Market Basket issues cease-and-desist to author over logo parody merchandise

Market Basket has issued a cease-and-desist letter to North Shore author Madison Murray over her parody merchandise featuring a racy twist on the grocery chain's logo. The designs, which include the phrase "Wh*** For Your Dollar," were available online for several months. Murray's merchandise promotes her erotic art and poetry book, which she describes as a playful take on her North Shore roots. After receiving the letter on November 7, she complied by removing the items from sale. Murray believes her work may qualify as fair use and is consulting with lawyers. Market Basket stated it aims to protect its intellectual property but does not seek lengthy legal disputes.