Name Change: Benny's Fresh Market Becomes Richmond Farms

RICHMOND, R.I. -- A new South County grocery store will be opening under the name "Richmond Farms Fresh Market." The market's owners changed the name after announcing the store would be named for the iconic Rhode Island store Benny's.

The owners changed the name on the store's Facebook page over the weekend, after announcing on Friday that they would not be named for the Rhode Island standby thanks to a trademark dispute.

Documents posted on the store's Facebook page show official paperwork from Rhode Island Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea approving use of the trademarked Benny's logo for "Benny's Fresh Market." However, the store owners said they were unaware that a federal trademark was also in place.

"We took what we thought were the proper steps to obtain the trademark of the Benny's logo," owner Christopher Menta wrote. "However, it was overlooked that there was a federal trademark in place. Our intention was never to disrespect a store that holds a place in all of our hearts but rather to pay homage to them."

An announcement posted Thursday showed the classic red script reading "Benny's Fresh Market."

An official opening date has not been announced at this time, though the owners said it would be open "before Easter." The store is located at 5 Kingstown Road, in the building formerly occupied by a liquor store and a flower shop before that.

READ MORE:

• Benny's Name Lives On Through New Supermarket
• Benny's No More: Supermarket To Change Name