Battle of the Stripes: Adidas versus Thom Browne (Part 1)

Alessia MonasteroFashion, News, trademarks

On December 14, 2020, Adidas filed an opposition with the United States Patent and Trademarks Trial and Appeal Board against Thom Browne’s US trademark applications for a red, white, and blue parallel stripe for use on footwear. Adidas has opposed the applications, which have been filed on an intent-to-use basis, on the grounds of likelihood of confusion and dilution by blurring.

UGGS Boots

When Culture And Copyright Clash In An UGGly Lawsuit

Erika MurrayNews, trademarks

The “Ugg” phenomena took North America by storm when Oprah Winfrey first endorsed the Ugg boots  – furry, cozy, shaggy, and ‘ugly’ footwear.  While these unique looking booties were heckled for some time, the footwear eventually became not only mainstream, but also coveted by celebrities and the general public alike. …

Trademarked Stork Upheld in Canadian Copyright Case

Erika Murraycopyright, News, trademarks

A recent trademark infringement case between Stork Market Inc v. 1736735 Ontario Inc. (Hello Pink Lawn Cards Inc), 2017 FC 779 has resulted in a win for the plaintiff and retribution in the amount of $30,000. The copyright and trademark case deals with competitors in the business of renting and …

Captain Morgan Remains Commander of His Ship

Marc Lamperttrademarks

Captain Morgan rum sales to spice up following the company’s successful defense of its design trademarks and distinguishing guise against Admiral Nelson’s spiced rum, barring sales of any bottled products with the patent-infringing Admiral Nelson character. (See: Diageo Canada Inc. v. Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc.) The trademark infringement decision dated …

trademark infingement case

The Unicorn of Trademark Infringement Cases

Robert Tremblaytrademarks

A Local Brooklyn cafe The End (with co-plaintiff Montauk Juice Factory Inc.) recently filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against corporate behemoth Starbucks, claiming that one of their most popular drinks – the Unicorn Latte – was infringed by the release of Starbucks’ limited edition Unicorn Frappuccino. It’s easy to see …

Great branding sells: American Apparel’s big IP payoff

Erika MurrayExpert Insights, News, trademarks

Entrepreneurs can learn important lessons on the value of good branding from T-shirt maker Gildan Activewear Inc.’s $88 million purchase of American Apparel, says Toronto intellectual property lawyer Erika Murray. The Montreal-based clothing company will acquire the intellectual property rights related to the American Apparel brand, but not its 110 …