Key facts
- Plaintiff
- Trolley Square Ventures
- Defendants
- Trolley Corners Center, Trolley Place Owners Association
- Damages sought
- Up to $25 million
- First lawsuit filed
- July 23
- Second lawsuit filed
- Friday (August 1, 2026)
- Trolley Corners name dates to
- 1974
Background
Salt Lake City's trolley barns, dating to the late 1800s, were converted into the Trolley Square shopping mall in the 1970s. The name has been in use for decades, and other nearby developments also carry 'Trolley' in their names.
Trolley Square Ventures, the owner of Trolley Square, filed two lawsuits in U.S. District Court against Trolley Corners Center and Trolley Place Owners Association, alleging trademark infringement through names, advertising, and other elements.
Current situation
The first lawsuit, filed July 23, targets Trolley Corners at 515 S. 700 East. The center has used its name since 2006, but the name dates back to 1974, two years after Trolley Square opened. Trolley Corners Theatre operated there from 1977 to 2004, hosting the first Utah/U.S. Film Festival, which became Sundance.
Trolley Square claims Trolley Corners began using signage in 2010 to profit from its goodwill and that online confusion links the two, citing negative reviews mentioning Trolley Square. It seeks injunctions and up to $25 million in damages.
The second lawsuit, filed Friday, targets Trolley Place, a condominium at approximately 524 S. 500 East, alleging its water tower image is 'confusingly similar' to Trolley Square's. It seeks injunctions and payment of gains from alleged unfair competition.
| Entity | Location | Name since | Lawsuit filed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trolley Square | 600 East/700 East, 500 South | 1970s (opened) | N/A |
| Trolley Corners Center | 515 S. 700 East | 2006 (current owners), name since 1974 | July 23 |
| Trolley Place | Approx. 524 S. 500 East | Not specified | Friday |
Impacts
If successful, the lawsuits could force Trolley Corners and Trolley Place to change names or signage, potentially affecting businesses and residents who identify with those names. Trolley Corners tenants might face rebranding costs, while Trolley Place homeowners could see HOA fees rise.
The outcome could also set a precedent for other properties using 'Trolley' in their names, possibly leading to licensing agreements or name changes. The dispute may affect consumer perception and local historical identity.
Future outlook
Scenario analysis: The possibilities below are not certain predictions.
If the court grants preliminary injunctions, the defendants may be required to alter their branding while the case proceeds. If Trolley Square wins, it could receive damages and enforce trademark rights, potentially affecting other 'Trolley' named entities.
If the defendants prevail, Trolley Square's claims could be dismissed, allowing continued use of the names. The case may also prompt negotiations or settlements, though no schedule has been set for either lawsuit.
Source: ksl.com
