‘Transformers’ trade mark trouble for Warner Bros

Warner Brother Studios have found themselves in trade mark hot water after using ‘bumblebee’ in their latest range of action toys.

Hasbro, the toy manufacturer, own the rights and subsequent trade marks in relation to the ‘Transformers’ film franchise. This includes the characters of the films.

A character that takes the lead in many of the films, is Bumblebee, a yellow car which transforms into a robot.

Bumblebee is the source of contention, as Warner Bros have just released their new line of action toys, named ‘Bumblebee Super Hero Girls’.

Using their US registered trade marks as a basis, Hasbro have filed an action to claim that Warner Bros have infringed their bumblebee trade mark by naming their toys ‘Bumblebee Super Hero Girls’.

The claim stated that the new toy line name will cause public confusion as the two products will be sold within the same market.

In addition to the Bumblebee Super Hero Girls toy range, the claim also relates to a Warner Bros product which allows the user to make their own transformer.

Hasbro are asking for an injunction, damages and costs. It will be interesting to see how this toy battle will end.

By Ellis Sweetenham