Multiple media outlets in South Africa and locally reported that the homegrown grocer was taking its final dance in the neighbouring country’s market by exiting its remaining counters. Last week, Choppies clarified the position, saying it has no presence in South Africa and the use of its name was an infringement of its trademark and deal in 2019. The confusion stems from a sale executed in November 2019, when the listed supermarket chain sold its South African operations to a local operator. The Competition Authority approved the transaction in February 2020, allowing the buyer to use the Choppies name for 24 months. After the two years, all trademarks, patents, and associated intellectual property were to revert to Choppies Botswana. Despite the legal arrangement, a press release issued on behalf of the buyers suggested that Choppies Supermarkets was operating in South Africa, creating the impression that the Botswana-based retailer was still active in the country. In an interview, Choppies CEO, Ramachandran Ottapathu, dismissed the reports while also citing that legal action was being taken against this infringement. “Just exactly after the 24 months, which is February 2022, legally they needed to stop using the name Choppies, and all the intellectual property and the trademark reverted back to Choppies Enterprises Botswana from the end of February 2022,” he explained. “Which we enforced and took it back. And if anybody uses Choppies' names in South Africa, that is completely illegal and it is not permissible under any circumstances.” He stressed that all associated trademarks, patents, domain names, and intellectual property ceased to be valid under the former operator from that date. “It is completely null and void and illegal,” he said. The CEO also confirmed that the company is actively monitoring the South African market and taking legal action where necessary. “We have seen a few trucks running around with the Choppies name. “We took the matter to the lawyers and they immediately removed it. When they see a trademark or a Choppies name in South Africa without our permission, those who feel that they are misusing it can report it, and we will make sure that we take the appropriate action,” he said.
