The Delhi High Court recently granted an interim injunction in favor of IKEA in its trademark infringement lawsuit against IKEY Home Studio, an Indian company selling home goods. In the case of Inter Ikea Systems BV vs. IKey Home Studio LLP and Anr., Justice Mini Pushkarna issued a ruling on December 18, 2024, restraining IKEY from using marks such as “IKEY,” “IKEY Home Studio,” or any other mark that is deceptively similar to the IKEA trademark.
The Court’s order effectively prohibits IKEY and its affiliates from selling, advertising, importing, exporting, or otherwise dealing in goods or services under these marks, as it could mislead consumers into believing that IKEY’s products are affiliated with or endorsed by IKEA. The order also mandated the suspension of the domain name “ikeyllp.com” during the pendency of the case and required the disclosure of its registration details.
IKEA, known for its iconic ready-to-assemble furniture, kitchen appliances, and home accessories, stated that its trademark holds significant global value, goodwill, and reputation. The company emphasized that the IKEA trademark is well-known worldwide, with recognition in various countries, including China, Chile, Italy, Indonesia, and many others. IKEA pointed out that it had received multiple rulings from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) recognizing its trademark as well-known.
The dispute began when IKEA discovered five trademark applications filed by IKEY, which deals in tiles, sanitary ware, plumbing materials, and other construction-related goods. After sending a cease-and-desist notice to IKEY, IKEA found that the Indian company continued its activities, including the operation of a website and a physical store under the name “IKEY.” IKEA’s investigation revealed that IKEY’s website claimed to offer products from “renowned brands,” raising concerns that consumers could be misled into thinking IKEY was selling IKEA products.
As IKEY did not appear in court to contest the matter, the Court granted an ex-parte injunction in favor of IKEA. The matter has been adjourned for further consideration on May 9, 2025.
IKEA’s legal team included Advocates Shwetasree Majumder, Tanya Varma, Vardaan Anand, and Ruchika Yadav.
