Robbie Williams could be gearing up for a trademark fight with fellow music megastar Ed Sheeran. The Stoke-on-Trent-born singer has applied to trademark a bear design for a range of products including clothes and cosmetics, inspired by his daughter Teddie. But The proposed logo bears a striking resemblance to that used by Ed's Tingly Ted's brand, which sells hot sauces and has the rights to sell clothing featuring its bear emblem, reports the Mirror.
One source told us: “If I was Ed, I’d probably be opposing Robbie’s bid. The designs are very similar, cover the same trading classes and crucially, they’re both famous singers. Ed could argue Robbie’s trademark, if granted, could deny him sales so Robbie could very well find himself in the middle of another bitter trademark war.”
Trademark Troubles
This isn’t the first time Robbie has been embroiled in a trademark dispute. Earlier this year, the former Take That star had to back down after a two-year battle with fashion house Yves Saint Laurent over his use of the name Hopeium. Lawyers for the French brand argued that the name was too similar to its Black Opium perfume. Robbie, who has an estimated net worth of £233million, was eventually told he could sell clothes under the name but not cosmetics or toiletries. But it seems he hasn’t given up on the beauty market just yet.
A Bear-y Close Call
The bear logo Robbie has proposed for his new line of products looks “remarkably like” the one used by Ed Sheeran’s Tingly Ted’s brand. Ed currently sells hot sauces under the trademark – but also has permission to sell clothes branded with his bear. The resemblance between the two logos is likely to cause trouble for Robbie, as Ed could argue that the trademark would prevent him from selling his own products.
Robbie’s Recent Successes
Despite the potential trademark troubles, Robbie is currently enjoying a lot of success. He recently headlined British Summer Time in London’s Hyde Park wearing Hopeium gear, and is currently working on a new album. His biopic, Better Man, is due out in December. Robbie recently said: “I’ve never been as ambitious as I am right now. I’m full of purpose and loving life.”
Will This Be Another Bitter Trademark War?
It remains to be seen whether Robbie’s trademark application will be granted. If it is, Ed Sheeran could choose to oppose it, which could lead to a bitter trademark war. Only time will tell how this will play out, but one thing is for sure: Robbie Williams is never one to shy away from a challenge.
This isn’t the first time that a celebrity has been involved in a trademark dispute. In 2018, Kim Kardashian West was sued by a company called Kimsaprincess Inc. over her use of the name “Kim” for her beauty products. The lawsuit was eventually settled out of court, but it highlights the importance of trademarks in the world of celebrity brands.
The Importance of Trademarks
Trademarks are an important way for businesses to protect their brand identity. They can prevent other businesses from using similar names, logos, or slogans. This is particularly important for celebrities, who rely on their brand image to maintain their success. It seems that Robbie Williams has learned that the hard way. This bear-y close call could be the start of another trademark war for the singer, as he faces the potential for a legal battle with fellow music star, Ed Sheeran.
