Oop! Companies have been throwing out lawsuits left and right, and now a popular urban brand company has been hit with one. According to TMZ, Mattel, the company that owns the Barbie trademark, is suing Rap Snacks over its Nicki Minaj-themed chips. The chips named ‘Barbie-Que,’ a play on the ‘Barbie’ title Nicki Minaj refers to herself as were teased on the company’s Instagram page on June 30th.
While the brand that sells drinks, cups of noodles, and more never launched a release date, Mattel claims Rap Snacks “made the deliberate and calculated choice to launch a new product line using Mattel’s famous BARBIE trademark.” The company claims that although they did not consent to the release of the chips, they were willing to agree with Rap Snacks. Mattel claims Rap Snacks never responded, “thereby forcing Mattel to bring this lawsuit as a last resort to protect its rights and prevent further consumer confusion.”
In a report from Yahoo News, the lawsuit states, “The association is so evident that upon seeing the packaging, representatives for Defendant’s celebrity partner queried whether Rap Snacks had obtained permission from Mattel. Indeed, Rap Snacks never requested or received any such permission.” Along with the chip being discontinued, Mattel is also seeking damages.
Currently, Rap Snacks hasn’t spoken out about the lawsuit, but in an initial press release announcing the chips, he said, “Nicki Minaj is unquestionably one of the most disruptive forces in the history of rap. You’re talking about a woman who rewrote the rules of hip hop culture and happens to be a phenomenal entrepreneur, as well.” He continued, “It just makes sense that as a brand disrupting the snack industry, we align to push the bar even further. This is the beginning of a legendary partnership.”
While news of the lawsuit may have shocked the Barbz, they can be assured that the Queen won’t be affected. Nicki Minaj isn’t named in the suit! Roomies, what are your thoughts on this one?
