Case Explained: In re MARINI Y COMPANIA, S.A

Court: United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit Filed: 2026-07-01 The Federal Circuit affirmed the United States Trademark Trial and Appeal Board’s decision refusing registration of Marini y Compañía, S.A.’s “MON AMI” marks for edible pet treats due to a likelihood of confusion with the previously registered mark “AMÌ.” The court applied the substantial evidence standard of review to the Board’s factual findings regarding the first *DuPont* factor, which assesses the similarity of marks in their entireties as to appearance, sound, connotation, and commercial impression. The court held that the Board’s determination was supported by substantial evidence because consumers may pronounce a mark differently than intended by the brand owner, rendering the grave accent on “AMÌ” insufficient to distinguish it from “MON AMI,” and because the word “MON” merely reinforced the shared meaning of “friend” in both marks rather than creating a distinct commercial impression. As a result, the Board’s refusal stands, and Marini is precluded from registering the applied-for marks on the principal register. Do It For The Case Law is a news reporting service. Nothing in this episode constitutes legal advice.