Jellycat has initiated legal proceedings against Morrisons, accusing the supermarket chain of producing cheaper imitations of its popular plush toys. The dispute centers on a soft toy-inspired cake launched by Morrisons last December, priced at £4, which Jellycat claims infringes on its designs.
High Court Action
The luxury toy brand is taking the case to the High Court after Morrisons promoted the cake with the caption: “Jellycat lovers, this one’s for you.” A source close to the matter stated: “Jellycat feel they have to defend themselves if someone tries to do their products cheaper and undercut them. It’s rule 101 of business.”
Jellycat’s Statement
A Jellycat spokesman told The Sun: “We put skill and love into creating every Jellycat character, so we’re obviously very protective of our designs and our fans. We are not commenting further at this time.”
Jellycat is reportedly particularly upset over the “Mummy and Me” kangaroo, which retails for £8 at Morrisons, compared to the full-price designer version at £25.
Previous Legal Battles
This is not the first legal wrangle between high street giants. In 2022, Marks & Spencer and Aldi reached a settlement in a trademark dispute over caterpillar cakes. M&S had accused Aldi of copying its Colin the Caterpillar cake. The supermarkets confirmed a settlement but declined to provide details.
M&S said it was “pleased” with the outcome, while Aldi stated its Cuthbert the Caterpillar cake was “free” and “looking forward” to seeing his fans. Aldi had stopped selling the cake in February 2021, and in April last year, M&S accused the discounter of trademark infringement. Aldi later released a limited edition for charity.
High Court Judge Timothy John Bowles allowed the legal claim to be withdrawn, and it emerged that the retailers had signed a “confidential agreement” over the claim in November. An M&S spokesman said: “The objective of the claim was to protect the [intellectual property] in our Colin the Caterpillar cake and we are very pleased with the outcome.” Aldi Stores UK tweeted: “Getting out early on good behaviour, keep an eye out for Cuthy B this spring.”
