KFC Sues Church's Texas Chicken Over 'Original Recipe' Trademark Claims

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KFC vs. Church's Texas Chicken Lawsuit Details

Background:
KFC has filed a federal lawsuit against Church's Texas Chicken, alleging that the smaller fast-food chain violated KFC's trademark by using the phrase "original recipe" in its marketing. The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas on November 8, 2024.

KFC's Claims:

Trademark Infringement: KFC argues that Church's use of the phrase "original recipe" infringes on KFC's trademark, which has been central to its brand since 1972. KFC trademarked the phrase in 1984 and contends that Church's use of the term is likely to create confusion and dilute the unique value of its brand.
Deceptive Marketing: KFC claims that Church’s marketing tactics, including advertisements on its website, social media, and television, are misleading and likely to deceive consumers into believing that Church's products are affiliated with or authorized by KFC.
Willful Disregard: KFC alleges that Church’s Texas Chicken ignored a letter sent on October 24, 2024, objecting to the use of "original recipe." KFC contends that Church's conduct is "willful and in reckless disregard" of KFC’s legal rights.
Damages and Relief: KFC is seeking an injunction to stop Church's from using the "original recipe" phrase in its marketing. Additionally, KFC is asking for monetary damages, including three times the profits realized by Church's through its infringing activities.

Church's Texas Chicken's Response:
As of now, Church's Texas Chicken has not publicly responded to the lawsuit. Requests for comment from both KFC and Church's Texas Chicken are pending.

Legal Context:
KFC's legal team, including attorneys Joseph Petersen, Craig McDougal, and Christin Jones, is handling the case. The lawsuit is being heard as KFC Corp v. Church’s Texas Chicken, No. 4:24-cv-01000, in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas.

Market Impact:
KFC's lawsuit comes at a time when the brand is facing increased competition and declining same-store sales in the U.S. market. Smaller competitors like Church's Texas Chicken, with an average unit volume of about $1 million, are trying to boost their sales through new marketing strategies and menu items.

Conclusion

The lawsuit highlights the competitive nature of the fast-food industry, where established brands like KFC are aggressive in protecting their trademarks against smaller rivals. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for both KFC and Church's Texas Chicken in terms of market positioning and legal precedents.

KFC Sues Church's Texas Chicken Over 'Original Recipe' Trademark Claims

Preview

KFC vs. Church's Texas Chicken Lawsuit Details

KFC's Claims:

Trademark Infringement: KFC argues that Church's use of the phrase "original recipe" infringes on KFC's trademark, which has been central to its brand since 1972. KFC trademarked the phrase in 1984 and contends that Church's use of the term is likely to create confusion and dilute the unique value of its brand.
Deceptive Marketing: KFC claims that Church’s marketing tactics, including advertisements on its website, social media, and television, are misleading and likely to deceive consumers into believing that Church's products are affiliated with or authorized by KFC.
Willful Disregard: KFC alleges that Church’s Texas Chicken ignored a letter sent on October 24, 2024, objecting to the use of "original recipe." KFC contends that Church's conduct is "willful and in reckless disregard" of KFC’s legal rights.
Damages and Relief: KFC is seeking an injunction to stop Church's from using the "original recipe" phrase in its marketing. Additionally, KFC is asking for monetary damages, including three times the profits realized by Church's through its infringing activities.

Church's Texas Chicken's Response:
As of now, Church's Texas Chicken has not publicly responded to the lawsuit. Requests for comment from both KFC and Church's Texas Chicken are pending.