The University of Maryland has sent a cease‑and‑desist letter to Colorado cannabis firm Terps USA, demanding it stop using the “Terps” name and logo within 30 days. UMD says the branding infringes its trademark and threatens legal action if compliance isn’t met.
Company Responds
The university’s legal team gave the company a 30‑day deadline to halt all use of “Terps” and to provide proof of compliance. Terps USA owner Ken Fry said he was “dumbfounded” and has no intention of abandoning the name. He argued that “Terps” refers to terpenes, the plant compounds that shape cannabis flavor, aroma and effect, and has nothing to do with the university.
While Fry acknowledges the two logos look similar, he insists the resemblance is coincidental and denies any intent to copy or profit from UMD’s brand. He says the university’s demands go beyond the logo, also asking for the surrender of its federal trademark and a full name change. Fry says he will discuss a logo tweak but will not give up the company name, declaring, “It’s ours. You’re not taking our name because you don’t like it.”
Terps USA’s attorneys have replied to the cease‑and‑desist, but the university has yet to respond.
Frontpage photo: © Stefano Beber | Dreamstime
Source: yahoo.com
Publication date: Thu 3 Sep 2026
