Nissan North America is suing a terminated Gallup, N.M., dealership for its continued unauthorized use of the manufacturer's trademarks, service marks and signage.
The trademark infringement, breach of contract and unfair trade practices suit alleges Ed Corley Nissan refused to provide access to the premises to remove signs, and the ex-dealership "purchased used Nissan vehicles and advertised them for sale" at the same location.
The franchise termination took effect in May 2022. However, a Google search showed that Ed Corley Nissan still has LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook pages. In addition, Corley Nissan LLC is still listed as an active corporation on the New Mexico Department of State website.
The suit seeks an injunction and damages, as well as $763,375 Nissan said the store owes for 25 vehicles it bought in 2021 and another $152,994 it said the ex-dealership owes for parts, tools and services.
According to the complaint, Ed Corley Nissan a…