Williams-Sonoma, Inc. v. Carrot Cart, Inc. (Dupe.com)

JK Muthu
Sep 9
1 min read

False advertising, unfair competition, and copyright infringement claims over a “dupe-finding” website.

Short Description

Retail giant Williams‑Sonoma, Inc. (parent of West Elm, Pottery Barn) filed suit against Carrot Cart, Inc. (Dupe.com), alleging that the platform’s reverse-image tool deceptively markets look-alike 'dupe' furniture products. The claims include false advertising, unfair competition under the Lanham Act, and unauthorized use of copyrighted images.

Facts

· Parties: Williams‑Sonoma, Inc. vs. Carrot Cart, Inc. (Dupe.com)

· Complaint Filed: August 30, 2024, in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York

· Allegations by Williams‑Sonoma:

· - Dupe.com presents consumer searches for 'dupe' versions of their high-end products as identical, yet supplies cheaply made alternatives that mislead customers.

· - Use of copyrighted product images without authorization in marketing materials.

Findings

Court Proceedings: - Dupe.com filed a motion to dismiss, arguing the claims lack basis — asserting fair use, absence of likelihood of confusion, and reliance on the 'Server Test' for embedded images.Procedural Development: - The court scheduled a settlement conference on June 5, 2025 before Magistrate Judge Henry J. Ricardo.

Suggestions

· For Brands:

· - Careful with comparisons or look-alike references — ensure they're truthful, supported by evidence, and don't exploit trademarks or misleading images.

· For Aggregators/Dupe Platforms:

· - Avoid using copyrighted images without license.

· - If images are merely embedded, understand how the 'Server Test' may apply to reduce liability.