An attorney for the band Ghost has responded to reports that a U.K.-based company called Ghost Vodka is being sued by the group over the use of the name.
Ann-Charlotte Söderlund Björk, representing the band, said, “Svensk Drama Pop (SDP) holds an exclusive trademark registration throughout the European Union for the figurative sign 'Ghost.' Those rights are licensed to Global Merchandising Services Ltd, in whose interest these proceedings are brought. This case has been on-going for months now, and numerous attempts have been made throughout that period of time to reach an amicable settlement.”
Ghost the band has licensed its name and imagery to Global Merchandising Services for use on a Ghost-branded gin and beer.
Björk added, “This case is not about 'gin vs. vodka,' it's about trademark rights that grant ownership for any and all alcoholic beverages — gin, whiskey, wine, beer, ale, vodka, etc. For any other EU-based entity to use the word 'Ghost' as part of its alcoholic beverage brand name would be in violation of SDP's exclusive rights. SDP is entitled to defend these rights as any other business would when their trademark rights have been infringed.”
Ghost Vodka was launched in 2015 and claims that Ghost main man Tobias Forge and his representatives have known about the company since 2016.
The vodka maker contends — without evidence — that Forge is suing the company now because he needs money after settling with four ex-members of the group.