The Delhi High Court has officially recognised Peter England as a well-known trademark under the Trade Marks Act of 1999, strengthening its legal protection against unauthorised use. The ruling came in response to a suit filed by the brand’s parent company, Aditya Birla Group, which sought a permanent injunction against a business using the name ‘Peter England’ on signboards and invoices. The case began when Aditya Birla Retail filed a lawsuit against Friends Inc., alleging trademark infringement over the unauthorised use of ‘Peter England’.
According to the court order, the Court noted that the defendants had already removed the infringing signage and stopped using the mark, leading to a decree in favour of the plaintiff. However, the brand also sought formal recognition as a well-known trademark, arguing that Peter England had built a significant reputation and goodwill over the years.
Justice Mini Pushkarna, while granting the order, highlighted the brand’s historical legacy and market presence. Originally launched in 1889 by Carrington Viyella Garments Limited in England, Peter England entered the Indian market in 1997 and was later acquired by its current owners in 2000. With 380 outlets across 180 cities, the brand has consistently expanded its footprint.
The Court considered multiple factors, including substantial sales turnover and advertising expenditure, to establish the mark’s wide recognition. For the financial year 2023-24, Peter England recorded a turnover of Rs 1,289 crore, with approximately Rs 31 crore spent on advertising and promotions. The brand has also secured celebrity endorsements from Ayushmann Khurrana and Chennai Super Kings cricketers, further cementing its public recognition.
Additionally, the Court acknowledged Peter England’s global trademark registrations and copyright protections, reinforcing its exclusive rights over the brand identity. With this declaration, Peter England now enjoys a higher level of legal protection, making it easier to take action against future infringements and unauthorised use of its name.