Imagine the first morning sunlight streaming into your yard while your chicken coop door opens automatically, welcoming the cheerful clucking of your flock. As evening falls, the door closes again, keeping your chickens safe and warm. This idyllic rural lifestyle, made possible by the RUN-CHICKEN automatic chicken coop door, now faces intellectual property challenges that serve as a cautionary tale for cross-border e-commerce sellers.
Case Overview: RUN-CHICKEN Trademark and Copyright Lawsuit
The RUN-CHICKEN automatic coop door has gained popularity among poultry keepers for its convenience and smart features. However, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York recently accepted a trademark and copyright infringement case (Case No. 23-cv-774) filed by THOITS LAW on behalf of RUN-TIGER LLC, doing business as RUN-CHICKEN. This legal action puts sellers offering similar products at risk of account freezes.
Case Details:
- Filing Date: January 30, 2023
- Case Number: 23-cv-774
- Plaintiff: RUN-TIGER LLC, d/b/a RUN-CHICKEN
- Legal Representation: THOITS LAW
- Jurisdiction: New York, USA
RUN-CHICKEN: Modern Poultry Keeping Solution
RUN-CHICKEN, a brand under Slovenia-based Run-Tiger LLC, specializes in utility product development. Their battery-powered automatic coop door features timer and light sensor technology that operates without manual intervention, adapting to both scheduled times and ambient light conditions.
Intellectual Property Protection Measures
The brand holds multiple registered trademarks, including:
- Figurative trademark
- Wordmark "RUN-CHICKEN"
- Class 06 registration covering metal coop doors and automatic metal coop doors
Additionally, RUN-CHICKEN maintains copyright protection for product images. While the specific images involved in litigation remain undisclosed, unauthorized use of any visuals from official channels may constitute infringement.
Potential Risks and Mitigation Strategies
Sellers potentially infringing on RUN-CHICKEN's intellectual property may face:
- Account suspension on e-commerce platforms
- Legal action seeking damages
- Reputation damage affecting long-term business prospects
Recommended mitigation approaches include:
- Conducting thorough product and listing audits
- Promptly removing potentially infringing content
- Exploring settlement options when notified
The settlement process typically involves legal representation, negotiation, agreement execution, and eventual account restoration following court dismissal.
This case underscores the critical importance of intellectual property compliance in cross-border e-commerce operations. Industry participants must maintain vigilance regarding trademark and copyright protections to operate within legal boundaries and maintain marketplace integrity.