Big Tobacco companies are engaging in a trademark war against cannabis companies and celebrities, making outrageous claims that pre-rolled cones, organic hemp papers, and other rolling paper staples amount to paraphernalia intended for use with marijuana. Lawsuits have been filed against competitors like RAW over their claims that their papers are made in Spain, with Republic seeking to invalidate RAW’s trademark using arguments like the cones being developed specifically to hold marijuana. Meanwhile, Kool menthol cigarette maker ITG has sued Bloom Brands, claiming trademark infringement over the interlocking “O” design of their logos. Such lawsuits may have multiple motives in an attempt to take out competitors. The article argues that Big Tobacco’s lawsuits could signal an attempt to buy their way into the cannabis industry, and could have major implications for the future of the industry.
