Born United pays Buc-ee’s $850K in South Carolina logo suit
A North Charleston-based apparel company has agreed to pay Buc-ee’s $850,000 to settle a trademark infringement lawsuit the Texas travel center filed in South Carolina last year. Born United, LLC consented to a judgment that prohibits it from using Buc-ee’s signature beaver logo or any similar branding, according to court records.
U.S. District Judge David Norton signed a consent judgment and permanent injunction on Aug. 19, ending the dispute between Buc-ee’s and multiple Born United entities.
Buc-ee’s had accused Born United of selling shirts, shorts and other merchandise featuring the chain’s federally protected beaver logo without authorization. The company also alleged Born United continued selling the products despite receiving a cease-and-desist letter.
Images in court documents show Born United’s designs using the Buc-ee’s beaver likeness dressed in military-style clothing, with the words “An American Tradition” printed above the icon.
Born United consented to judgment on claims including trademark infringement, false designation of origin, unfair competition and unjust enrichment. The company must destroy any remaining product and marketing materials.
In South Carolina, Buc-ee’s currently operates a store in Florence, with plans to expand to Anderson and Hardeeville. Born United operates storefronts in North Charleston, Summerville and Myrtle Beach.
