Trademark Class 27: Carpets, Rugs, Mats, and Floor Coverings

Trademark Class 27 primarily covers carpets, rugs, mats, and other floor coverings used in residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. Businesses dealing in textile-based and non-textile-based floor coverings must register their trademarks under this classification to secure exclusive rights and brand identity in the flooring industry.

Importance of Trademark Class 27

Floor coverings play a significant role in interior design, functionality, and aesthetics. With the market expanding due to real estate developments, growing demand for sustainable materials, and evolving consumer preferences, securing a trademark under Class 27 ensures ` against counterfeiting and infringement.

Goods Covered Under Class 27

Class 27 includes a variety of flooring solutions, categorized as follows:

1. Carpets

• Wall-to-wall carpets used in homes, offices, and hotels.
• Handmade and machine-made carpets featuring unique designs.
• Woven, tufted, and knotted carpets for different aesthetics and durability.
• Persian, Oriental, and Kilim carpets, which are culturally significant and high-value.
• Synthetic fiber carpets, including polypropylene and polyester varieties.

2. Rugs

• Area rugs used for decorative purposes in homes and offices.
• Shaggy rugs made of wool, synthetic fibers, or blended materials.
• Braided and woven rugs providing durability and texture.
• Outdoor rugs designed for patios, decks, and gardens.
• Custom-designed rugs for corporate branding and high-end interior decoration.

3. Mats

• Door mats made from coir, rubber, and synthetic materials.
• Anti-fatigue mats used in workplaces to reduce strain on workers.
• Yoga and exercise mats used in fitness and wellness industries.
• Car mats for vehicles, available in rubber, PVC, or fabric variants.
• Bath mats providing slip resistance in wet areas.

4. Artificial Grass & Turf

• Synthetic turf for sports fields and landscaping.
• Decorative artificial grass mats for balconies and gardens.
• Golf putting greens and training mats.

5. Vinyl, Linoleum, and Rubber Floor Coverings

• Vinyl flooring for residential and commercial spaces.
• Linoleum sheets and tiles, known for eco-friendliness and durability.
• Rubber flooring used in gyms, playgrounds, and hospitals.
• PVC-based floor mats and coverings for industrial applications.

6. Wall Hangings & Textile-Based Floor Coverings

• Tapestries used as wall décor with textile artistry.
• Textile-based wall coverings offering insulation and aesthetics.

Exclusions from Class 27

Certain products that may seem related do not fall under Class 27, such as:

• Building materials and non-textile floor tiles (Class 19).
• Cleaning products for floor coverings (Class 3).
• Floor installation services (Class 37).

Market Trends and Industry Insights

Global Market Overview

• The global carpet and flooring market was valued at approximately $350 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.2% from 2025 to 2030.
• North America and Europe lead the demand due to luxury interior trends, while Asia-Pacific is emerging as a strong market due to real estate expansion.
• E-commerce sales of rugs, carpets, and mats increased by 23% in 2023, indicating a shift in consumer purchasing behavior.
• Customization and branding in rugs and carpets are becoming significant selling points.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Innovations

• The demand for eco-friendly carpets made from recycled plastic and organic fibers is increasing.
• Biodegradable flooring materials are gaining traction among environmentally conscious consumers.
• Low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) carpets are now preferred in commercial and residential projects to improve indoor air quality.

Technological Advancements

• Smart carpets with embedded sensors are being developed for health monitoring and security purposes.
• 3D printing technology is revolutionizing custom flooring solutions.
• Stain-resistant and self-cleaning carpets are being introduced in the market.

Leading Brands and Companies in Class 27

Several global brands dominate the floor covering industry, each with trademarked products under Class 27:

• Mohawk Industries – One of the largest flooring manufacturers, specializing in carpets and rugs.
• Shaw Industries – A leader in sustainable and high-performance flooring solutions.
• Interface – Known for its modular carpet tiles and environmentally sustainable designs.
• Tarkett – A prominent player in vinyl, linoleum, and sports flooring.
• Milliken & Company – Specializes in high-tech textile flooring solutions.

Trademark Registration Process for Class 27

Step 1: Conduct a Trademark Search

Before applying, conduct a trademark search to check for similar existing marks. This reduces the chances of rejection due to conflicts.

Step 2: Filing the Application

Submit a trademark application with details such as brand name, logo, and product category under Class 27 to the Trademark Office.

Step 3: Examination and Publication

The trademark undergoes a review process to ensure compliance with trademark laws. If deemed acceptable, it is published in the Trademark Journal for public opposition.

Step 4: Opposition Period

Third parties have an opportunity to oppose the trademark registration if they believe it conflicts with their existing trademarks.

Step 5: Approval and Registration

If no objections arise during the opposition period, the trademark is officially registered for 10 years, with the option for indefinite renewals.

Step 6: Renewal and Enforcement

Trademark owners must renew their registration before expiration and can take legal action against infringements and counterfeits.

Case Study: Trademark Dispute in Class 27

Case: Luxury Rugs Inc. vs. Designer Floor Co.

In 2023, Luxury Rugs Inc., a high-end rug manufacturer, sued Designer Floor Co. for selling imitation Persian rugs under a similar brand name. Since Luxury Rugs Inc. had a registered trademark under Class 27, they successfully won the case, forcing the competitor to cease production and pay damages.

This case highlights the importance of trademark registration in protecting brand identity and market exclusivity.

In 2022, Heritage Rugs, a well-known luxury carpet brand, filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against a smaller competitor, Elite Carpets Co., for copying its signature Persian-style rug designs. Heritage Rugs had secured trademark protection under Class 27, covering unique woven patterns and design trademarks for their premium hand-knotted carpets.

Legal Battle:
Heritage Rugs argued that Elite Carpets was selling identical rug patterns with minor modifications, misleading customers and damaging the brand’s reputation. The case was presented with evidence of consumer confusion, customer complaints, and product comparisons showing near-identical designs.

Outcome:
After an extensive review, the Trademark Tribunal ruled in favor of Heritage Rugs, citing their exclusive trademark rights under Class 27. Elite Carpets was ordered to halt production and sales of the copied designs, pay damages, and issue a public notice clarifying their infringement.

Key Takeaways:

• Trademarking unique carpet designs ensures protection against counterfeit products.
• Even pattern-based trademarks hold legal weight if properly registered.
• Businesses must conduct thorough trademark searches before launching new designs.

This case highlights the importance of trademark protection for flooring products, ensuring businesses retain their brand identity and market exclusivity in Class 27.

Conclusion

Trademark Class 27 is essential for businesses involved in carpets, rugs, mats, and floor coverings. With a growing market driven by real estate development, sustainability, and innovation, securing a trademark under Class 27 provides legal protection, prevents brand dilution, and enhances market credibility.

For expert assistance with trademark registration, Online Legal India provides end-to-end solutions to help businesses safeguard their intellectual property effectively.