Rebel Creamery Chapter 11 After $23.8M Judgment, Judge Komitee

Rebel Creamery LLC filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in Utah after losing a trademark infringement case to Van Leeuwen, with U.S. District Judge Eric Komitee ruling the infringement was intentional and that Rebel’s packaging copied Van Leeuwen’s pastel, single-color pints with black script. Rebel was ordered to redesign its packaging and pay about $23.8 million in profits from infringing sales; Van Leeuwen’s nearly $24 million claim is listed as disputed in the filing, which notes the judgment is under appeal. The company lists roughly $13.8 million in assets against about $23.85 million in liabilities. The bankruptcy filing indicates Chapter 11 will focus on restructuring debts while continuing operations, and does not necessarily shutter Rebel. The case underscores branding competition in the crowded ice cream market, with Rebel's products sold nationwide at retailers such as Walmart and Kroger. Rebel's leadership emphasizes the filing is part of a restructuring and appeal process rather than an admission the business cannot survive.