Damage to Brand Reputation from Trademark Infringement and Similar Trademarks
First written in FY2017. 2 of 3 entries say "Restated". Latest entry: FY2026.
The whole theme swung hardest in 2023: 1 of 6 companies on the "Worse" side.
13 other companies' latest entry also says "Restated".
- FY2026RestatedAnnual report
「As of the date of filing this document, there are no lawsuits or disputes concerning the registration or use of the trademarks, nor are there any arrangements or other restrictions on the Group’s business activities. However, because some of the terms in these trademarks are common nouns in general use, if the Group’s trademark rights are infringed in the future through the emergence or unauthorised use of similar trademarks, the value of the Group’s brands and the trust of its customers could be damaged.」
The risks of brand damage and legal claims arising from similar trademarks, unauthorised use and infringement of third-party trademark rights are reiterated. - FY2019RestatedAnnual report
「Because some of the terms in these trademarks are common nouns in general use, if the Group’s trademark rights are infringed in the future through the emergence or unauthorised use of similar trademarks, the value of the Group’s brands and the trust of its customers could be damaged. In addition, if it is discovered for any reason that a trademark used by the Group infringes a registered trademark owned by a third party, the Group could face claims for an injunction against use of the trademark, damages and other payments.」
The risks of brand damage and legal claims arising from similar trademarks, unauthorised use and infringement of third-party trademark rights are reiterated. - FY2017First statedAnnual report
「Because some of the terms in these trademarks are common nouns in general use, if the Group’s trademark rights are infringed in the future through the emergence or unauthorised use of similar trademarks, the value of the Group’s brands and the trust of its customers could be damaged. In addition, if it is discovered for any reason that a trademark used by the Group infringes a registered trademark owned by a third party, the Group could face claims for an injunction against use of the trademark, damages and other payments.」
The disclosure describes the possibility of declines in brand value and legal claims relating to trademarks such as 大阪王将, よってこや and 太陽のトマト麺 as a result of similar trademarks, unauthorised use and infringement of third-party trademark rights.