South London cabbie brothers in battle with US firm over use of 'Brixton' in their business name

A South London community business, run by black cab-driving brothers, is facing legal threats from a Californian lifestyle brand over the use of 'Brixton' in its name. The family-owned Brixton Street Wear was first approached by Brixton LLC about four years ago, demanding a name change due to similarity.

Despite initially dismissing this request, brothers Pete Adams and Daniel O'Connell were recently contacted again by lawyers representing Brixton LLC, insisting on a name change. The brothers, who reinvest a significant portion of their profits into their local community, view these threats as "word appropriation". They fear they may have to comply as they cannot afford a potentially expensive legal fight.

Mr Adams, 46, expressed his frustration, pointing out that the California-based brand has no connections with Brixton, while he and his brother are "Brixton born-and-bred". Their brand, established in 2017, enjoys popularity among sports and TV stars, musicians, and influencers, including ex-Arsenal and England footballer Ian Wright and American Hip Hop star Chuck D from Public Enemy.

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Recalling their initial interaction with Brixton LLC, Mr Adams, a father of two, said: "They messaged us basically saying, 'Stop what you are doing', but we told them we're trademarked." He described their first correspondence as cold-hearted, with all subsequent communications coming through solicitors.

Mr Adams said: "We put in to do another trademark and they opposed it. About a month ago they have gone to revoke our trademark, which we've had for around five years. We haven't got the money to constantly fight them. It's just all become too much."

He said that the US company is currently 'trying to stop everything [they] do' and ultimately wants the brothers to change their business name. Describing the ordeal as 'word appropriation', Mr Adams said: "[Brixton LLC] have got deep pockets, but it's just me and my brother and we go to work as cab drivers after working at the shop... It's like David vs Goliath. They don't represent Brixton. They're Californian and so far from us - we're Brixton born and bred."

Mr Adams, who designed the company's logo for his 47 year old brother Mr O'Connel's birthday, said their business could face closure if Brixton LLC decides to pursue their legal objections. Brixton Street Wear, known for its regular free community open mic and stand-up comedy nights, has become a cornerstone in the local area, often donating profits to a variety of noble causes including mental health charities and soup kitchens.

The shop is viewed as a 'community hub' by many and lives by its motto 'Definition of Community'. "We are not a charity; obviously we have running costs and that," said Mr Adams: "We started a GoFundMe page [to help cover legal costs], but I would rather give that money to community projects. If [Brixton LLC] go full on with things, we have not got the money to fight them. What's the end goal for them if they carry on pushing us? We're just a little business that helps our community. They're bullies, really. It's nuts."

Support poured in from the neighbourhood yesterday, with many dropping by the premises to express their solidarity. Ronke, a supporter of the local enterprise, stated adamantly: "Brixton is Brixton," and emphasised the need to communicate the historical significance of Brixton to [Brixton LLC]. "We want Brixton as a trademark here. Why don't they attack other places, like Brixton House? This is Brixton. This is the legacy of South London. We want more businesses coming up representing Brixton."

Max, who regularly performs at the store with his stand-up comedy act, spoke out against the demands imposed by the American brand Brixton LLC, noting with dismay: "It's disheartening. It shows the difference in society at the moment between the elite and rich and the poor, it's terrible. We've been inspired by how these guys have set up, what they have done, their love and attention for the community."

Brixton LLC was approached for comment but have so far not responded.

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