Frank's, Ford settle dispute The auto supply company claimed
that they've been using the catchphrase "We Speak Car" since 2003. The
suit alleged that a Ford advertising campaign that started in early
March uses the phrase to promote its 2010 Ford Fusion and Fusion hybrid
cars.
In an order Friday, U.S. District Judge Arthur J. Schwab closed the case. The order notes that the parties "agreed to an amicable resolution of this matter."
The order did not include what the resolution entailed, but noted Schwab will retain jurisdiction if either side fails to execute the settlement agreement.
Frank's Auto, which has sold automobile parts since 1938, has seven locations in Pennsylvania, including the original store on Beeson Boulevard in Uniontown.
The suit had claimed that the retailer has been using the "We Speak Car" slogan in its own ads for six years, and that Ford's use of the catchphrase could harm its business.
The suit had asked a judge to order that all of Ford's literature and advertising with the slogan on it be destroyed.
In an order Friday, U.S. District Judge Arthur J. Schwab closed the case. The order notes that the parties "agreed to an amicable resolution of this matter."
The order did not include what the resolution entailed, but noted Schwab will retain jurisdiction if either side fails to execute the settlement agreement.
Frank's Auto, which has sold automobile parts since 1938, has seven locations in Pennsylvania, including the original store on Beeson Boulevard in Uniontown.
The suit had claimed that the retailer has been using the "We Speak Car" slogan in its own ads for six years, and that Ford's use of the catchphrase could harm its business.
The suit had asked a judge to order that all of Ford's literature and advertising with the slogan on it be destroyed.