Collective trademarks are symbols shared by various economic actors, such as producers or distributors, without necessarily belonging exclusively to them. Their purpose is to unite these businesses while giving them a common reputation and identity in the eyes of consumers.

According to Article L. 715-1 of the French Intellectual Property Code, a collective trademark can be used by any person complying with specific regulations defined by the registration holder. A collective certification mark is awarded to a product or service with precise characteristics defined in its regulations, particularly in terms of nature, properties, or qualities.

In France, labels are legally considered collective trademarks. For example, the “Parc naturel régional” (Regional Natural Park) trademark is a collective trademark registered by the Ministry of Regional Planning and the Environment. For a product to be eligible for this designation, it must meet four criteria: originate from the Park, be authentic, artisanal, and natural.