Worcester bank sues TD Bank over name change

A Worcester-based bank has filed a federal lawsuit against the parent of TD Banknorth Inc. over its plans to begin doing business in Massachusetts under the name "TD Commerce Bank."

The trademark infringement lawsuit was filed today by Commerce Bank & Trust Co., which has 12 branches and has operated in Massachusetts since 1955.

Toronto-based TD Bank Financial Group, parent of TD Banknorth, was expected to complete its $8.5 billion purchase today of Commerce Bancorp, based in Cherry Hill, N.J.

Officials from the Worcester-based bank said customers will be confused if TD Bank is allowed to use the name TD Commerce Bank. They are asking a judge to issue an injunction to stop TD Bank from using the Commerce name in Massachusetts.

Representatives of TD Bank did not immediately return calls seeking comment. (AP)