RICHMOND, Va. -- Philip Morris USA filed lawsuits yesterday against retailers selling counterfeit versions of the company's Marlboro brand cigarettes. The company filed three suits against 105 retailers in federal courts in New York and New Jersey. The lawsuits are aimed at stopping the sale of counterfeit cigarettes and the unauthorized use of PM USA's trademarks.
The sale of counterfeit cigarettes undermines the value of Philip Morris USA's brands and the legitimate channels through which our products are distributed and sold, said Charlie Whitaker, [image-nocss] vice president of compliance and brand integrity for PM USA. Selling counterfeit cigarettes is illegal, and we will take action to protect our brands.
These suits are the result of the company's periodic marketplace purchases of cigarettes. Each of the named defendants--mostly small grocery stores, delis and mom-and-pop convenience stores, rather than multiple-store chains, according to court documents--sold counterfeit cigarettes during recent purchases in New York or New Jersey. PM USA shares the results of these purchases and other information with law enforcement at the federal, state and local levels.
We believe that the vast majority of retailers are committed to selling cigarettes legally and responsibly, said Ross Webster, PM USA's vice president of customer service and merchandising. We hope that these lawsuits protect retailers from unfair competition and encourage others to comply with the law.
Richmond, Va.-based PM USA said it pursues numerous strategies to address the sale of counterfeit, illegally imported, stolen and untaxed or undertaxed cigarettes. The company actively supports the efforts of authorities to enforce laws related to cigarette trade; advocates for enhanced federal and state legislation to address the sale of contraband cigarettes; and pursues litigation or other actions against those who violate PM USA trademark rights, contracts or trade policies.
The lawsuits, filed in the Southern District of New York, the Eastern District of New York and the District of New Jersey, name as defendants retailers in both states.
Members help make our journalism possible. Become a CSP member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.