32Red Casino wins trademark court case

After two years of proceedings, the Supreme Court of England and Wales ruled in favour of 32Red PLC in a trademark dispute between the English bookmaker William Hill who owns 32Vegas online casino and the 32Red Casino brand.

In its ruling the court said that the use of 32V and 32Vegas is an infringement on the EC registered trademark of 32Red. The court said that the advertising of the 32 Vegas Casino by William Hill is too similar to the advertising of 32Red and could cause confusion about the internet gambling brand among customers. The Supreme Court also ruled that William Hill’s V32 casino gambling trademark caused infringement damages to the ‘distinctive character and reputation “of 32Red’s trademarks. The court dismissed the claim from William Hill, who claimed the rights of the trademark of 32Red in England and EC are not valid. The ruling comes after nearly two years of proceedings between William Hill and 32Red.

The court has yet ruled on the consequences of the ruling, although 32Red said they will ask for an injunction to prevent the use of 32Vegas brands in the EU, they will also ask for reimbursement of significant legal fees, and that an investigation takes place into the extent of the loss or profit arising from any infringement of 32Red casino gambling trademarks. Ed Ware, CEO of 32Red said: We are naturally delighted that the High Court has upheld our claims. This judgement firmly establishes our Intellectual Property Rights and should deter other operators from infringing our trade marks. As highlighted by the judge, we have an excellent reputation as an online casino operator and a strong brand, these are extremely valuable assets in any marketplace.”

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