Local hair salon sued by iconic Swedish vodka company
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EVERETT -- A local hair salon that shares the name of an iconic Swedish vodka is being sued by the liquor's manufacturer for $20,000, placing a heavy burden on a popular local business.
Absolut Hair Salon and Makeup, located on Beverly Boulevard in Everett, was recently sued by the Los Angeles-based McDermott, Will & Emery, an international law firm representing The Absoult Company.
The owner of the hair salon, Jessee Skiterall, said the suit claims he committed trademark infringement. Mr. Skiterall bought Absolut Hair Salon and Makeup in 2009, and the store has operated under the same name since April 1998, the owner said.
He's not sure why the liquor company is now fighting the name, but after consulting a lawyer Skiterall said he has no choice but to change the brand.
"Absolut Hair and Makeup has been a part of the Everett community for over 15 years and not once did we even think there could be a problem with the name," Skiterall said. "The staff and I can't believe it and I am just devastated."
Skiterall and others said the cost of rebranding will cut into the business' small profits.
"It's not just the cost of interior and exterior signage to us," Absolut Hair and Makeup Concierge Boo Brantley said. "We have heavily invested in our new website, which will need to be completely redesigned."
The owner is unsure exactly how much rebranding will cost, but said it will greatly affect his business and customers. He is not sure when the change will be completed.
Comments from an Absolut Vodka spokesperson were not immediately available. Absolut is the third largest alcohol brand in the world, and is owned by French group Pernod Ricard.