The consumer products industry is as vast as the name implies. Accounting for nearly two-thirds of the volume of trade in the international economy, the consumer products industry is truly distinct in its deep interconnectedness with other sectors of commerce. Including sectors such as household appliances, toys, food & beverages, personal care products, furniture and countless other areas, the consumer products industry is the driving force behind industries such as manufacturing and advertising and is a perennial barometer for the health of the American consumer and the greater economy. 

Year after year, consumer products and services companies rank the highest of all industries in reputation among consumers. The power of brand recognition through trademarks is a central factor behind that success. Even though the consumer products industry is flooded with countless brands and companies, strong patents and effective trademarks mitigate stifling competition. 

Today, the present health of the consumer products industry is mired by the overall downturn in the economy, but the long term staying power of the industry is obvious. From durable goods such as washing machines and furniture to nondurable goods such as toothpaste and food products, there will always be a demand for new products to serve the consumer in every day life.  

The staying power of major consumer products brands under conglomerates is complemented by the continual emergence of niche companies that grow rapidly to fill specialized demand in the marketplace. While growth in the consumer products industry has been chiefly dominated by the emergence of new consumer electronics companies, new clothing and food and beverage companies have constantly emerged as consumer trends and tastes evolve over time. 

Thorough research and design is fundamental in a product’s viability, but with robust patent and trademark strategies a consumer product can better capitalize on market demand through protecting unique functions and improved marketing impact. As more niches and demands in the consumer products industry continue to be filled by new brands, product, innovations, and inventions, intellectual property rights will remain at the foundation of this ubiquitous industry.