Inter Ikea Systems BV v. I Key Home Studio LLP & Anr.

Using “IKEY” to mimic “IKEA” misleads consumers—trademark rights must be protected.

Summary :

IKEA India brought a trademark infringement and passing-off suit against IKEY Home Studio LLP, which was using the mark “IKEY” and the name “IKEY Home Studio” for home furnishing goods. Delhi High Court granted an ex parte interim injunction, restraining IKEY from using the name or domain (ikeyllp.com) until a further hearing in May 2025, concluding the case showed strong potential for confusion.

Facts :

⦁ IKEA is globally renowned for furniture and home goods since 1943, and holds registered trademarks in India.

⦁ IKEY Home Studio filed multiple trademark applications in India using “IKEY” in classes for goods like tiles, sanitary ware, plumbing, paints, glass, plywood, etc.

⦁ IKEA issued cease-and-desist notices; IKEY denied similarity and did not appear in court.

⦁ IKEA conducted investigations, finding IKEY’s showroom and website used the mark prominently and marketed as part of “renowned brands.”

Findings :

⦁ The mark “IKEY” is deceptively similar to “IKEA” and likely to confuse customers.

⦁ IKEY’s adoption of the mark was dishonest and malicious, intending to piggyback IKEA’s goodwill.

⦁ Balance of convenience favored IKEA; absent injunction, irreparable damage to IKEA’s brand reputation may occur.

Suggestions :

⦁ Entities must avoid adopting marks phonetically or visually similar to established trademarks.

⦁ Well-known brands should actively monitor the market and enforce trademark rights promptly.

⦁ For new businesses, performing thorough trademark searches and selecting distinct branding is essential.

Judgment :

⦁ Date : December 18, 2024

⦁ Court : Delhi High Court (Justice Mini Pushkarna)

⦁ Order : Interim injunction prohibiting IKEY and affiliates from using “IKEY,” “IKEY Home Studio,” or similar marks in commerce, advertising, sales, imports/exports, and from using domain ikeyllp.com.

⦁ Next Hearing : May 9, 2025