Small Business Prevails in Trademark Dispute with Hugo Boss over “Hype Boss”

Jupiter, FL – July 14, 2025 – Qwoted Newswire – Meyer Lucas Media LLC, the parent company of Hype Boss, a marketing and creative agency based in Jupiter, Florida, has announced that it has successfully defended its trademark filing against the international fashion conglomerate, Hugo Boss AG. The resolution follows Hugo Boss’ formal withdrawal of Opposition No. 91295262 before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB).

The dispute centered on Meyer Lucas Media’s trademark application for the mark HYPE BOSS, initially filed on November 6, 2023. In early 2024, Hugo Boss AG filed a legal opposition, citing concerns over the use of the word “Boss.” This action was consistent with Hugo Boss’s previous enforcement efforts regarding the use of “Boss” in brand names, which previously targeted companies such as Girlboss, Bossy Cosmetics, Boss Brewing, and others over the use of “Boss” in brand names. Its dispute with Bossy Cosmetics is still ongoing.

Rather than back down, Hype Boss founder Holly Meyer Lucas enlisted Patricia M. Flanagan, a trademark attorney at Shutts & Bowen LLP, to represent the company in the opposition proceeding. Following strategic legal actions taken in the discovery period, including noticing an intent to depose Hugo Boss’ disclosed witnesses (which included an in-house attorney), Hugo Boss agreed to withdraw its opposition.

“Cases like this are common among small businesses,” said Holly Meyer Lucas, owner of Meyer Lucas Media LLC. “This was about ensuring our ability to continue operating under our chosen brand name. We didn’t back down, but so many businesses like mine have to. We are pleased with the resolution and grateful for the support we received.”

“This resolution showcases Hype Boss’s strength and determination in protecting and defending its brand,” added Patricia M. Flanagan, trademark attorney with Shutts & Bowen. “With strategic legal guidance, it stood firm against opposition, achieving a positive outcome. We are proud to support Hype Boss as it continues to build its brand with confidence and success.”

Under the terms of the Settlement Agreement, Meyer Lucas Media LLC agreed to amend its trademark application to further clarify the scope of its services in Classes 35 and 41, including PR consultancy, brand development, and media coaching. Hugo Boss provided formal consent to the amended application and withdrew its opposition with prejudice.

This resolution represents a positive outcome for small business owners navigating intellectual property challenges.

“This isn’t just about my trademark,” Meyer Lucas added. “It’s about ensuring that small businesses can protect and maintain their brand identities when they are up against major brands with more financial or legal resources. We encourage other founders who have faced similar challenges to share their experiences.”

Meyer Lucas invites other entrepreneurs who have encountered similar situations to reach out and share their stories.