Mumbai, February 7, 2025 – Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited (
BSE: 544203, NSE: ABDL) has secured a legal victory in the Bombay High Court regarding the trademark
MANSION HOUSE, allowing the company to introduce its product under this brand in West Bengal. The dispute, which dates back to 2009, was ruled in favor of ABDL, dismissing the claims made by Tilaknagar Industries Limited (TIL).
Case Background
- Plaintiff: Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited (ABDL)
- Defendant: Tilaknagar Industries Limited (TIL)
- Legal Forum: High Court of Judicature at Bombay
- Core Issue: Trademark rights over MANSION HOUSE for alcoholic beverages.
ABDL filed an interim application (IA No. 16999 of 2023) seeking permission to launch
MANSION HOUSE in West Bengal, where it had secured label registration from the State Excise Department. TIL opposed this move through Notice of Motion No. 1287 of 2010, arguing for an injunction to prevent ABDL from using
MANSION HOUSE or
SAVOY CLUB, alleging trademark infringement and passing off.
Key Court Ruling
- ABDL’s claim upheld: The court granted ABDL’s request to introduce its MANSION HOUSE brand in West Bengal, reinforcing its trademark rights.
- TIL’s motion dismissed: The court ruled against TIL’s injunction attempt, effectively nullifying its claim over MANSION HOUSE in this context.
- Financial implications: The financial impact remains unquantified at this stage, but the ruling is expected to open market expansion opportunities for ABDL.
Legal and Market Impact
This ruling provides ABDL with a legal endorsement of its rights over
MANSION HOUSE, strengthening its market presence and ability to compete in key regions. The decision may also influence similar pending disputes in the alcoholic beverages sector, where legacy brand ownership has been contested.
Company Statement
ABDL's Company Secretary and Compliance Officer, Ritesh Shah, confirmed that the judgment and related documents are available on the company's website for stakeholders' reference.
Conclusion
With the Bombay High Court's ruling in favor of ABDL, the company is now set to expand its footprint in West Bengal under the
MANSION HOUSE label, overcoming a longstanding legal hurdle. Market watchers anticipate that this decision will provide momentum for ABDL’s strategic growth in the Indian liquor industry.