George Calombaris in trouble for his cheeky St Kat's dessert
Franchised Food Company's (FFCo) iconic ice cream brand, Mr Whippy, is taking legal action against celebrity chef and Masterchef judge, George Calombaris for an alleged trademark infringement at his St Katherine's restaurant.
The Melbourne restaurant has a dessert on its menu titled 'Mrs Whippi' and Franchised Food Company's owner Stan Gordon told the Daily Telegraph it's time to stand up for the brand, which he took over in 2000.
"We plan to enforce our rights. This is Australia and I need to protect my brand," he said.
The franchise allegedly sent Calombaris a letter raising its concerns, after which the restaurant changed the name of the dessert from 'Mr Whippy' to 'Mrs Whippi', and also sent a response to Gordon arguing that the original Mr Whippy product has no reputation in the restaurant scene.
It seems this wasn't enough however, with Gordon arguing Mr Whippy is victim of a trademark infringement and will seek unspecified damages in the Federal Magistrate's Court.
Calombaris doesn't seem too bothered by the legal action, however, tweeting "My solicitor said that I look good in a wig and gown which is good as I am always prepared to fight for my integrity." and "Next time you're at @StKatsKew try our soft serve ice cream, you'll enjoy it."
Calombaris and Gordon were both unavailable for comment before publication.