bob,
Here is what I find suspicious. The first two articles have sprinklings of quotes from the letter. Where's the rest of it? Has it been taken out of context? Read the quote from Redwell's attorney, "We've managed to negotiate a possible settlement which is now on the table, so it's a good commercial solution for both parties.
"Red Bull know that Redwell won't venture into their markets and Redwell will be able to use their trademarks without fear of further legal action."
"Settlement" "commercial solution" "won't venture into their markets...."
Then read the quote from Redbull, "Red Bull has long been willing to allow Redwell to maintain its mark for beer so long as they do not use it for energy drinks."
It sounds to me that there was some vagueness on Redwell's intent somewhere along the line. But just like everyone, I'm speculating. I just happen to be speculating from the wrong side as it were.
So, this changes nothing about my opinion of Redbull. The only fact presented was that Redbull sent a letter to another company reiterating it's trademark.
Here's a scenario:
Dear Bob,
It has come to our attention that you have filed a trademark application for "McStuff." You should be aware that McXYZ is trademarked by us. We're happy to see that you are presently marketing weigh loss/fitness supplements using this name. Should you venture into the fast food industry, we will have no choice but to take legal action against you for trademark infringement.
Love,
McDonalds Inc.
Media report: Bob Mcstuff received a mean-spirited letter from a big, evil corporation that makes a ****-ton of money so they must be picking on him. In part it says, "We will ... take legal action against you for trademark infringement."
Like I said, let's see that letter. Redwell had no reservations about making parts of it public. They could very well have a master spin-doctor or someone inspired that used this as some really great "free" publicity. I'd' never heard of them and likely never would have. If I had by chance heard/read their name it is highly likely I would not have remembered them without the drama and the tie in to Redbull's name.
Now, who's going to be the first dick to mix Redwell and Redbull, give it a name and claim it tastes good? I vote to call it "The Dr. Evil." or "The Well (b)red Bull." Heck, why not make it a red and tan?
