LOTR Rights Owners Take Action Against "Lord Of The Bins" Waste Removal Company

The company that owns the rights to The Lord of the Rings is reportedly taking action against a London area waste removal company called "Lord of the Bins."

The BBC reports that the home and office waste collection company operating out of East Sussex and West Sussex was informed by Middle-earth Enterprises informing them they need to change their name. Nick Lockwood and Dan Walker, who own Lord of the Bins, said they would need to spend "thousands" of pounds to re-launch under a different name.

"Middle-earth Enterprises has sent and is enforcing a cease and desist, claiming we're in breach of their trademarks," Lockwood said, adding that lawyers for Middle-earth Enterprises said customers might believe that Lord of the Bins is officially affiliated with The Lord of the Rings.

"But anyone in their right mind knows we're a completely separate and non-competitive business," Lockwood said. Additionally, Lord of the Bins is being asked to stop using its slogan, "One Ring to Remove It All."

Lockwood said the waste-collection company will "continue providing a great service for our city," no matter what it's called. Middle-earth Enterprises has not commented on the matter.

Anyone can pitch Middle-earth Enterprises on a licensing opportunity. According to Middle-earth Enterprises, any unsanctioned uses of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, including its "places, items, characters, and events" from the books and films is unlawful.

While an official Lord of the Rings waste management service is not officially approved, Middle-earth Enterprises has approved licenses for bicycle, honey, and yoga companies. Other approved licensees include movie studio New Line and video game developers like EA, Daedalic, North Beach, Standing Stone, and more.