Food company JM Smucker is accused of stealing its trademarked peanut butter and jelly sandwiches in a lawsuit filed this week.
Monrovia-based Trader Joe’s round, skinless sandwich pockets look too similar to , the lawsuit said. Both products are disk-shaped peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with crimped edges that can be stored in the freezer.
Mr. Smucker said Uncrusted Bulls’ distinctive appearance is protected by several trademarks and “constitutes trademark infringement, trademark dilution (and) unfair competition.”
The lawsuit, filed Monday in federal court in Ohio, says Smucker is entitled to damages and court-ordered relief. Smucker, based in Orrville, Ohio, was founded in 1897 as a maker of apple butter.
“Consumers can instantly recognize Smucker’s Uncrusted Sandwiches because of their unique design features,” the complaint states. “We cannot allow others to use and sell Smucker’s valuable intellectual property,” the company said.
Smucker spent about $1 billion over several years on marketing and product development for Uncrusted Bulls, according to the complaint. The company has been using round pie-shaped sandwiches with distinctive crimp edges since 1996.
Mr. Smucker also said that Trader Joe’s packaging is too similar to Uncrusted Bulls’ packaging. Both boxes are similar in color and resemble a round peanut butter and jelly sandwich with a bite out of it.
“Out of all the colors available, Defendants selected packaging that prominently featured the same blue color used and trademarked by Smucker,” the complaint states.
Trader Joe’s did not respond to a request for comment.
This grocer is popular with shoppers for its low prices, creative snacks and frozen meals, all under its own brand. The company normalized now-common foods like wild rice and almond butter.
The grocer’s newest offerings include wavy, knife-cut noodles, frozen chao tom, and cinnamon-twist danishes. Shoppers also love the chocolate-covered chocolate chip dunkers and chicken crisp Pasadena salad.
Trader Joe’s has more than 500 stores nationwide, with the largest number of stores in California with more than 150 stores. Los Angeles County residents have access to stores in West Hollywood, Sherman Oaks, Santa Monica and more.
The privately held company, owned by German supermarket chain operator Aldi, was founded in Pasadena in 1967. We have built a loyal following by offering unique seasonal products and popular tote bags. bag.
