Trader Joe’s Trademark Lawsuit Revived by Ninth Circuit

What: Trader Joe’s⁤ sued its employee union, ⁣Trader Joe’s United, over trademark infringement related to union merchandise logos.
Where: ⁤ Legal battles unfolded in US District Court and the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals.
When: Initial⁣ lawsuit filed in 2023,dismissed ⁣in early 2024,appealed,and partially revived in September 2025.
Why it Matters: Highlights a company using trademark law to possibly stifle union activity – a tactic often described as “trademark bullying.” The case ‍raises questions about the⁣ appropriate use of intellectual property rights.
What’s Next: The case returns to the lower court for further proceedings, though the 9th Circuit’s decision was largely procedural. The ‍union will likely continue to fight the suit,arguing the logos are not confusingly similar.

Key Details & Timeline

Date	Event
2023	Trader Joe’s files trademark infringement lawsuit against Trader Joe’s United.
Early 2024	District Court dismisses the case.
February ⁢2024	Trader Joe’s‍ appeals the‍ dismissal.
May 2024	Trader Joe’s ordered to pay six-figure legal fees to the union.
september 2025	9th Circuit Court of appeals partially revives the lawsuit on procedural grounds.