Louis Vuitton, the international fashion giant, has taken legal action against the thriving British family business L V Bespoke over a trademark dispute involving the use of the initials “L V.” L V Bespoke, founded by Lawrence and Victoria Osborne after their construction business was forced to close during the COVID-19 pandemic, specializes in handmade gardening products, including plants, steel plant supports, and various home and garden items. The fashion powerhouse, renowned for its distinctive interlocking “L” and “V” logo, is opposing L V Bespoke’s application to register their name as a UK trademark. The hearing for this case is scheduled for Monday.
Victoria Osborne, co-founder of L V Bespoke, stated that Louis Vuitton claims to have superior rights to use the initials “L V” and has expressed concerns about the handmade metalwork products offered by L V Bespoke, which feature metal elements similar to the “L V” symbols found on Louis Vuitton handbags. Louis Vuitton argues that L V Bespoke’s use of the initials could give them an unfair advantage, as the public may associate it with their own brand. Additionally, they contend that their reputation could be compromised if L V Bespoke’s trademark dilutes the distinctiveness of their brand.
The Osbornes are seeking a trademark for their metal plant supports, which Louis Vuitton claims falls under a category in which they hold exclusive rights based on their trademark. This category includes metal components used for leatherware such as locks, buckles, button handles, and closure systems. L V Bespoke denies Louis Vuitton’s claim of exclusive rights to the letters “L” and “V,” stating that some of the arguments presented during the hearing were laughable and surprising. However, the financial strain caused by the legal battle has taken a toll on the small family business, making it difficult for them to continue challenging Louis Vuitton’s claims.
Having already spent a substantial amount of money on legal fees, the Osbornes expressed their frustration, stating that they have done everything they can and must now wait for the official verdict. L V Bespoke announced on their Facebook page that a decision may be reached by December. The couple launched their gardening company in 2020 after their construction and holiday rental businesses were affected by lockdowns. Despite their legal struggles, L V Bespoke achieved record sales of £250,000 in 2022.
Louis Vuitton, a division of LVMH – Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, is owned by Bernard Arnault, the world’s second richest man with a net worth of $205 billion. The Paris-based luxury goods company announced revenue of £79.2 billion in 2022, marking a 23% increase from the previous year. As Europe’s most valuable stock by market capitalization, Louis Vuitton holds a prominent position in the luxury goods market.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
