Legal Showdown: Pittsburgh vs. Monroeville Home & Garden Events

Legal Dispute Over Trademark of "Home & Garden Show" Intensifies

A legal battle has emerged between two events in Pennsylvania, the Pittsburgh Home & Garden Show and the Monroeville Home & Garden Show, over the use of the phrase "Home & Garden Show." The dispute centers on trademark laws and whether the term is considered a generic phrase or a protected service mark.

The Pittsburgh Home & Garden Show filed a lawsuit in Allegheny County’s Court of Common Pleas, claiming that the organizers of the Monroeville event have violated trademark laws. According to the lawsuit, the Pittsburgh event registered the service mark "Home & Garden Show" in 1991 and asserted a first use date as early as February 1985. The Jace Group and James McClintock are named among the defendants in this case.

In response, the Jace Group issued a statement explaining their position. They emphasized that they made good-faith efforts to resolve the matter by reaching out directly to the Pittsburgh event's leadership and attorney. However, these efforts did not result in meaningful dialogue. The group argues that the phrase "Home & Garden Show" has become a generic term, used by more than a dozen events across Pennsylvania for over 50 years without facing legal action. They believe only their event has been targeted, which they see as an unfair situation.

Under Pennsylvania law, specifically 54 Pa.C.S. § 1124(a), a trademark may be canceled if it has become generic or abandoned. Based on this, the Jace Group has filed a countersuit to ask the court to review and potentially cancel the plaintiff's 1991 registration. They claim that while they do not intend to continue using the name after their September 5–7 event in Monroeville, they feel obligated to pursue the case to prevent other vendors, communities, and promoters from facing similar challenges.

The Jace Group also stated that they respect the plaintiff's long history in the industry but argue that the legal landscape has changed. They pointed out that in Pennsylvania alone, there are at least five other large events using the phrase "Home & Garden Show," along with numerous smaller municipal and community events. These events use the term to describe gatherings focused on home improvement, gardening, and related products. According to the group, this widespread usage reflects the definition of a generic phrase — words that describe the nature of an event rather than identify a specific business.

The Jace Group further explained that they did not create a new event but continued where another promoter left off a few years ago. When they revived the event, they chose the most commonly used name for this type of show. They argue that if the event excluded landscapers and gardening suppliers, it would be considered a "home show." However, because it includes these elements, "Home & Garden Show" is the most accurate and descriptive label.

The group also mentioned that they have taken steps to distinguish their Monroeville event from the plaintiff's show. Their goal, they said, is not to engage in a feud but to serve the community by providing an event that has been requested and supported by local residents.

As the legal proceedings continue, the Jace Group plans to defend their rights in court on Tuesday, August 19, 2025. They believe that both the law and public opinion are on their side, and they remain committed to resolving this issue through the judicial process.