You might remember DoubleShot Coffee owner Brian Franklin, who is being sued by Starbucks for trademark violation. They claim they “own” the name of the common industry term “doubleshot.” They also claim they own the trademarks on “coffee, the complete works of Herman Melville, your immortal soul and your wife’s loins.”

Anyway, depressing news. Brian Franklin looks like he might seriously be considering giving up the good fight.

Time is drawing short and some critical decisions need to be made. Many people have recommended that I just submit to Starbucks and change the name of my business. They have too much money and could squeeze me out of business, right? Maybe I’m an idealist, but in my mind this isn’t just about a little caf

in Tulsa Oklahoma. This is about what is right and wrong. This is about a corporation trying to live above the rules, and lay claim to words that have been in the coffee industry for a century. I’m not the kind of guy to lay down and let the schoolyard bully push me around.

The response to the attorneys will happen this week. Should I press the issue and take a chance of being sued? If I am sued, where will I get the money for a lawyer? Will someone trustworthy of this case work pro bono? If I cannot find a lawyer, can I stand up for myself in court? I know I am right; and I know that I can clearly state the case. If I must have a lawyer for a lawsuit and do not have one, should I play it safe and negotiate backward? There is much to consider.

He’s right, it’s a tough choice, and Starbucks is depending not upon the legality of their claims but on bleeding him out of business far before it could get to trial. It’s easy for us to tell him he should stand up against Starbuck’s absurd bullying and strike a Davidesque blow against the colossus, but it’s a different thing entirely when you’ve got the well-being of your family and employees to think about.

Anyway, we think Brian could use a pat on the back. So if you’re in Tulsa, why not drop buy for a cup of joe and cheer Brian an attaboy for us. If you’re not, why not give him a call at 918-599-7700, voice your support and maybe order some coffee from him? Or just order from Brian direct?

DoubleShot Coffee Muses Whether He Can Fight Starbucks [Doubleshot Coffee Blog]
Previous DoubleShot Coffee vs. Starbucks Stories

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