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Buc-ee’s chain draws outcry in Ohio for launching fight over a mini mart’s beaver logo
The dispute has sparked boycotts, online backlash and $69,000 in fundraising for the family-owned store, supporters said.
In late July, Texas-based convenience chain Buc-ee's sued Beaver's Mini Mart in Beavercreek, Ohio, arguing the small business's beaver logo too closely resembles its own trademarked mascot.
Seeking to protect its brand, the company alleges it identified a trademark conflict after owner Vic Boparai registered the name on October 23, four months after Buc-ee's broke ground near Dayton.
Supporters have rallied behind Beaver's Mini Mart, raising at least $69,000 via a GoFundMe campaign while other local shops temporarily altered their logos to include beavers in solidarity.
Beavercreek City Council passed a resolution on August 10 making the beaver an official part of city history, while Republican Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine described the lawsuit as "absurd."
British comedian John Oliver recently highlighted Buc-ee's history of trademark litigation against woodland creatures, as the company continues to seek a federal jury trial in Ohio.