A federal judge has ruled that J.M. Smucker can proceed with its trademark lawsuit against Trader Joe's over frozen peanut butter and jelly sandwiches that Smucker claims are too similar to its Uncrustables. Smucker sued Trader Joe's in Ohio federal court last fall, alleging trademark violation over the round shape, crimped edges, and packaging of Trader Joe's crustless sandwiches. Trader Joe's argued its sandwiches are "squircles" and that the design is functional, but U.S. District Judge John Adams ruled Friday that Smucker has built significant brand recognition over 20 years. The judge also denied Trader Joe's request to move the case to California. Smucker seeks restitution and destruction of Trader Joe's products and packaging.
The J. M. Smucker CompanyJudge allows Smucker's trademark lawsuit against Trader Joe's to proceed, advancing its legal protection of Uncrustables.
Court lets the trademark suit proceed and denies Trader Joe's bid to move the case, exposing it to potential restitution and destruction of its sandwiches.
