You might be able to go for breakfast, but if you’re eating Haulin’ Oats, a certain celebrated pop-soul duo just can’t go for that.
No can do.
Hall & Oates have reportedly taken legal action against a Brooklyn company that sells a granola-based cereal and snack called Haulin’ Oats. Early Bird are the makers of “wholesome and nourishing small batch granola,” and will now have a day in Brooklyn federal court. Reps for the top-sellng, Philadelphia-born music duo claim its trademark has been infringed upon by a “phonetic play on Daryl Hall and John Oates’ well-known brand name,” according to the Guardian.
“The name and mark Haulin’ Oats is an obvious play upon Plaintiff’s well-known Hall & Oates mark, and was selected by defendant in an effort to trade off of the fame and notoriety associated with the artist’s and plaintiff’s well-known marks,” reads the report.
A three-pack go Haulin’ Oates will set you back $27, and 12-packs are for sale priced at $104.
The suit also notes that this isn’t the first time someone tried to capitalize on punning up John Oates’ surname. Meanwhile, Hall & Oates will play the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom on March 29.
