IKEA, the Swedish multinational furniture and home goods retailer, was founded in 1943 by Ingvar Kamprad. The company initially began as a small mail-order business, selling household items like pens, wallets, and picture frames. In 1956, IKEA revolutionized the furniture industry by introducing flat-pack, self-assembled furniture, making it more affordable and accessible to the masses. The company's distinctive logo has been enjoying trademark protection since 1977 and has become an internationally recognized symbol of stylish and affordable home furnishings.
IKEA is known for actively monitoring and protecting its trademarks, and the company has engaged in legal actions against entities that infringe upon its intellectual property. In 2013, IKEA was involved in a trademark dispute in India with Aikya Global, a local company that operated a website named 'ikeafansindia.com.' Inter IKEA Systems B.V., the global franchisor and owner of the IKEA concept, filed a complaint against Aikya Global, claiming trademark infringement and unfair competition.