KFC has filed a lawsuit against Nashville Fried Chicken in the Delhi High Court, claiming that the sale of similar products could mislead the public into believing that the two brands are connected.
New Delhi: Fast food giant Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) has filed a petition with the Delhi High Court challenging Massive Restaurants Private Limited’s attempt to trademark “Nashville Fried Chicken.”
In this context, KFC has submitted both a rectification application and a lawsuit against Massive Restaurants, which operates Nashville Fried Chicken (NFC) along with several other restaurant chains, such as Farzi Cafe, Pa Pa Ya, Masala Library, and Louis Burger.
Justice Amit Bansal, who presided over the case, issued a notice regarding the petition and instructed Massive Restaurants to submit a response.
The case is scheduled for a hearing on May 28.
Advocate Shwetashree Majumder, representing KFC, argued that NFC is deceptively similar to KFC’s brand and could confuse consumers. According to Majumder, NFC offers similar products, specifically fried chicken, which may lead the public to believe there is a connection between the two brands.
Majumder referenced previous court orders that prohibited brands from using “FC” for Fried Chicken. In 2024, the Delhi High Court had restrained “Ali Fried Chicken” from operating on KFC’s request, directing the owner to change the name.
Furthermore, Majumder asserted that “KFC” warranted extra protection as a “well-known trademark.”
According to Section 2(1)(zg) of the Trade Marks Act, 1999, a “well-known trademark” is recognized by a substantial segment of the public, and its unauthorized use on unrelated goods or services could lead to confusion. KFC qualifies as such due to its long-standing presence, extensive advertising, and strong brand recall.
Since its entry into India in 1995, KFC has established over 600 outlets nationwide, achieving significant brand visibility. Its recognizable red-and-white branding, the image of Colonel Sanders, and the slogan “finger lickin’ good” are well-known among Indian consumers, particularly in urban areas.
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The brand has also tailored its menu to align with Indian tastes, further boosting its popularity.
KFC holds numerous registered trademarks in India that cover a variety of goods and services.
Although there is no formal declaration from the Registrar designating KFC as a “well-known trademark” under Section 11(6), Indian courts have frequently recognized globally renowned brands like KFC as inherently well-known in enforcement actions, especially in cases of passing off or infringement.
Case Title: KFC Vs Massive Restaurants