Pushpeel LLC has launched a legal battle against a network of e-commerce operators accused of selling counterfeit versions of its popular sensory activity board. The complaint, filed by Pushpeel LLC in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on December 17, 2024, targets several partnerships and unincorporated associations that allegedly infringe on Pushpeel's copyrighted designs.
The lawsuit stems from allegations that these defendants are exploiting Pushpeel's reputation by distributing unauthorized copies of its federally registered products through various online marketplaces. According to the complaint, Pushpeel LLC has identified numerous e-commerce stores using aliases to sell these counterfeit goods, which mimic the design and functionality of its original product—a sensory activity board designed to enhance motor skills and coordination. "Defendants create e-commerce stores operating under one or more Seller Aliases that are advertising, offering for sale and selling Unauthorized Pushpeel Products to unknowing consumers," states the complaint.
Pushpeel claims that these actions have caused significant damage to its brand, leading to confusion among consumers who believe they are purchasing genuine products. The company asserts that this infringement is not only harming its reputation but also depriving it of potential revenue. As evidence, Pushpeel points out that these unauthorized sellers operate primarily from regions with lax intellectual property enforcement, such as China, making it difficult to trace their identities and hold them accountable.
In response to these alleged violations, Pushpeel is seeking both injunctive relief and monetary damages. The company requests the court issue an order preventing further sales of counterfeit products and demands compensation for lost profits resulting from the defendants' actions. Additionally, Pushpeel seeks statutory damages up to $150,000 per infringed work as well as reimbursement for legal fees incurred during this litigation process.
Representing Pushpeel LLC in this case are attorneys Amy C. Ziegler, Justin R. Gaudio, Trevor C. Talhami, and Lucas A. Peterson from Greer Burns & Crain Ltd., based in Chicago. The case is presided over by judges at the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois under Case ID 1:24-cv-12955.