Jo Malone hopes ‘sense will prevail’ in lawsuit over her name
Jo Malone’s Legal Battle Over Brand Name
Perfume creator Jo Malone has expressed hope that “sense will prevail” in a legal dispute involving her name. The case, initiated by Estée Lauder, centers on the use of her name in a collaboration between Jo Loves and Zara. Estée Lauder, the cosmetics corporation, acquired Malone’s original Jo Malone London brand—including her name—in 1999.
Background of the Brands and Collaboration
Malone established Jo Loves in 2011, expanding her product range to include candles and toiletries alongside fragrances. Last month, Estée Lauder Companies filed High Court proceedings against Malone, Jo Loves, and Zara’s UK division, alleging trademark violations and breach of contract. The lawsuit follows the collaboration’s packaging, which featured the phrase: “A creation by Jo Malone CBE, founder of Jo Loves.”
Malone’s Defense and Statements
In an Instagram video, Malone conveyed her “surprise and sadness” over the legal action. She emphasized that the partnership—launched seven years ago—was unrelated to her original brand, stating, “We’ve done as much as we possibly can to clarify this.” Malone questioned Estée Lauder’s timing, wondering why the lawsuit emerged now despite the collaboration’s long-standing use of her name.
“I sold a company, I did not sell myself. Those collections were created by me, the person,” Malone said.
Estée Lauder’s legal team argued that Malone agreed to a non-compete clause in her 1999 deal, which barred her from using the “Jo Malone” name in commercial contexts like fragrance marketing. While she initially complied, the company now claims her continued association with the brand name on Zara’s packaging violates their agreement.
Estée Lauder’s Stance and Contract Terms
Malone’s original brand was sold for “undisclosed millions,” but she remained as creative director until 2006. Under the contract, she was restricted from developing new fragrance or skincare lines until 2011. Estée Lauder reiterated that Malone’s compensation included adherence to these terms, adding that they “respect her right to pursue new opportunities” but would “protect the brand we’ve invested in over decades” if rules are broken.
Meanwhile, Zara has yet to comment on the lawsuit. Malone, reflecting on her journey, mentioned her roots on a council estate in southeast London and her brand’s success in crafting scents inspired by British nature. She reiterated her commitment to defending her position in court, though she remains hopeful for a resolution that maintains her integrity in the industry.
