Bangladeshi recycled yarn brand faces trademark dispute with Swiss giant

Bangladesh’s Simco Spinning & Textiles is battling a trademark dispute with Swiss sportswear brand ON over similar brand names in the recycling sector. Simco, based in Bhaluka, produces recycled yarn under the Cyclo brand, supplying global apparel manufacturers. Since 2014, Cyclo has been trademarked in over 20 countries, including the EU, US, UK, and Japan. However, in 2021, ON launched Cyclon as part of its recycling program and has since attempted to block Simco’s brand in key markets.

Rayhan Kabir, Simco’s process optimization manager, stated that ON’s actions have caused confusion and undermined a pioneering Bangladeshi brand. Despite repeated efforts to resolve the issue amicably, ON has remained unresponsive.

With a market capitalization exceeding $20 billion, ON has rapidly gained ground in the global sportswear industry. Its aggressive stance against Cyclo underscores the challenges smaller brands from developing nations face in protecting intellectual property against corporate giants.

Simco continues to defend its rights, stressing that it was the first to establish Cyclo as a sustainable textile brand. The dispute highlights growing tensions over brand identity in the circular economy as sustainability becomes a competitive global battleground.