Australian fashion designer, Katie Taylor, born Katie Perry, is suing US pop star Katy Perry for trademark infringement.
In a statement issued today, it is alleged Perry was aware of the name's trademark held in Australia by the designer and "tried to bully her to give it up in 2009", as well as attempts to "initiate opposition proceedings".
Taylor, who established her label in 2006, has held the trademark registration for Katy Perry-branded clothes in Australia since 29 September 2008, however Perry has continued to sell clothes under the 'Katy Perry' tag in Australia, including in Target, Myer and online websites.
“This is a real David and Goliath fight,” Taylor said.
“The singer has ignored my trademark and continued to sell infringing goods unlawfully in Australia.
“I am fighting not just for myself, but for all small businesses in this country who can be bullied by these overseas entities who have much more financial power than we do.”
According to The Daily Telegraph, Taylor responded to threats of a lawsuit from Perry's team in 2009, saying in a YouTube video, “I’m absolutely no threat to you … at the moment the only people who are making any money from this are the lawyers".
Taylor claims Perry "withdrew the opposition" just two hours before the court case was to commence.
Perry is yet to respond to the allegations.
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