T.I. Akoo Clothing Line Accused of Trademark Infringement – Rapper T.I. is being accused of illegally using the name of his Akoo Clothing line.
Akoo International is claiming trademark infringement in their complaint against T.I. and Akoo. According to the lawsuit, Akoo International has held the trademark for “Akoo” for years, reports AllHipHop.com.
The company bills itself as the world’s largest social music television network, which delivers video programming to over 86 million monthly customers, via the Internet, shopping malls and universities in over 30 states. Akoo’s International’s technology allows viewers to interact with programming on large screen, networked HDTV’s, using their mobile phones.
“Akoo has been recognized as a leading social TV platform for connecting brand advertisers with millions of our engaged viewers,” said Akoo CEO Niko Drakoulis. “Our primary obligation and goal is to prevent confusion among our consumers, which is among the most basic objectives of trademark law. At the same time, Akoo has invested nearly a decade of effort and substantial capital to deploy its network and will do everything in its power to protect its brand.”
Akoo International believes T.I., born Clifford Harris, has mislead, deceived and confused consumers and potential clients.
The company also took action to defend their Akoo trademark when T.I.’s clothing line ran a controversial billboard ad in Newark, NJ, which was condemned by residents and Mayor Cory Booker. The complaints resulted in the removal of the racy billboard.
