Trademarks often start life as the surnames for talented individuals, but to become perennial luxury trademarks, such as TIFFANY, CHANEL, CARTIER, or VUITTON, the trademark owner must find a succession of talented individuals to maintain the quality that customers come to expect. This week Gucci was affected by the news that star designer Tom Ford
Free Coupon Forgeries
The NY Times (free registration required) today reported on a surge in forged counterfeit coupons The surge is attributable in part to the distribution of coupons over the Internet. As a result, retailers are declining to honor coupons that appear to have been created on copiers or printers. Consumer marketing consultant and syndicated columnist Martin Sloane cautions
British Meat v. BRITISHMEAT.ORG
After a hiatus, UDRPLAW.NET is back in action, with the account of a successful defense of a UDRP brought against the registrant of BRITISHMEAT.ORG.
Who Owns The Media In America
Via the Columbia Journalism Review, an online guide of who owns what media in America.
Crocodile v. Crocodile v. Crocodile
Problem regarding crocodile logos between La Chemise Lacoste of France, Crocodile Garments of Hong Kong and Crocodile International of Singapore, via China Daily. Background (and depiction of re-designed croc logo from Crocodile Garments) via CNN here.
You've Got To Fight For Your Right To Sample
Beastie Boys’ sampling of “common, trite, generic three-note sequence” from plaintiff’s copyrighted composition held to be de minimis and not actionable. Newton v. Diamond, et. al., No. 02-55983 (9th Circuit, Nov. 4, 2003).
Supreme Court Refuses to Rollover For Consumer Union
The Supreme Court has denied Consumer Union’s petition for cert. to hear its appeal of a decision allowing Suzuki Motors’ lawsuit regarding Consumer Union’s magazine article reporting that the Suzuki Samurai was dangerous. Via Boston Globe. Background here. Washington Post discussion here.
Scottish Football Trademarks
The Scotsman helpfully reports that two thirds of the Scottish Football League teams have not registered their trademarks, including premier league club Dunfermline. Words to a trademark attorney’s ears:
It would cost as little as £200 to register with the patent office. Yet the 27 clubs that have not registered will find it more difficult
Ceramic Bank Trade Dress Case
Perine Lowe, manufacturer of A BLOCK TO GROW ON ceramic bank prevails against Dolly, Inc., manufacturer of BABY’S KEEPSAKE CERAMIC BANK in trade dress case in Central District of California. Prevailing party press release here.
