Fry-Day Feud: Gujarat Company Sues McDonald's Over Trademark
Fry-Day Feud: Gujarat Company Sues McDonald's Over Trademark
Introduction
McPatel Foods Private Limited, an Indian snack maker, has filed a civil suit against McDonald’s Corporation before an Ahmedabad rural court, alleging that the global fast-food chain has issued groundless legal threats objecting to its use of the mark “McPatel.”
Factual Background
McPatel Foods filed an application to register the mark “McPatel” under Class 30 in March 2024, covering products such as bakery goods, snacks, and frozen foods. McDonald’s opposed the application, alleging that the “McPatel” mark is deceptively similar to its “Mc” and “Mac” family of trademarks.
Contentions of the Parties
McDonald’s Contentions:
- The “McPatel” mark is deceptively similar to its “Mc” and “Mac” family of trademarks.
- The “Mc” prefix has acquired distinctiveness through long-standing and extensive use globally and in India.
- The adoption of the mark “McPatel” is alleged to be in bad faith, intended to benefit from McDonald’s goodwill.
McPatel Foods Contentions:
- The mark “McPatel” was adopted from its registered corporate name and trading style and has no intention to misrepresent or benefit from any association with McDonald’s.
- The mark is visually, phonetically, and conceptually different from the cited McDonald’s trademarks.
- The opposition is motivated by “business jealousy” and is filed in bad faith to harass a domestic company.
Issues
The primary issue is whether McDonald’s has issued unjustified or groundless threats objecting to McPatel Foods’ use of the mark “McPatel,” and whether McPatel Foods is entitled to an injunction restraining McDonald’s from initiating or threatening legal proceedings.
Reasoning & Analysis
The case is currently listed for hearing on July 28, 2025. The trademark registry has not finally decided on the dispute, and the outcome is expected to be delayed due to the pendency of the litigation.
Implications
This case illustrates the complexities of trademark disputes, particularly when it comes to the use of distinctive prefixes like “Mc.” The outcome will depend on the court’s interpretation of the trademark laws and the evidence presented by both parties.
Outcome
The case is ongoing, and the court will likely consider the arguments and evidence presented by both parties before making a decision.
