Mallet Sought $25 Million in Damages
Mallet initially sought up to $25 million, alleging significant profit losses due to the alleged copying of its products and theft of customers.
In a statement, Mallet and its parent Vantage Specialty Chemicals said, “The jury saw the wrongdoing in this case, as well as the resulting damage to us, and took appropriate action. We feel the verdict sends a clear message that attempts to misappropriate trade secrets should not, and will not, be tolerated.”
Defendants Push Back on Allegations
Attorneys for Synova and Bundy argued during trial that the formulas in question were not true trade secrets, describing them as basic combinations of vegetable and mineral oils commonly used across the industry. They emphasized that Bundy already had knowledge of Mallet’s products through a past joint effort to win a contract with Grupo Bimbo, a major Mexican bakery conglomerate.
In a post-verdict statement, Ronald L. Hicks Jr., counsel for Synova and Bundy, said the Bundy family was disappointed but emphasized the award was far lower than what Mallet had sought.
“The Bundy family remains steadfast that Synova was created to deliver proprietary, best-in-class products — not copies,” Hicks said, noting that the family looks forward to “equitable resolution” in the next phase of proceedings.
