Buc-ee's Sues Ohio Mini-Mart Over Logo While Ignoring John Oliver's Challenge
Texas-based Buc-ee’s filed a trademark lawsuit against Ohio’s Beaver’s Mini Mart, alleging logo similarity, as the chain has not responded to comedian John Oliver’s invitation to be sued over a parody merchandise line.
Buc-ee’s, the Texas convenience-store chain that expanded into Ohio earlier this year, has filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against Beaver’s Mini Mart in Beavercreek. The complaint claims the local store’s cartoon beaver logo, which features large eyes, a smile and a predominately red color scheme, is likely to confuse consumers with Buc-ee’s own branding.
The legal action comes after comedian John Oliver, host of "Last Week Tonight," publicly challenged the company to sue him over a parody "Buc-Off" merchandise line that uses a squirrel mascot. Oliver said the proceeds from the merchandise are donated to Hunger Free America and warned that a lawsuit would divert funds from feeding the hungry.
"So, if any prominent gas station chain out there has an issue with our new logo and products and wants to get lawyers involved, then you know what? Bring it the f--- on," Oliver said.
Oliver has previously faced a defamation suit in 2017 that was dismissed. The new trademark case marks Buc-ee’s first known litigation since entering the Ohio market, while the company has not yet responded to Oliver’s challenge.