Bentley Motors loses trade mark battle with Manchester clothing retailer

British luxury car maker Bentley Motors has been accused of infringing the trade marks of a family-run clothing store in Manchester.

Last week, the Courts ruled in favour of the Manchester business ‘Brandlogic’, who sells clothing registered under the name ‘Bentley Clothing’.

Bentley motors who have made luxury cars since 1919, have a range of clothes and wearable items for sale. The clothes, which match the carmakers high end image, sell polos shirts retailing at £215.00 and jackets retailing at £2,400. If the motor giant fails to be granted the permission the appeal, they would be required to stop all sales of Bentley clothing in the UK.

In a statement, Bentley Motors said: “We have been selling clothing for more than 30 years in the UK and at no point has there been any evidence of confusion with another company's trademark", adding that they would be considering an appeal.

If found guilty of trade mark infringement, Bentley motors may need to pay damages, hand over, or completely destroy any clothing in their possession which could amount to continuation of infringement.  

As seen here, infringing a registered trade mark could find you in hot water. Litigation, damages and legal fees can be costly and as a result, affect your business endeavors.

If you are concerned that your trade mark is being used without your consent or have any questions relating to trade marks, contact us today where we would be happy to assist you!