What We’re Talking About
Taco Tuesday’s Trademark Tug-o-War
Taco Bell — infamously known for their late-night hours and cheesy goodness, has recently filed a petition with the US Patent and Trademark Office to cancel the trademark “Taco Tuesday,” used by their rival chain company Taco John’s for the last 34 years. The hope from Taco Bell is that “Taco Tuesday,” can be shared, as it is a commonly used phrase that “should be freely available to all who make, sell, eat and celebrate tacos.”
Jack Daniels and the Dog Toy Drama
Imagine you are shopping for a new toy for your furry companion. You find a whisky-bottle-shaped squeaky toy with what looks a lot like a Jack Daniels Label and the name “Bad Spaniels.” At first glance, would you assume that Jack Daniels made the toy - or would parody and mimicry come to mind?
Irish I Would Have Gotten a Trademark
The Irish government has protections in place for their two most iconic symbols, the shamrock and harp. While nobody is going to mind if you stick a harp and shamrock on either side of your party hat this St. Patrick’s Day, it won’t be that simple if you want to use the marks on a logo for your new business or as part of your company’s marketing plan.