Absolute Radio and Absolut vodka reach legal settlement

Swedish vodka brand Absolut and Absolute Radio have reached a settlement over the use of the Absolut/Absolute name.

TIML’s Clive Dickens said: “Absolute Radio is pleased with this settlement which will see us continue to build our music radio brand and advance our position as one of the leading commercial radio networks in a digital age.”

Paula Eriksson, spokesperson for V&S, said: “I am pleased with the outcome of this matter which will enable us to continue to develop the iconic Absolut brand without risk of confusion to the public.”

Absolut owner V&S Vin & Sprit AB began legal action against TIML Radio Limited, owners of the Absolute Radio brand, in October 2008.

Absolute Radio, previously Virgin Radio, was rebranded in September 2008 following its acquisition by Times of India Group.

V&S made the complaint because it saw a “risk of confusion” and considered the Absolute Radio name a “passing off”.

The terms of the settlement are confidential.