Metricolor, LLC v. L Oreal S.A.

INTRODUCTION

A. Metricolor Initiates this Action On January 16, 2018, plaintiff Metricolor LLC (“Metricolor’”) filed this action against L’Oréal S.A.; L’Oréal USA, Inc. (“L’Oréal USA”); L’Oréal USA Products, Inc. (“L’Oréal USA Products”); L’Oréal USA S/D, Inc. (“L’Oréal USA S/D”); and Redken 5th Avenue NYC, LLC (“Redken”). Dkt. (“Compl.”). Metricolor’s initial complaint asserted claims for: (1) patent infringement; (2) breach of contract: (3) misappropriation of trade secrets: (4) breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing: (5) false advertising in violation of the Lanham Acct; (6) false advertising in violation of California’s False Advertising Law (“FAL”): (7) unfair competition in violation of California’s Unfair Competition Law (“UCL”): and (8) breach of confidence. Id. According to Metricolor, the L’Oréal defendants together form a conglomerate that “is the self-proclaimed world-leader in beauty products, including makeup, cosmetics, haircare, and perfume.” Compl. 1. By contrast, Metricolor “is a small and new startup company” founded by hairstylist Stephen D’Amico, and his father, Salvatore □□□□□□ Id. § …