Judge says Smucker’s lawsuit against Trader Joe’s over frozen sandwiches can proceed.
Summary
A judge allowed J.M. Smucker to continue a lawsuit against Trader Joe’s for allegedly copying the look of Smucker’s Uncrustables frozen sandwiches. Smucker claims Trader Joe’s sandwiches and packaging are too similar, while Trader Joe’s denies copying and says the design is functional.Key Facts
- Smucker sued Trader Joe’s in federal court in Ohio over frozen peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
- Smucker says Trader Joe’s sandwiches copied the round shape and crimped edges of Uncrustables.
- Smucker also claims Trader Joe’s packaging looks very similar to Uncrustables’ box design.
- Trader Joe’s says its sandwiches are shaped as “squircles” (square with rounded edges) not round.
- Trader Joe’s argues the crimped edge is needed to keep sandwich contents inside.
- A judge ruled that Smucker’s Uncrustables brand has established customer recognition over 20 years.
- The court denied Trader Joe’s request to move the case to California.
- Smucker wants Trader Joe’s to pay restitution and destroy all disputed products and packaging.
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