Been wondering why the silence from Equillibrium over the past summer months? While taking time to enjoy the scenery, scents, and events Summers bring we have been engaged in a defense of our brand identity from a luxury fashion giant infringing on it.
Though prepared for our protections of use, we were not prepared for the treatment by the offender. They have deflected offerings to work together in order to continue use. They feel it is theirs to use how they want. The giant is Gucci. Here is the press release sent out Tuesday 11 September, 2018:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Gucci Disgraces Itself by Infringing on Denver’s Decades-old Sustainable Street Brand Equillibrium
Denver, CO - September 11th, 2018 - Luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Gucci are jumping on the sustainability bandwagon like newbie gamers fumbling over the latest AAA trend.
In early June of 2018, Gucci announced a 10-year commitment to sustainability in fashion which was branded as “Equilibrium” or “Equilibrium Gucci.” Gucci’s use of “Equilibrium” within their brand is a blatant trademark infringement on Denver-based Equillibrium , which is registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Gucci is a luxury brand household name, and hijacking the street credibility of the original Equillibrium name promises to create confusion in the marketplace while threatening to bury the independent brand on digital platforms.
Equillibrium is a 20 year-old company recognized by Common Law Rights that has risen from modest beginnings to build an accredited reputation as a sustainable fashion brand. Equillibrium’s founder Deb Henriksen is proud of the distinction she has earned as an entrepreneur promoting a brand that is firmly rooted in the original principles and practices of sustainability. For years, actions taken to defend Equillibrium’s trademarks were honored -- until now. Gucci’s infringement is an obvious attempt to leverage the grassroots foundation Henriksen has built and conveniently apply it to their overnight marketing initiative.
Gucci acknowledges the issue at hand and that there need be an amicable solution for both parties. However, they refuse to rebrand, enter into a licensing deal, or collaborate with Equillibrium to work toward this goal. It is imperative that Equillibrium defend their trademark and ensure no greenwashing tactics are propagated with use of the word. Equillibrium has received awards , editorial write ups , and a loyal customer base from the sustainability and integrity built into the brand since day one. Gucci can and will outspend Equillibrium in litigation, as displayed in their nine-year trademark infringement court battle with Guess . This is a classic case of corporate bullying by Gucci. Public transparency and holding Gucci accountable for its deliberate piracy is the best option towards a workable resolution for Equillibrium. Maximum broadcasting of this fraudulence towards the end consumer is needed in order for this injustice to be publicly identified and consciously boycotted.
This is a passionate appeal for your participation as a responsible, justice-minded member of the media. Caveat Emptor.
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We hope this makes Gucci take Equillibrium and sustainability more seriously in fashion. This is not a marketing campaign, nor game, nor joke. For us it is a passion and a way of life. Our founder has practiced, studied, and worked in sustainability for over 30 years. The sacrifice to educate and engage consumers to support a sustainable brand has been challenging during times when no one was mindful towards such a thing- and definitely were not spending money on it.
Equillibrium thanks every one of you for your loyal support over the years and making purchases to feed the brand that feeds your soul.
Namaste
1 comment
It’s true! They have totally ripped off the trade mark! I looked at it online and was horrified to see the blatant robbery by Gucci of Equillibium brand! Boycott Gucci and spread the word until there’s a settlement for justice for Deb Hendrickson, who has spent decades of her life to create the name Equilibrium as a fashion symbol for environmentalism and sustainability.