Estée Lauder Sues Jo Malone Over Use of Her Own Name on Zara Fragrances

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5.26.2026

Quick Facts

Estée Lauder filed a U.K. lawsuit in March 2026 against Jo Malone, Jo Loves, and Zara over fragrance packaging using Malone’s name
The company seeks more than £200,000 in damages, arguing trademark infringement from Malone’s 2019 Zara collaboration
Jo Malone London generates $990 million in net sales globally with 4,200 points of sale across 84 markets

Estée Lauder Companies filed a lawsuit against fragrance founder Jo Malone over her use of her own name on Zara perfume packaging. The March 2026 filing in U.K. courts targets Malone, her company Jo Loves, and Spanish retailer Zara.

The dispute centers on packaging descriptions that included phrases such as “created by Jo Malone CBE, founder of Jo Loves.” Lauder argues this constitutes trademark infringement, breach of contract, and passing off.

Malone sold her eponymous fragrance brand to Estée Lauder in 1999, including rights to use her name commercially. She left the brand in 2006 and founded Jo Loves in 2011 after her non-compete clause ended.

Legal Battle Intensifies

Malone’s lawyers filed a defense in May 2026, calling Lauder’s claim “hopeless.” The defense argues Malone retains absolute rights to use her name personally and creates zero confusion with the Jo Malone London brand.

“Ms. Malone has been using her own name to identify herself in promotional material connected to her Jo Loves business for over 14 years, but the claimants did not complain to her about such use until March 2024,” court documents state.

Malone responded emotionally on Instagram: “I sold a company, I did not sell myself. If I cannot be me, who on earth am I meant to be for the rest of my life?”

Market Impact

The Jo Malone London brand operates more than 100 stores in the U.K. and generated over $990 million in net sales last year. Since Malone’s departure, Lauder has opened 4,200 points of sale globally and employs more than 4,000 people.

Zara sells the disputed fragrances for £35.99 per 100ml bottle, compared to Jo Malone London perfumes priced at £122 and above for the same volume.

The case highlights tensions when founders sell eponymous brands. “A beauty company’s name and product names are frequently its most valuable assets,” says trademark attorney Diana Palchik.

Malone expressed hope for resolution outside court: “It is my sincere hope that this matter can be resolved respectfully, allowing all parties to move forward.”