Battle for the Bar Cart: Bacardi Loses High-Stakes Fight Over Havana Club Rum Trademark
The Fourth Circuit just dropped a major ruling in the decades-long battle over the Havana Club name, and it is a massive blow to Bacardi's attempt to claim the legendary trademark.
By Foodie Pundit Newsroom - Published - Updated - Section: Policy Regulation
Key points
- The Fourth Circuit upheld the USPTO's decision to renew the Cuban 'Havana Club' trademark, rejecting Bacardi's challenge.
- The ruling means Bacardi cannot currently claim exclusive rights to the name in the U.S. based on the expiration theory.
- The decision highlights how U.S. trade embargoes create unique 'legal loopholes' for trademark preservation.
- Independent bars must continue to navigate the confusion of two different 'Havana Club' products on the global market.
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