A legal dispute over the use of “bnb” is unfolding between a small Dorset bed and breakfast named bnb-side and the global short-term rental giant, Airbnb. The bnb-side, located on the Isle of Portland, was established to support the b-side arts festival financially. Since its opening in 2024, the establishment has incorporated “bnb” in its name, a term traditionally understood to mean “bed and breakfast”. However, Airbnb, a $100 billion company headquartered in San Francisco, argues that this usage infringes upon its brand.
Dispute Over Trademark Rights
Airbnb initiated legal action in May, sending several letters to bnb-side, demanding that the B&B stop using its current name. The company contends that allowing bnb-side to use “bnb” could lead to confusion among consumers, potentially damage Airbnb’s reputation, and mislead people into believing bnb-side is affiliated with Airbnb. The demand includes preventing bnb-side from even altering its name with variations like using different cases or the addition of symbols.
Potential Impacts on bnb-side
Rocca Holly-Nambi, director of bnb-side, explained that complying with Airbnb’s demands would involve significant costs, not only financial but also in terms of time from their limited volunteer workforce, to redesign promotional materials and reinvent their established identity. Holly-Nambi emphasised that success of bnb-side accounts for nearly 50% of the arts festival’s annual income of £250,000, which could be jeopardised if the case results in a name change.
Legal Commentary and Community Response
Trademark attorneys have weighed in, suggesting that Airbnb’s case might be challenging, due to the commonly understood and descriptive nature of “bnb” as an established abbreviation for “bed and breakfast”. Experts such as Craig Beaumont and Darren Meale have remarked on the improbability of a straightforward legal victory for Airbnb, given the historical and common usage of the term. Companies House records further support this perspective, listing 14 businesses in the last ten years that have successfully registered with “bnb” in their name.
The tight-knit Portland community is reacting strongly to Airbnb’s legal challenge. Cat Wightman, manager of bnb-side, expressed concern over the broader impact of Airbnb on local housing, highlighting the displacement of permanent residents by short-term rentals.
Legal Battle and Public Perception
While Airbnb continues with its legal pursuit, the bnb-side team, supported with pro bono assistance from Stevens Hewlett & Perkins, continues to fight back. They have appealed to the Intellectual Property Office, seeking a rejection of Airbnb’s opposition and coverage of legal costs. Legal experts also note the potential reputational risk for Airbnb in pursuing aggressive litigation against a community organisation, suggesting this might not align with favourable public relations.
As the case progresses, no final decision has been made yet, leaving the future of bnb-side’s branding unresolved. Airbnb has not provided any comment on the matter.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.