Small Business Owner Ben McDonald Resolves Trademark Dispute with Hugo Boss

In a recent resolution of a trademark dispute, Ben McDonald, a 44-year-old entrepreneur from Bootle, has successfully negotiated with the international fashion brand Hugo Boss regarding his business name, 'Boss Pets.' Initially, McDonald faced significant challenges when he received a legal notice from Hugo Boss demanding that he cease using the name, claiming it infringed upon their trademark rights.

McDonald, who transitioned from engineering to entrepreneurship, founded Boss Pets in August 2024, aiming to create a memorable and catchy brand name. However, just days before he launched his business in June 2025, he was informed by Hugo Boss that his trademark application, filed on June 2, 2025, was in conflict with their established trademarks. According to a statement from Hugo Boss, they became aware of the potential overlap with their own trademark rights shortly after McDonald filed for registration.

Following the initial alarm, McDonald engaged legal representation from Barrister Francis McEntegart of MC Legal. The legal team communicated with Hugo Boss, which ultimately led to a compromise. McDonald has been permitted to continue using the name 'Boss Pets,' under the condition that he does not offer pet clothing or accessories that could be confused with Hugo Boss’s product lines. This resolution marks a significant victory for small business owners who often feel overshadowed by larger corporations.

In an interview, McDonald expressed relief at the outcome, stating, "It was a horrendous feeling receiving the email from Hugo Boss. I began questioning everything, thinking I couldn't take on such a large brand. However, thanks to Francis, I am free to use the name, which feels like a huge win for small businesses. I’m not bitter; I still enjoy my Hugo Boss products." McDonald's experience underscores the challenges faced by small businesses in navigating trademark law and the importance of legal counsel in such disputes.

Hugo Boss, in its communications, emphasized that trademark law necessitates brands to monitor their intellectual property actively. A spokesperson for the company reiterated, "Hugo Boss only approaches third parties where an overlap with our existing trademark rights occurs, and as a matter of principle, we always seek dialogue in favor of an amicable solution for both sides." This statement reflects the brand's ongoing commitment to protecting its trademarks while also fostering cooperative relationships with smaller enterprises.

The dispute and subsequent resolution not only highlight the complexities of trademark law but also the resilience of small business owners like McDonald. As the market continues to evolve, such cases may serve as precedents for future trademark discussions, emphasizing the need for clear communication and negotiation between large corporations and small business entities. McDonald’s situation illustrates the critical balance between protecting brand identity and supporting the entrepreneurial spirit that drives local economies.

Moving forward, McDonald plans to expand his product offerings while adhering to the agreed-upon terms with Hugo Boss. His story serves as an inspiration to other small business owners navigating similar challenges in a competitive marketplace. With his trademark secured, McDonald is optimistic about the future of Boss Pets and its place within the pet product industry.