The worlds of sandwiches and supermarkets are crossing paths with high-tech innovation in a new lawsuit. AML IP, LLC, represented by Ramey LLP, has filed a patent infringement case against Schlotzsky's Franchisor SPV LLC and United Supermarkets, LLC in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas, Midland/Odessa Division on August 11, 2025.

The lawsuit focuses on U.S. Patent No. 7,177,838, which covers a “Method and Apparatus for Conducting Electronic Commerce Transactions Using Electronic Tokens.” Put simply, this patent deals with technology that allows people to make secure electronic transactions—using digital “tokens” to process purchases more safely and efficiently. It's the kind of technology that makes modern e-commerce and digital payments possible.

AML IP, LLC asserts that Schlotzsky's and United Supermarkets are using this patented technology without permission. By filing the lawsuit, AML IP is working to protect its intellectual property and ensure that its innovations aren't used without proper authorization.

Ramey LLP emphasized that this legal action is about more than one company or one patent—it's about making sure inventors and patent holders receive credit and protection for their ideas in a marketplace where technology plays an ever-growing role.

As the case unfolds, it highlights how even everyday businesses—from your local sandwich shop to your neighborhood grocery store—rely on advanced digital tools to serve customers, and why protecting those innovations is becoming increasingly important.

Ramey LLP is a full-service litigation law firm working with a national client base from our Houston, Texas office. We are dedicated to enhancing client results through efficient practice management, innovative technologies and the use of skilled professionals.