Hogs Back sues Magners over cider brand

Brewery owner Rupert Thompson said discussions had been ongoing for six months to find a resolution but after no satisfactory conclusion court proceedings had been launched this week.

Thompson said: “Hogs Back launched Hazy Hog in March 2013, a distinctively different cloudy cider. We believe the name and branding clearly indicate its distinctive character, and firmly position it as part of the established Hogs Back range. We registered the name for use on cider in Trade Mark Class 33 (for cider) to complement our other rights in the name. The brand has been well received and is growing fast.

Changes​

“When Magners subsequently launched a portable cider dispense system called Cider Hog in June 2014, using what we believe to be a similar name and graphics, we contacted them and sought to resolve this in an amicable manner, suggesting some changes to Cider Hog.

“Magners denied their mark was similar to ours and pointed out that Cider Hog has been registered in Trade Mark Class 11 (for refrigerated packaging).

“Over the past six months, we have tried to find a solution which would satisfy both parties, but without success. Regrettably, we have turned to court proceedings, but still hope that discussions may generate an acceptable resolution.”

C&C refused to comment.