Monster vs. Vermonster: The Vermont microbrewer Rock Art Brewery has been given a cease and desist order from Hansen Beverage Company, manufacturers of Monster Energy drinks. Trademarked energy drink vs. trademarked beer, and both marks are registered.
There's no likelihood of confusing Monster Energy with Vermonster the beer, as they're both in different markets, in the same way no one mistakes Delta Air Lines for Delta Faucets. Nevertheless, Hansen apparently plan on entering the beer market and see the established name as an impediment to their goal.
The brewery's not taking this idly and not going away quietly. Hansen Beverage Company have the deeper pockets, so there's no way the brewery can win even though every lawyer is telling them there's no case.
It's way past time to send a message to corporations that the law cannot be abused to sue the just and law-abiding out of business. It's way past time to tell them this with the only voice to which they'll listen. The only thing they listen to is money changing hands. It's time to let them hear the sound of your money changing into hands other than theirs.
It's time to boycott Monster Energy and every brand of drink sold by Hansen Beverage Company.
Get the word out.
