Avon apps-products maker iDevices is suing high-end specialty retailer Williams-Sonoma for trademark infringement, accusing the California company of ripping off its “iGrill” product name.
IDevices, which recently raised $4.3 million in venture funding, is best known for its iGrill product, a Bluetooth-connected meat thermometer that Omaha Steaks has integrated into its free phone app to help grillers keep tabs on their steaks from up to 200 feet away.
In a May 27, lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court of Connecticut, iDevices said it owns trademark rights to the “iGrill” name, but that Williams-Sonoma has been advertising, marketing, and selling a charcoal grill promoted on its website as the “I-Grill Portable Charcoal Grill.” The product also bears the “IGRILL” marking on its casing, the suit says.
Williams-Sonoma sells kitchenware, furniture, linens, and housewares online and at retail locations across the country including in Westfarms Mall in Farmington.
According to court documents, iDevices said Williams-Sonoma was aware of its trademark rights to the “iGrill” name, but chose to use it anyway, creating potential confusion among consumers, particularly since the companies sell complementary products: the meat thermometer and grill can be used together.
IDevices, which registered its iGrill trademark in 2011, said it has been “harmed by and has suffered loss” as a result of the misappropriation and is asking the court to stop Williams-Sonoma from using the name. IDevices also wants monetary damages.
Through a spokeswoman, iDevices declined to comment on its suit. Williams-Sonoma didn’t return a request for comment.
In January, iDevices raised $4.3 million from a group of investors including the state’s quasi-public venture capital arm, Connecticut Innovations. IDevices said it planned to use the money as working capital, to introduce new products and help scale its business.
CI first invested $150,000 in the company in 2011 to help support iGrill’s launch. Since then, iDevices has introduced other products, such as a Bluetooth-connected shower speaker.
— Greg Bordonaro
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