McDonald's McHeadache: Loses Malaysian McTrademark Suit

As all travelers know, finding a fake McDonald's in some international backwater is charming. And, really, those trademark breaches are probably doing the brand more good than harm. But dilution in richer markets, where it actually competes, is something Micky D's finds bracing and worrisome.

Case in point: McDonald's has lost an eight-year (!) trademark battle against Malaysian restaurant (serving Indian food) McCurry, aimed at preventing its use of the "Mc" prefix. Sri Devi Nair, McCurry's lawyer, sums up why this ruling is so dangerous to the McDonald's brand: "This is a precedent for everyone to follow." Continue reading...