The container shape of S.T.CORPORATION's 米唐番 rice-bin insect repellent has been registered as a three-dimensional trademark. The registered shape consists of a red bottle and a green cap with a pointed tip, receiving official recognition on the strength of its long history of use.
S.T.CORPORATION announced that the container shape of its 米唐番 rice-bin insect repellent had been registered by the Japan Patent Office as a three-dimensional trademark. The registration is notable because the shape of the container itself, without any lettering or logo, was recognised as a trademark. The company explained that the registration represents official recognition of the product's high level of recognition, based on its long history of use.
The registered three-dimensional trademark is the shape of the 米唐番 container, consisting of a red bottle and a green cap with a pointed tip, signifying that it is recognised as a design symbolising the brand. S.T.CORPORATION said it will continue to protect its intellectual property and strengthen protection of its brand assets.
Since its launch in 2003, 米唐番 has been sold as an insect repellent that protects rice bins from insects using a formulation combining natural chili pepper powder and fermented alcohol. The product line includes 5kg and 10kg versions, as well as a version for pre-washed rice. The container can be hung inside a rice bin or inserted directly into the rice, and its jelly feature, which indicates when it should be replaced, as well as its design, have been maintained over the years. The insect-repellent effect varies depending on conditions of use, but is generally intended to last approximately 6 months.
The three-dimensional trademark system protects three-dimensional shapes with a certain degree of distinctiveness as trademarks, and registration may be granted even without lettering or a logo. S.T.CORPORATION said it will continue to promote the protection of its brand assets in light of this registration.