Smucker Takes Legal Action Against Trader Joe’s Over PB&J Sandwich Copycat Claims

The J.M. Smucker Co. is taking legal action against Trader Joe’s. They claim that Trader Joe’s new frozen peanut butter and jelly sandwiches look too much like their popular Uncrustables. The lawsuit was filed in federal court in Ohio.

Smucker argues that Trader Joe’s sandwiches feature similar crimped edges and packaging colors. They believe these similarities violate their trademarks. The design of Trader Joe’s boxes also resembles Smucker’s, with a sandwich depicted that has a bite taken out of it.

In the lawsuit, Smucker said they don’t mind competition in the frozen sandwich market but want to protect their brand. They are seeking financial restitution and want Trader Joe’s to destroy all similar products and packaging.

Michael Kelber, an intellectual property expert, mentions that Smucker’s registered trademarks strengthen their position. However, he notes Trader Joe’s could argue that their crimped edges are simply a functional design and not trademarked.

Interestingly, Uncrustables originated in 1996 in Minnesota, founded by two friends. Smucker acquired the brand in 1998 and spent over $1 billion to develop it since then. This includes perfecting the bread and creating various flavors.

A key part of the lawsuit is whether Trader Joe’s sandwiches confuse customers. Smucker claims this is already happening, citing a social media post where someone believed Trader Joe’s was linked to Smucker.

This isn’t the first time Smucker has taken legal steps to protect Uncrustables. In 2022, they sent a cease and desist letter to Gallant Tiger, another company making similar sandwiches.

Kelber explains that it’s vital for brands to defend their trademarks. If they don’t act against competitors, it weakens their position in future disputes. Historically, many trademark cases settle out of court to avoid costly trials.

Experts believe that this case may further shape how companies navigate brand protection, especially as consumers become more brand-aware. As the market for simple, ready-to-eat meals expands, disputes over branding may become more common.

For more details about trademark law and brand protection, you can read this report.

Source link

The J. M. Smucker Co., Ohio, General news, OH State Wire, Paper and packaging, Intellectual property, Business, Michael Kelber, Mondelez International, Inc., Lifestyle, Neal Gerber Eisenberg, Minnesota, Design, U.S. news, U.S. News