Autozone, Inc v. Strick, Michael

Plaintiffs AutoZone, Inc., and AutoZone Parts, Inc. (collectively “AutoZone”), who together comprise one of the largest retailers of automotive parts in the United States, sued Michael Strick, Strick Enterprises, Inc., and Strick, Inc. (collectively “Strick”) alleging that Strick’s use of the trade names and service marks “Oil Zone” and “Wash Zone” in his automotive services businesses violated the Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1051 et seq., and Illinois statutory and common law. At the summary judgment stage, the district court held that AutoZone had failed to produce sufficient evidence to show a likelihood of confusion between AutoZone’s and Strick’s marks as a matter of law and dismissed AutoZone’s suit. AutoZone appeals, and we reverse.

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