Toolkit: Branded Goods
Overview
At Utah State University, Branded Goods are any items—merchandise, apparel, or equipment—that feature the University name, logos, wordmarks, or intellectual property.
Whether these goods are for internal consumption (such as staff uniforms and event giveaways) or for retail sale (such as Campus Store inventory and fundraisers), they must adhere to university branding standards.
University Policy 5100: Protecting the Aggie Brand
Our trademarks are more than just logos; they represent our history, our impact, and our reputation. USU Policy 5100 ensures the university maintains sole ownership and control of all university marks. By centralizing trademark management, we protect the Aggie brand and ensure it is represented with excellence worldwide.
To stay brand compliant and protect the university’s interests, please keep these standards in mind:
- Ownership and Control: USU retains ownership of all trademarks developed by employees in connection with their university roles.
- Design Pre-Approval: All designs featuring university marks must be reviewed and approved by University Marketing & Communications, Licensing and Brand Activation before production begins.
- Licensed Vendors: To guarantee quality and ethical sourcing, all branded goods—regardless of the funding source—must be produced by officially licensed vendors.
- Authorized Usage: We all play a part in protecting the university’s reputation. Submit your designs through the Branded Goods Artwork Review request in ServiceNow.
Internal Consumption: It Still Counts
A common misconception is that items intended for internal distribution (such as giveaways, uniforms, or department supplies) aren't "branded goods" because they aren't for sale. However, according to university policy, any physical item bearing a university mark is classified as a branded good.
What Qualifies?
- Apparel & Uniforms: Staff polos, student employee T-shirts, or lab coats.
- Event Giveaways: Pens, stickers, water bottles, or tote bags.
- Departmental Assets: Branded tablecloths, pop-up banners, and tents.
- Awards & Recognition: Plaques, trophies, or gifts featuring university marks.
Why It Matters: Quality & Ethics
- Quality Control: Licensed vendors are vetted to ensure USU marks are reproduced accurately and consistently.
- Social Responsibility: All licensed vendors are required to maintain membership in the Fair Labor Association (FLA). This ensures every product is manufactured under fair, safe, and humane working conditions.
- Supporting Students: Royalties from branded goods directly support Utah State University scholarships and student programs.
- Note: While royalties are waived for most internal uses, a standard 14% royalty applies if items are sold for fundraising purposes.
Key Guidelines for Branded Goods
- Prioritize Originality: We encourage departments to develop unique designs that celebrate their specific mission within the university brand ecosystem.
- Respect Intellectual Property: Always practice proper attribution and avoid using third-party materials without clear permission.
- Avoid Infringement: Do not use logos, slogans, or brand names belonging to other companies without written authorization.
- Official Authentication: Look for the "Officially Licensed Collegiate Product" hologram label on all retail merchandise to guarantee brand authenticity.
- Coordinate Collaborations: Any use of USU marks involving endorsements, sponsorships, or co-branding must go through the formal Trademark Review Process.