LeBron James Joins Taco Bell in Fight to Free Taco Tuesday Phrase
Taco Bell and Taco Johns Settle Dispute
James' Trademark Attempt Denied, But Goal Achieved
Taco Bell and Taco Johns have settled a dispute over the trademark for the popular phrase "Taco Tuesday", freeing up the term for use by all businesses and individuals.
The dispute began in 2019 when LeBron James filed a trademark application for the term. Taco Johns, a 400-location chain that has held the trademark since 1989, opposed the application.
In 2022, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) denied James' application, ruling that "Taco Tuesday" is a generic term that cannot be trademarked.
Despite the denial, James' team said he still accomplished his goal of freeing up the phrase for public use.
"LeBron James is pleased that Taco Bell and Taco Johns have come to a resolution that will allow everyone to use the phrase 'Taco Tuesday'," James' spokesperson said.
Taco Bell, the largest Mexican-inspired fast-food chain in the Americas, has been a vocal advocate for freeing up the phrase.
"Taco Tuesday is a tradition that everyone should be able to celebrate," Taco Bell said in a statement.
James has been a vocal fan of Taco Tuesday for years, often sharing photos and videos of his family's weekly taco dinners on social media.
James' support of Taco Bell's efforts to free up the phrase is the latest example of his commitment to giving back to the community.
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