Jo Malone sues Zara owner in London High Court over 2018 bottle trademark
Estée Lauder’s Jo Malone division sued Inditex, alleging Zara’s perfume bottles infringe Jo Malone’s 2018 registered bottle shape trademark, and Inditex denied any breach at a May 11 hearing in London High Court. The ruling could impact Inditex’s Zara Fragrance expansion and shape packaging design enforcement.
1. Lawsuit Details
Estée Lauder’s Jo Malone division initiated the lawsuit in London High Court on May 11, alleging that Inditex’s Zara Fragrance bottles replicate the distinctive rectangular bottle shape that Jo Malone registered in 2018.
2. Inditex’s Defense
Inditex denied the allegations at the hearing, arguing its perfume packaging features different proportions and design elements that distinguish Zara Fragrance bottles from Jo Malone’s trademarked design.
3. Potential Impact
A ruling against Inditex could hinder Zara Fragrance’s global rollout plans and prompt wider industry scrutiny of packaging design enforcement and intellectual property strategies.
4. Next Steps
The court has not yet scheduled a final ruling date, with additional hearings expected later this year to address trademark validity and breach questions.