Iconic Toronto Bar’s Blue Jays Watch Party Promotion on Instagram Met with Cease-and-Desist Letter
An iconic dive bar in Toronto, known for its vibrant atmosphere and live music, is facing legal challenges over promotional activities. Sneaky Dee’s recently received a cease-and-desist letter from the Toronto Blue Jays regarding a promotional Instagram post.
Cease-and-Desist Letter Details
The Toronto Blue Jays claim that Sneaky Dee’s Instagram post, which featured images of players and the team’s logo, infringed upon their trademark rights. The post was intended to promote watch parties for the American League Championship Series (ALCS) playoffs, specifically for Game 7.
Promotion Highlights
- Shared on Monday, the post encouraged fans to watch the game at the bar.
- It highlighted half-priced food and drink specials.
Response from Sneaky Dee’s
George Diamantouros, the general manager of Sneaky Dee’s, indicated that the intention was to support the Blue Jays, not to infringe on their rights. He expressed dismay at receiving the letter, initially thinking it was a prank. Diamantouros stated, “We just want our people to know we support the Jays.”
Blue Jays Organization’s Statement
The Blue Jays acknowledged the support from local businesses in their promotional efforts but emphasized that only official club partners can use team logos and player images. This aligns with standard practices in sports marketing.
Impact on the Community
Sneaky Dee’s decided to remove the post immediately to avoid escalating the situation. They publicly shared the cease-and-desist letter to caution other small businesses against similar promotional activities.
Business Resilience Post-Pandemic
Diamantouros reflected on the positive impact of the Blue Jays’ playoff run, noting that it has generated excitement for local businesses still recovering from the pandemic. He argued that their events do not compete with the team’s official channels but instead enhance community engagement.
Final Thoughts
The situation highlights the delicate balance between enthusiastic fan promotions and legal trademark regulations. As businesses navigate these waters, caution is advised to avoid potential legal repercussions.
