Jo Malone, the British perfumer, has been sued for more than £200,000 by Estée Lauder over the use of her name on fragrances she created for Zara. According to The Guardian, Malone expressed surprise and sadness in an Instagram video defending her right to use her own name.
Key Takeaways
Jo Malone has been sued for more than £200,000 by Estée Lauder over the use of her name on perfumes she created for Zara. According to multiple reports, Malone expressed surprise and sadness in an Instagram video defending her right to use her own name. The lawsuit stems from a 1999 agreement where Malone sold her brand but retained personal rights.
- Jo Malone sued by Estée Lauder for trademark infringement over Zara collaboration
- Malone claims she was approached by Zara as an individual, not as a company
- Court documents reveal damages expected to exceed £200,000
- Malone expressed willingness to defend her position in court but hopes for a resolution
Estée Lauder claims that Malone infringed trademarks by using her name on products sold under the Jo Loves brand, which collaborated with Zara. The lawsuit arises from a 1999 agreement where Malone sold her perfume brand but retained personal rights. She stepped down as creative director of the Jo Malone brand in 2006 and has since said she regretted selling the rights to her name.
In her video, Malone stated that Zara approached her personally for a collaboration and not as a company or brand. She emphasized that they have gone above and beyond to make it clear that the products are created by Jo Malone herself and not associated with Jo Malone London. The Guardian reported that Estée Lauder took issue with the wording on the packaging, which read: 'A creation by Jo Malone CBE, founder of Jo Loves.' According to court documents seen by multiple publishers, both companies expect to recover more than £200,000 in damages.
The BBC reported that Malone said she hopes 'sense will prevail' and they can find a new way to work together. She also mentioned her willingness to defend her position in court if necessary. Estée Lauder has stated that Malone's use of the name 'Jo Malone' undermines Jo Malone London’s unique brand equity, which is why they are taking legal action.
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