Can I bid on the keyword "Walmart"?

6 replies
I've read through Google's trademark policy, and it seems to me like you're allowed to bid on trademarked keywords, but you can't use the trademark in your ad. Is this correct?

The reason I ask is because if I do a search for Walmart or Target, I don't see any ads. There are Walmart/Target Gift Card CPA offers that you could promote... so why not target that keyword? Is is just not targeted enough or or is it a trademark issue?
#bid #keyword #trademark #walmart
  • Profile picture of the author red172
    Banned
    Ive been wondering about that too. I honestly dont know if you can or can't.
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    • Profile picture of the author Jeff Henshaw
      Possibly you could, but I would be careful.

      Problems might arise if, for example, your link was diverted and pointed to a site which 'harmed' Walmart, or it's reputation.

      If your intentions are those of a genuine marketer - and I'm sure that they are - then why not contact Walmart and ask them the question?

      If they refuse your request - nothing lost.

      If they have an affiliate program though, then they will probably want you to sign up to that and will expect you to promote in accordance with their affiliate terms of service.

      Whether those terms will allow you to use Walmart in the search engines however, is something you will need to research for yourself, after signing up.

      Just my thoughts,

      Jeff.
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  • Profile picture of the author willywa
    If your a walmart affiliate there may be some language in the agreement that says you cannot.
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  • Profile picture of the author Christopher Allen
    Why wouldn't Target bid on "Walmart" and vice versa? I'm just surprised there are no ads for a keyword that gets a lot of searches. Certainly someone can make money from that keyword for the minimum bid...
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  • Profile picture of the author Christopher Allen
    I wouldn't use an affiliate program run by Walmart, but a CPA offer run by one of the networks.

    I guess I'll just have to test it and find out...
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  • Profile picture of the author ppc4profit
    Originally Posted by Christopher Allen View Post

    I've read through Google's trademark policy, and it seems to me like you're allowed to bid on trademarked keywords...
    All the above means is that Google has stopped being the policeman and will not prevent you bidding on a trademark term - this does not mean that it is legally approved by the trademark owner.

    Google are just seeking to reduce their costs and say 'nothing to do with us - it is a matter between you and the trademark owner'.

    Jeff Henshaw has good advice which you should consider before you adopt your "I guess I'll just have to test it and find out.." approach.
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