Lego Wins Trademark Battle Against Hyderabad-Based Candy Company Leo Foods

In a significant victory for the globally renowned Danish toy company Lego, the Madras High Court has ruled in favour of the toy giant in a trademark dispute against Hyderabad-based candy manufacturer Leo Foods. The case centred around Leo Foods' use of a nearly identical mark on its candy products, which Lego argued was an infringement of its iconic brand.

 

Justice PB Balaji of the Madras High Court issued the verdict, ordering the deputy trademark registrar to cancel the contested trademarks, 'Lego Cuteheart' and 'Lego Coffybond,' by Leo Foods. The court found that the marks in question not only replicated the distinctive Lego word mark but also its defining visual elements, leading to a likelihood of consumer confusion, especially among children.

 

"Children are the intended market for both businesses, and they mostly use visuals to summarize their favourite products," stated Justice Balaji in his ruling. "Children would most likely become victims easily because Leo Foods replicated the Lego word mark and its defining characteristics."

 

Lego's legal team successfully argued that Leo Foods' use of the mark on candies would likely deceive consumers, particularly young children, who might associate the candy with the toy brand's trusted reputation. The court's decision to remove the infringing marks from the trademark registry reinforces the protection of well-known trademarks against misuse, especially regarding products targeting vulnerable consumers.

 

The ruling significantly affirms Lego's efforts to protect its intellectual property rights globally, particularly in emerging markets like India, where the brand continues to expand its reach. Lego has been vigilant in safeguarding its brand identity against infringement, as its iconic blocks and associated branding are instantly recognizable to consumers worldwide.

 

Leo Foods has yet to comment on the court's decision, and it remains to be seen if the company will appeal the ruling. Meanwhile, the judgment reminds us of the stringent protections afforded to famous trademarks in India, especially when it comes to preventing consumer confusion in the marketplace.