Buc-ee's Sues Ohio Mini Mart Over Beaver Logo

The Texas-based travel center chain Buc-ee's filed a federal trademark infringement lawsuit in late July 2026 against Beaver's Mini Mart, a small corner store in Beavercreek, Ohio. Buc-ee's alleges that the mini mart's mascot—a smiling cartoon beaver with wide eyes and a red color scheme—closely resembles its own federally registered trademarks and is likely to cause consumer confusion.

Owner Vik Boparai has defended the branding as a reflection of the store's connection to Beavercreek and noted the business has operated since 2017. This predates the opening of the first Buc-ee's in Ohio, which launched in Huber Heights in April 2026. The lawsuit seeks an order for the store to cease using the branding and pay damages and attorney fees.

The legal action has triggered a significant community backlash. Over 20 local businesses in Beavercreek and Cincinnati have temporarily adopted beaver logos in solidarity, while residents have organized a GoFundMe and "cash mobs" to support the family-run business. Local officials, including Beavercreek Mayor Don Adams and Chamber of Commerce President Wendy Rodgers, have expressed support for the mini mart.

Separately, comedian John Oliver criticized the chain's history of pursuing smaller companies over animal mascots on "Last Week Tonight." Oliver challenged Buc-ee's to sue his show by creating and selling "Buc-off" branded merchandise and a squirrel logo resembling the chain's mascot.