US confectionery giant Hershey has initiated legal action against US senator Stephen Hershey Jr, accusing him of improper use of Hershey branding in campaign materials.
Senator Hershey, the Republican representative for Maryland, is using a sign featuring his name in block capitals with the words “state senate” underneath on a brown background.
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“We believe his campaign materials are an unauthorised use of our distinctive and famous design that we use for our chocolate bars and other products,” a spokesperson for Hershey told just-food.
“Our brand trademarks are among our most important and valuable assets. We have a responsibility to protect them no matter where or how those marks are being misused. It dilutes the value of our trademarks and can mislead consumers. In this case, it may mislead consumers into believing that Steve Hershey is somehow affiliated with or endorsed by The Hershey Company. The Hershey Company does not endorse political candidates.”
