PHILIP MORRIS USA FILES LAWSUITS TO STOP THE SALE OF COUNTERFEIT CIGARETTES
Philip Morris USA filed lawsuits today against retailers selling
counterfeit versions of the company's Marlboro� brand
cigarettes. The company filed three suits against 105 retailers
in federal courts in New York and New Jersey. The lawsuits are
aimed at stopping the sale of counterfeit cigarettes and the
unauthorized use of Philip Morris USA's trademarks.
"The sale of counterfeit cigarettes undermines the value of
Philip Morris USA's brands and the legitimate channels through
which our products are distributed and sold," said Charlie
Whitaker, vice president, Compliance and Brand Integrity, Philip
Morris USA.� "Selling counterfeit cigarettes is illegal, and we
will take action to protect our brands."
These suits are the result of the company's periodic marketplace
purchases of cigarettes.
