Jellycat, the international soft toy brand, has filed a lawsuit against Morrisons in the High Court, accusing the supermarket of copying its stuffed pet designs for a new range of products sold in UK stores. The dispute centers on Morrisons' recently launched £4 plush toys, which Jellycat claims are strikingly similar to its own items that retail for £18 and above.
Allegations of Intellectual Property Infringement
Jellycat, known for its viral popularity on social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, holds exclusive trademarks on its soft toy designs. The brand is particularly aggrieved by Morrisons' 'Mummy and Me' kangaroo, sold for £8, which Jellycat says mirrors its own kangaroo product priced at £25. Jellycat reportedly sells over 10 million of its £25 toys annually worldwide.
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.'
Background of the Dispute
Morrisons had previously launched a soft toy-inspired cake last December with the caption: 'Jellycat lovers, this one's for you.' This move may have heightened tensions. A source close to Jellycat 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 filed the lawsuit earlier this week, according to reports. The brand was founded in 1999 by brothers Thomas and William Gatacre and has attracted high-profile fans, including members of the Royal Family. Prince William and Princess Kate's daughter Charlotte was photographed playing with a Jellycat Fuddlewuddle Puppy in 2015, and Prince William has said the toys are very popular in his family.
Jellycat's Legal History
This is not Jellycat's first legal action over alleged plagiarism. The brand is also suing high street chain Next for similar claims. Previously, Jellycat reached a settlement with Aldi, which agreed to stop selling £4 knock-off stuffed dragons.
The Express has contacted Morrisons for comment.
