Mondelez Sues Aldi Over Snack Packaging Copying

Mondelez International, known for snacks such as Oreos, Chips Ahoy, and Wheat Thins, has filed a federal lawsuit in Illinois against Aldi, alleging that Aldi's private-label cookies and crackers use packaging that 'blatantly copies' the color schemes, fonts, and imagery of Mondelez's iconic brands. Mondelez argues that these similarities could confuse consumers and dilute its trademarks. The company seeks monetary damages and an injunction to halt sales of the allegedly infringing Aldi products, supporting its case with side-by-side packaging comparisons. Aldi has previously changed or discontinued some products following complaints but is accused of leaving many copycat designs on store shelves. Aldi has also lost similar packaging-related cases in Australia and the UK. The dispute underscores ongoing tensions between major snack brands and discount retailers over intellectual property and brand identity.