The University of Texas alleges Staples Street Meat Market continued using its Longhorn logo and signature orange color scheme despite repeated requests to stop.
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The University of Texas System has filed a federal lawsuit against a Corpus Christi meat market, alleging the business illegally used the university’s iconic Longhorn logo and branding without permission.
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas on July 29, names Staples Street Meat Market, LLC and its owner, Michael Meehan, as defendants.
According to the complaint, the university alleges the meat market used a logo that is identical to the University’s Longhorn silhouette in connection with its Corpus Christi business. The lawsuit also claims the business used an orange color scheme similar to the university’s branding.
The University of Texas says it sent the business a demand letter after discovering the logo, asking it to stop using the design and color scheme. However, the lawsuit alleges the business continued displaying the logo on its signage and promotional materials despite repeated communications from the university.
The university argues the logo could confuse customers into believing the meat market is affiliated with, sponsored by or approved by UT. It also claims the business is benefiting from the university’s well-known brand and reputation.
The lawsuit accuses the defendants of federal trademark infringement, unfair competition, trademark dilution under Texas law and unjust enrichment.
The University of Texas is asking the court to permanently prohibit the meat market from using the Longhorn logo or similar designs, require the removal and destruction of signs and promotional materials featuring the logo, award damages, turn over any profits tied to the alleged trademark use, and require the defendants to pay attorneys’ fees and court costs.
The allegations are contained in the lawsuit.
A judge has not ruled on the claims, and the defendants have not yet filed a response in court.
3NEWS has reached out to the owner of Staples Street Meat Market for comment and will provide updates as more information becomes available.