After losing a trademark dispute in February, Capri Coffee franchises are facing a name change beginning on Monday. The Colorado-based franchisor learned late last year that its trademark application was refused because the trademark was owned by another company, Caffe D'Arte LLC. Caffe D'Arte, a Seattle-based coffee roaster, then filed a federal trademark infringement against Capri. Capri's franchisees have been given options to convert to Saxby's Coffee (a different concept launched by the former Capri president) or to remain Capri and address the name change. At least eleven franchisees have abandoned the franchise altogether and operate independent shops in a deal negotiated by the group's lawyer.
Posted by franchiselawblog at March 18, 2004 12:11 PM