Thai Street Vendor Sued Over Starbucks Logo Lookalike

In Bangkok, a small mobile coffee vendor now finds itself at the center of an international intellectual property dispute. The issue? Its logo looks too much like Starbucks’ iconic green-and-white siren. The case, brought by Starbucks, is set to be heard in a Thai court on November 4.

The short answer: Yes, the vendor’s circular green-and-white logo was deemed similar enough to Starbucks’ registered trademark that the company decided to sue. The case goes to court on November 4, and while the vendor claims his design features an elderly figure—not the siren—the legal battle is already drawing attention.

What Happened With the Starbung Coffee Cart?

The vendor, Danon, operates a mobile coffee cart in Bangkok’s urban area under the name Starbung. His cart uses a green-and-white circular logo, which Starbucks argues is too close to its own well-known emblem. While Danon says the design was created by a friend and shows an older person, not the Starbucks siren, the similarity has triggered legal action.

Why Is Starbucks Taking Legal Action?

Starbucks is protective of its brand identity, particularly the iconic green-and-white logo that consumers worldwide associate with its coffee. The company views any visual resemblance—especially in a commercial setting—as a potential threat to its trademark. In this case, the use of a circular green-and-white design on a mobile coffee cart was enough for Starbucks to pursue legal remedies through the Thai courts.

How Has the Vendor Responded?

Danon claims his logo is different because it depicts an elderly man rather than the Starbucks mermaid. He also noted an unexpected side effect of the lawsuit: increased publicity. Since the news broke, his daily coffee sales have reportedly jumped to around 150 cups per day.

What Does This Mean for Street Vendors and Branding?

This case highlights the risks small businesses take when using logos that resemble those of major global brands. Even when intent isn’t to deceive, visual similarity in branding—especially involving distinctive colors and shapes—can lead to legal challenges. For street vendors, especially in tourist-heavy areas, the case serves as a reminder about the importance of original or licensed branding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the name of the vendor being sued by Starbucks?

The vendor is named Danon, and he operates a mobile coffee cart in Bangkok called Starbung. His coffee stand uses a green-and-white circular logo that resembles Starbucks'.

What does the Starbung logo look like?

The Starbung logo is a green-and-white circular design. Danon claims it features an image of an elderly person, but Starbucks argues that it closely resembles its own siren logo.

When is the court date for the Starbucks logo lawsuit in Thailand?

The case is scheduled to be heard in a Thai court on November 4.

Has the lawsuit affected the vendor’s coffee sales?

Yes, Danon reports that since the lawsuit became public, his coffee sales have increased significantly, with around 150 cups sold per day.

Is the Starbung logo the same as Starbucks’?

Danon says his logo shows an old person, not the Starbucks siren. However, Starbucks contends that the overall design—particularly the circular green-and-white elements—is too similar to its own trademarked logo.

Why did Starbucks decide to sue the Bangkok coffee vendor?

Starbucks is protecting its brand identity. The company believes the Starbung logo could confuse customers and dilute its trademark, especially given the visual similarities in color and shape.

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