Real Estate Companies At Odds Over Similar Marks
FARGO, N.D. (AP) — An ongoing spat between North Dakota and Minnesota real estate companies with similar names and signage has wound up in federal court.
The dispute involves The Real Estate Company Inc., of Dickinson, North Dakota, and The Real Estate Company of Detroit Lakes Inc., of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota.
The controversy began when the Detroit Lakes company asked permission to allow one of its agents to work under the name in the Fargo area. The Dickinson company rejected the request and further demanded that its counterpart change its logo.
The lawsuit accuses the Detroit Lakes company of trademark infringement, unfair competition and breach of contract. The Detroit Lakes company says the plaintiffs have no basis for their complaint and the suit should be thrown out.
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