NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) – Connecticut-based Stanley Black & Decker is suing the company behind the popular drinkware, Stanley, over the use of its name.
The lawsuit, which was filed on Monday, claims that Pacific Market International (PMI), the makers of Stanley, violated a series of agreements that began in 1966 and continued to 2012 over its likelihood of confusing consumers.
In the agreement, PMI was prohibited from using Stanley as its company name, limited the use of Stanley to specific categories of goods and placed restrictions on the website domain, advertising and more, according to the lawsuit.
The lawsuit claims PMI “willfully and intentionally” ignored the restrictions the companies agreed upon by using Stanley broadly in ways that were restricted and breached trademark rights.
According to the lawsuit, PMI misappropriated the name for “viral success” and expanded beyond contract limits, which related to the website domain, the product markings and advertising, confusing customers by selling Stanley-branded merchandise.
Stanley Black & Decker is seeking compensation and an end to the use of the Stanley name by PMI.
Nexstar’s WTNH reached out to PMI for comment but did not immediately receive a response.
Stanley Black & Decker has sold Stanley-branded products to customers for over 180 years, like knives, lighting, equipment and more.
Source: Fox 8 News Channel
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