep in mind: Do choose a licensed vendor. Do use the proper trademark designations and logos. Do not alter any of the trademarks or use them inappropriately in a design. Do not order any prohibited products such as those related to alcohol, firearms or tobacco. Do plan to allow time for required approvals. Most schools also require approval for every design and product by a licensing department. While the process may vary, Florida State University recommends beginning the approval process at least one month in advance. As you’re choosing a vendor and ordering your custom apparel or promotional products, make sure you and your vendor plan to ensure that your order arrives in time for your fundraiser or event. Full Press Apparel: Full-Service Greek and FSU-Licensed Solution The best way to make sure you’re following licensing and trademark regulations is to ask the experts. Based in Tallahassee, Full Press Apparel is a full-service Fraternity Shirt Designs and FSU-licensed vendor known for transforming creative ideas into reality. You can find samples of our work with Greek licensing and student organizations on our website and Instagram. Ready to get started? Contact us online, call 850–222–1003, or text 850–378–4313 to talk to our expert team. Source Url: https://fullpressapparel.com/what-is-greek-licensing-and-why-does-it-matter/