What's In a Name? A lot, Says Publix
LAKELAND, Fla. -- Publix Super Markets, Inc. and Mountain Peak Water Treatment, Inc., today announced the settlement of litigation concerning use of Publix's name and logo in the water treatment systems provider's marketing campaign.
During early 2004, flyers promoting Mountain Peak's services and displaying the Publix logo were distributed in Ocala, Fla.-area newspapers. In April 2004 Publix filed suit against Mountain Peak, accusing the company of trademark infringement and unfair and deceptive trade practices. Mountain Peak has denied the allegations.
The parties have agreed to resolve their dispute. Mountain Peak continues to deny liability but has agreed to pay Publix's damages and attorney fees. Mountain Peak also has consented to the entry of a permanent injunction prohibiting Mountain Peak from using the Publix name and logo.
"We are pleased to have this issue resolved," said Publix director of media/community relations Maria Rodamis. "We treat the use of our name and logo very seriously and will take the necessary steps to protect their integrity when necessary."
Publix is owned and operated by its 129,000 employees, with 2003 sales of $16.8 billion.
Publix currently has 849 stores in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, and Tennessee.
During early 2004, flyers promoting Mountain Peak's services and displaying the Publix logo were distributed in Ocala, Fla.-area newspapers. In April 2004 Publix filed suit against Mountain Peak, accusing the company of trademark infringement and unfair and deceptive trade practices. Mountain Peak has denied the allegations.
The parties have agreed to resolve their dispute. Mountain Peak continues to deny liability but has agreed to pay Publix's damages and attorney fees. Mountain Peak also has consented to the entry of a permanent injunction prohibiting Mountain Peak from using the Publix name and logo.
"We are pleased to have this issue resolved," said Publix director of media/community relations Maria Rodamis. "We treat the use of our name and logo very seriously and will take the necessary steps to protect their integrity when necessary."
Publix is owned and operated by its 129,000 employees, with 2003 sales of $16.8 billion.
Publix currently has 849 stores in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, and Tennessee.