McDonald’s wins EU trademark for ‘Mac’ and ‘Mc’

BRUSSELS — McDonald’s has won a case in a European court that could prevent another company from using any combination of the terms “Mac” or “Mc” to sell food or drinks.

The ruling came after the U.S. fast-food giant tried to stop Singapore’s Future Enterprises from registering MACCOFFEE as a European Union trade mark.

In an appeal by Future Enterprises, the General Court ruled Tuesday that the use of MACCOFFEE would take unfair advantage of the reputation of McDonald’s trademarks.

The court believes the general public sees “Mac” and “Mc” as almost the same thing and could mentally link the products.

It acknowledged that the food and drink may be different but that all are likely to be found in fast-food restaurants.