Absolut Vodka sues Absolute Radio

V&S Vin&Sprit, the drinks company that owns the Absolut Vodka brand, has launched legal proceedings against Absolute Radio, formerly known as Virgin Radio, for infringement of its trademark.

The company, which also owns Absolut Tracks music project, has issued a writ for trademark infringement and misrepresenting its services as those of Absolut.

It says that consumers could be confused by the similar names of the brands and that Absolute Radio could be detrimental to the Absolut vodka brand.

The drinks company has also issued a writ against Absolute Radio International – a separate company previously run by members of the Absolute Radio management team – over a dispute over trademark registration.

Virgin Radio announced in September that it would rebrand as Absolute Radio, after it was bought by TIML Golden Square from SMG. The new name is being supported by a major campaign using the strapline “Discover Real Music”. The relaunch was developed by Albion, which won the £5m business in June.

Vin&Sprit was bought by Pernod Ricard in March this year. The acquisition was completed last month.