
The Los Angeles Times is reporting that Warner Bros. is suing local wizardry shop Whimsic Alley for trademark infringement related to ‘Harry Potter’ merchandise. Warner Bros. controls the ‘Harry Potter’ brand, worth approximately $15 Billion. ‘Harry Potter’ became a cultural phenomenon after British author J.K. Rowling wrote a series of 7 fantasy novels between 1997-2007 and Warner Bros. produced the 8-part film series.
According to the LA Times…
The suit filed in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles seeks to stop Whimsic Alley owner Stanley Goldin from selling goods that it says infringe on the studio’s “Harry Potter” trademarks, and seeks unspecified monetary damages. A trial is set for January.
The store has been on the Miracle Mile (at 5464 1/2 Wilshire Boulevard) since 2010 and is a meeting spot for Harry Potter fans from near and far. Supporters of the shop suggest that it is a celebration of all things related to wizardry, including licensed ‘Harry Potter’ items.
Read more:
LA Times – Warner Bros. Sues ‘Harry Potter’-Themed Store Whimsic Alley
Website – Whimsic Alley