Oreo Manufacturer Sues Aldi Over Lookalike Packaging

Snack food giant Mondelez International has filed a federal lawsuit against Aldi, claiming the discount grocery chain is misleading customers by mimicking the packaging of iconic products like Oreos, Chips Ahoy, and Wheat Thins. The suit, filed in Illinois, accuses Aldi of “blatantly copying” Mondelez’s trade dress, showcasing side-by-side comparisons of similarly colored boxes and designs, such as Aldi’s “Thin Wheat” crackers resembling Wheat Thins and its chocolate sandwich cookies using Oreo-like blue packaging. Mondelez argues the similarities could confuse consumers and damage the brand’s reputation. Although Aldi has previously modified or pulled some disputed products, Mondelez claims many infringing packages remain on store shelves. Aldi has faced similar lawsuits internationally for copycat branding, including rulings in Australia and the U.K. The complaint also includes alleged infringement on packaging for Nutter Butter, Nilla Wafers, and Premium crackers. Mondelez is seeking monetary damages and a court injunction to halt further sales. Aldi, which has over 2,500 stores in the U.S., has not publicly commented on the case.

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Source: AP News