Levis went after orSlow a few years back for just this. Claiming that any tab attached to denim regardless of position was a trademark infringement.
The Fullcount thing is ironic as wasn't them, that went after the TCB contest jeans a few years back?
LVC is finished yes, They will roll over certain styles into the Made in Japan line.
On a side note, I have some of the LVC catalogue books, I would be willing to part with:
FW16, SS17, FW18, FW19, SS19.
I am happy to do a deal for Sufu members.