U.S. District Judge Arthur Tarnow rejected Chrysler's March 25 bid to block the Pure Detroit clothing retailer from using the slogan to peddle T-shirts while a trademark infringement lawsuit is pending in federal court. "It is hard to believe that a consumer shopping at Pure Detroit would think that the shirts are coming from Chrysler or that it was related to Chrysler," Tarnow argues.
However, this isn’t going to be the end of the story, as Chrysler spokesman Michael Palese said the automaker "will continue to pursue all avenues to protect our 'Imported From Detroit' trademark."
A lawyer for Pure Detroit, John VanOphem, said today the company was pleased but noted the case isn't over. If the two companies can’t reach a settlement soon, a full trial might not take place until next year at the earliest.
"We are moving forward with our next action steps in completely vindicating Pure Detroit. The court's ruling unmistakably affirms that Pure Detroit's evidence and arguments were well taken and properly supported by the law and common sense," he said.
Chrysler still insists it’s loosing money due to Pure Detroit's trademark infringement, as it’s pumping money into a global advertising campaign under the 'Imported from Detroit' slogan and is also selling shirts and other items under the name, just like the clothes maker. Chrysler said it applied for a trademark for the automotive use of the "Imported from Detroit" phrase on November 23, and on January 18 for clothing and other goods.
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