Arctic Food Lab -applying for a trademark
The Arctic Food Lab trademark highlights the value of local ingredients, Arctic flavors, and sustainability.
By using the trademark, you show customers that your product or service is part of the unique food culture of the Oulu2026 European Capital of Culture region.
It helps visitors and locals recognize high-quality, locally made food and the unique taste experiences that come from our region’s nature and know-how. Being part of the network also means new opportunities—networking, joining campaigns, and learning new skills. Together, we’re shaping the future of northern food culture.
How to apply – Benefits and criteria
You can find the link to the trademark application form at the end of this page. Explore what are the concrete benefits and criteria before applying. We hope you join the network and let’s place our regions’ Arctic flavours on the world map!
1. Arctic Food Lab – benefits of the trademark
- Visibility: You can use the Oulu2026 Arctic Food Lab trademark for free on your food products, restaurant dishes, or menus. It tells your customers that you value Arctic flavours, local ingredients, and sustainability—helping build interest and trust. Your business will also be featured on the Arctic Food Lab website and social media. Plus, you’re free to share that visibility on your own channels too!
- Marketing support: you will have the opportunity to use the Arctic Food Lab trademark in marketing activities such as product packaging, social media and at events.
- Increase sales: you can get more sales outlets at events, pop-ups and chain stores. You can take advantage of the free Arctic Food Lab Pop-up in Oulu’s market hall.
- Networking: become part of an active network where you can share experiences and develop cooperation with others in the industry. You will receive a newsletter, information on events and opportunities directly in your inbox.
- Participation in events: the opportunity to participate in events and activities organised by Arctic Food Lab, which provide visibility, sales opportunities and customer contacts.
- International opportunities: the Arctic Food Lab also opens doors to international markets, especially as part of the Oulu2026 Capital of Culture programme. Get involved in the planning and content of the European Capital of Culture Arctic Food Lab events.
- Promoting regional food culture: you will be involved in strengthening the food culture of the Oulu2026 area and making it more attractive to tourists and locals. The Arctic Food Lab network will be strongly involved in the cultural programme.
2. Arctic Food Lab trademark criteria
- The product or dish is made in the Oulu2026 area. The product can be a food product, a dish from a restaurant menu or a Arctic Food Lab themed menu.
- The product or service has been produced using mainly local raw materials.
- The product contributes to the principles of sustainable and climate-friendly development at various stages of the production, packaging and distribution process.
- The trademarked operator shares the Arctic Food Lab’s values: courage, fairness and responsibility.
- A trademarked product or service may be associated with a story.
- In addition to the trademark, the product packaging or menu can also include a short story about the Arctic Food Lab and the Arctic food culture.
- In exceptional circumstances, the criteria may be negotiated.
3. Apply for the trademark
Join and get the benefits of the Arctic Food Lab trademark! Fill out the form below and we’ll be in touch with you soon.
We will send you instructions and materials for using the trademark once your application has been processed. If needed, we’re happy to help you with application and brand implementation. Just reach out anytime!