Under what laws is the Coffee News logo protectable?

According to the 2025 Coffee News Franchise Disclosure Document, the Coffee News logo has been consistently used for at least 20 years in the U.S. and globally. As a result, it is protectable under applicable federal trademark laws and common laws. Additionally, the Coffee News periodical format is protected as Coffee News trade dress under the trademark laws through its actual and continuous use over at least 24 years.

It's important to note that while franchisees are licensed to use the Coffee News name and format, all rights and interests in the Coffee News name and format are reserved by 2703203, Manitoba, Inc. and Coffee News, except for the specific license granted in the franchise agreement. Franchisees acknowledge the goodwill associated with the Coffee News name and format belongs to Coffee News and 2703203, Manitoba, Inc., and agree not to take any action that would jeopardize or diminish those rights.

Coffee News also states that franchisees have the right to use trademarks during any dispute between Coffee News and 2703203, Manitoba, Inc. Franchisees must notify Coffee News of any infringements or challenges to the use of the Coffee News name or format and must not communicate with anyone other than Coffee News, 2703203, Manitoba, Inc., and its counsel regarding such matters. 2703203, Manitoba, Inc. has sole discretion to take action and control any litigation related to infringement or challenges, with any benefits from such actions accruing to 2703203, Manitoba, Inc. Franchisees are required to assist in protecting Coffee News's interests as required by counsel.