New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has granted an ex-parte ad-interim injunction in favor of Tata Sons Private Limited and Tata Consumer Products Limited, restraining a Punjab-based company from marketing products and packaging deceptively similar to the well-known “TATA TEA” brand.
In an order dated March 13, 2026, Justice Tushar Rao Gedela held that the Tata Group companies had established a strong prima facie case of trademark infringement. The Court found that products sold under the name “ALEXA TEA” shared substantial visual and structural similarities with Tata Tea, including colour schemes, logo design, trade dress, and packaging layout, which were likely to mislead consumers.
Discovery of Infringing Products
Tata reported that an investigator found “Alexa Tea” products being sold at Rajasthani Departmental Store. Additionally, the products were promoted online via Facebook and Instagram.
The plaintiffs further alleged that the defendants acted in bad faith, deliberately misappropriating Tata Tea’s long-standing reputation. Moreover, a comparison of the packaging revealed that the defendants had closely copied the distinctive trade dress of Tata Tea Gold.
Key similarities included:
- The brown font used for “GOLD”
- The signature swirling design across the packet
- A tagline, “Pure Taste with Rich Aroma”, mimicking Tata’s “Rich Taste Irresistible Aroma”
Tata’s Trademark Credentials and Market Presence
The Court emphasized that the mark “TATA” is deeply embedded in public consciousness and is exclusively associated with the Tata Group. The plaintiffs hold the well-known trademarks: “TATA”, “TATA TEA”, “TATA TEA GOLD”, and “TATA TEA PREMIUM”.
Furthermore, the companies highlighted that the “TATA” mark, derived from the founder’s surname, has been used for over a century. Tata Consumer Products reported a gross turnover of ₹5,163 crores in FY 2024-25 and has developed a significant global presence.
Court’s Analysis and Findings
After reviewing the evidence, the Court determined that the balance of convenience favored the plaintiffs. Additionally, it concluded that continued use of the infringing mark would cause irreparable damage to Tata Tea’s goodwill and reputation.
Accordingly, the Court restrained GGS Group Private Limited and its associates from directly or indirectly dealing in products bearing the “ALEXA TEA” mark or packaging. Moreover, the defendants must file statements of accounts of profits in a sealed cover and maintain the status quo regarding sales and distribution.
Next Steps in the Case
The matter is scheduled before the Joint Registrar (Judicial) on May 18, 2026, for completion of service and pleadings. The Court will hear the matter again on September 15, 2026.
Legal Representation
For Tata Sons & Tata Consumer Products: Advocates Pravin Anand, Dhruv Anand, Rohil Bansal, and Chirayu Prahlad
Case: Tata Sons Private Limited & Anr. v. GGS Group Private Limited & Anr.
Case Number: CS(COMM) 242/2026
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