The J.M. Smucker Company has filed a federal lawsuit against Trader Joe’s, accusing the grocery chain of trademark infringement for selling a crustless peanut butter and jelly sandwich it claims closely imitates its popular Uncrustables brand.
The lawsuit, filed Monday in U.S. District Court in Ohio, centers on Trader Joe’s “crustless peanut butter & strawberry jam sandwiches.” Smucker’s alleges that both the product’s design and its packaging mimic the distinctive look of Uncrustables, misleading consumers and infringing on its trademarked design elements.
Uncrustables are known for their round, crustless shape with crimped edges and fillings such as peanut butter with grape jelly or strawberry jam. Smucker’s has used this design since 1996 and has featured a sandwich with a bite taken out of it on its packaging since 2000. The company argues that Trader Joe’s product uses a nearly identical round shape and bite-mark imagery, along with a bright blue box that resembles Uncrustables’ branding.
Smucker’s claims Trader Joe’s actions are an attempt to capitalize on the Uncrustables brand’s widespread recognition and popularity. The company says the similarity in packaging and design has deceived consumers into thinking the Trader Joe’s sandwiches are sponsored by or affiliated with Smucker’s. Uncrustables are sold in thousands of stores nationwide and are on track to become a $1 billion brand, according to the complaint.
The lawsuit asks the court to order Trader Joe’s to stop using any packaging or marketing materials that imitate Smucker’s trademarks. It also seeks the destruction of all allegedly infringing products and materials, as well as the profits Trader Joe’s has earned from the sandwiches and reimbursement of Smucker’s legal costs.
Source: CBS