US: Guinness UDV takes on Anheuser-Busch over Red Label

In what can undeniably be described as a clash of the Titans, Guinness UDV has filed a lawsuit against Anheuser-Busch in the Manhattan Federal Court over the sale of A-B's new Red Label beer which it claims infringes the trademark and brand identity of its own Johnnie Walker Red Label Scotch Whisky.

Guinness UDV claimed that the brand not only uses the Red Label name but also uses similar gold and red packaging. The suit contends that A-B is improperly trying to capitalise on the popularity of the Red Label brand which is "exceedingly strong, famous and federally registered." The company is seeking a court order to prevent A-B from selling Red Label beer in addition to damages and costs.

Meanwhile, Guinness UDV parent company, Diageo, is expected to confirm in the next few weeks its plans for its Burger King subsidiary. Observers say Diageo will opt to sell the subsidiary rather than float it off, with a £1.5 billion management buyout a distinct possibility.

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