The trademark "Super Girls," the name of a TV blockbuster pop star contest, has been registered for apparel, shoe and headwear products by a man surnamed Liu from east China's Anhui Province.

Millions of people tuned in to Hunan Satellite Television for the "American Idol"-type live show of "Super Girls" in August. The contest not only produced a new generation of Chinese pop stars, but also generated a bunch of business tips.

Though translated as "Super Girls" in English, the direct translation of the contest's Chinese name is "Super Female Sound." That was why the former trademark registered by the Hunan Satellite Television in 2003 did not form a barrier to Liu's registration.

Liu said that he entrusted a trademark agency in Anhui with a commission fee of 2,000 yuan (250 US dollars) to apply for the trademark registration of "Super Girls" both in English and Chinese. He received a formal approval notice from the State Trademark Administration in just four days.

Industry insiders pointed out that if trademarks registered by individuals are not brought into commercial use for three years, they will be automatically withdrawn by state authorities.

Source: Xinhua