ANALYSIS OF THE 'PETER ENGLAND' WELL-KNOWN TRADEMARK RULING

The recent judgment by the Delhi High Court declaring "Peter England" as a well-known trademark marks a significant milestone in the realm of intellectual property rights in India.

- DEEVANSHU SHRIVASTAVA

This ruling not only reinforces the legal protections afforded to established brands but also highlights the importance of brand recognition and consumer trust in today's competitive marketplace.

The case was brought forth by Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Limited, which sought to protect its trademark from unauthorized use by Friends Inc., a company allegedly infringing on the "Peter England" brand name.

Justice Mini Pushkarna's ruling, delivered on February 8, 2025, recognized "Peter England" under Section 2(1)(zg) of the Trade Marks Act, 1999.

The court's decision was grounded in the extensive evidence presented by Aditya Birla Fashion, which demonstrated that "Peter England" has become synonymous with high-quality menswear in India.

The brand's legacy dates back to 1889 when it was first launched in England and later introduced to the Indian market in 1997.

Since its acquisition by Aditya Birla Group in 2000, "Peter England" has expanded significantly, boasting over 380 outlets across more than 180 cities in India.