A U.S.-based apparel company owner, Sam Joseph Karam, was surprised to receive an email from Etsy stating that 11 of his T-shirt designs featuring the term “bruh” were removed due to trademark infringement. This was unusual for Karam, who usually sees only one or two listings taken down at a time. Additionally, Etsy revoked his Star Seller badge, impacting his sales.
The email informed Karam that his designs were reported by Malik Yawar Abbas, a Canadian trademark holder for “bruh.” Karam and other Etsy sellers revealed that their listings were removed following complaints by Abbas, who they believe is exploiting the trademark for financial gain rather than producing products.
The Canadian Intellectual Property Office issued a trademark for “bruh” in connection with selling clothing and another for advertising restaurant services to Abbas. Despite the removal of Karam’s listings, Abbas defended his actions, stating that the $1,000 settlement proposal was part of a trademark dispute resolution.
Karam, determined to challenge what he perceives as trademark squatting, is exploring legal avenues to invalidate the trademark. Intellectual property experts suggest that the use of “bruh” on clothing may not constitute infringement, highlighting the complexities of trademark ownership and enforcement.
While Abbas withdrew the complaint to Etsy, Karam feels the damage is irreversible. Legal experts emphasize the need for clearer regulations to address cases like this, advocating for fair processes to challenge questionable trademarks and protect sellers from unwarranted takedowns.
