Who owns the logo design or graphic once it is completed

So you have started your own business. Like many in the digital age, you went through all the necessary steps. You registered your business name and the domain name for your website. You hired a social media marketing company to set up your platforms. You have ordered stationary such as invoices, business cards and letterhead. What is one are the major things you should be certain of? Who owns the logo design or graphic once it is completed.

Most companies do not have art departments so they must go to a graphic design firm to help them develop their logo. This unique piece of art will be the universal identifier for your company wherever it appears. As your business grows the logo design will be synonymous with your company name and in some areas it may replace it like the Nike swoosh. So it is important that when you have the logo created the full ownership belongs to you. If you don’t, you may be in a world of trouble.

Who owns the logo design or graphic once it is completed

Most reputable logo design companies have it in their contract that once the logo is paid for it is owned by that business, some do not. If you stay with them as a client you may never know but should you try to leave them you will learn that you do not own your logo. You will also discover that you can acquire ownership but it will cost you. If you sign a contract to have a logo created make sure there is a stipulation of ownership. If you don’t raise the topic right then and there you could be facing a very expensive acquisition process later.