Callaway Sues Over Spalding’s Packages

Callaway Golf Co. said it filed a lawsuit against Spalding & Evenflo Cos.’ Sports Worldwide Inc., alleging that Spalding intends to mislead consumers by selling golf balls in packaging that uses Callaway’s name.

In the suit filed in U.S. District Court in Santa Ana, Callaway alleges Spalding is claiming its new ball is designed to be the longest-driving and most accurate golf ball a player can use with three different Callaway clubs. Carlsbad, Calif.-based Callaway, the world’s largest seller of premium golf clubs, makes Big Bertha clubs. Tampa, Fla.-based Spalding makes a wide range of sporting goods.

Callaway said Spalding announced a new “C System” golf ball at the International PGA Show in Orlando, Fla., in January with packaging that “prominently featured” Callaway trademarks and other images of Callaway clubs.

“If Spalding wants to promote a new product, it should do so using its own name and reputation, not ours,” said Ely Callaway, the company’s chairman and founder. “We have had nothing to do with this ball and have not even been given the opportunity to test one.”

The suit alleges Spalding’s packaging and promotional materials create confusion and make it appear to consumers that Callaway endorses the product.

Spalding officials could not be reached for comment.