Smucker’s Sues Trader Joe’s Over Alleged Uncrustables Copy

The J.M. Smucker Company has initiated legal action against Trader Joe’s, alleging that the grocery chain has copied its popular PB&J Uncrustables product. The lawsuit was filed in federal court in Ohio on October 23, 2023, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing competition between the two companies.

In its complaint, Smucker’s claims that Trader Joe’s “Crustless Peanut Butter & Strawberry Jam Sandwiches” closely mimic its own pre-made, frozen sandwiches. According to Smucker’s, these handheld treats have become an American staple, thanks to over $1 billion invested in marketing and product development over several decades. The company produces approximately 1.5 billion Uncrustables sandwiches annually, with the brand on track to reach a valuation of $1 billion.

Smucker’s asserts that while it welcomes competition in the market for frozen, crustless sandwiches, it must protect its intellectual property from what it describes as an “obvious copycat.” The lawsuit outlines several allegations, including trademark infringement, unfair competition, and deceptive trade practices.

Details of the Allegations

The suit specifies that Trader Joe’s has created a sandwich with a similar shape and marketing approach. Smucker’s argues that the new product features a round, crustless design with a crimped edge and packaging that resembles its own. Notably, the packaging shows a bite taken out of the sandwich, which Smucker’s claims imitates the distinctive Uncrustables design.

Additionally, Smucker’s points out that Trader Joe’s has opted for a packaging color that closely matches the signature blue used in Uncrustables packaging. The company argues that this has led to consumer confusion, with customers mistakenly believing that Trader Joe’s product is affiliated with or sponsored by Smucker’s.

In response to these alleged infringements, Smucker’s has requested that Trader Joe’s cease using any branding that resembles the Uncrustables design. The lawsuit also demands that all related products and marketing materials be surrendered for destruction. Moreover, the company is seeking unspecified monetary damages for the perceived violations.

“Our focus is solely on protecting the unique trademarked design that represents the high quality associated with the Uncrustables brand,” a representative for Smucker’s stated in an interview with CBS News. “This is about preventing consumer confusion caused by imitation.”

As the case unfolds, both companies are expected to provide further comments. The Independent has reached out to representatives from both Smucker’s and Trader Joe’s for additional insights into the situation.

This legal dispute highlights the complexities of brand identity in the competitive food industry, where product similarities can lead to significant legal and financial ramifications. As the case progresses, its outcome could set important precedents regarding trademark enforcement and intellectual property rights in the food sector.