Buc-ee’s files trademark lawsuit against Ohio’s Beaver’s Mini Mart
Texas convenience-store chain Buc-ee’s has sued Ohio’s Beaver’s Mini Mart, alleging the smaller retailer’s name and beaver logo infringe its federally registered trademarks.
Buc-ee’s, a Texas-based convenience-store chain, filed a federal trademark infringement suit against Beaver’s Mini Mart in Beavercreek, Ohio. The complaint asserts that the Ohio store’s use of a cartoon beaver with wide eyes, a smile and prominent red coloring is likely to cause confusion with Buc-ee’s own beaver mascot, which is protected by federal registration. The plaintiff seeks a court order requiring Beaver’s Mini Mart to cease using the contested name and logo, remove related signage and marketing materials, surrender any profits tied to the alleged infringement, and pay damages and attorney fees. A jury trial has been requested.
Beaver’s Mini Mart owner Vik Boparai says the business has operated since 2017, predating Buc-ee’s first Ohio location in nearby Huber Heights, which opened earlier this year. The two stores are situated about 16 miles apart.
The lawsuit follows a series of similar trademark actions taken by Buc-ee’s against other businesses it claims mimic its beaver mascot. Both parties have been contacted for comment.