A legal battle has erupted between two rival publicity firms, with marketing giant R&CPMK accusing up-and-coming competitor 2PM Sharp of poaching employees, clients, and confidential information. The lawsuits, filed in California and New York state courts, allege that the founders of 2PM Sharp orchestrated the departure of employees in an effort to redirect business towards their new company. R&CPMK is seeking damages and a court order to prevent 2PM Sharp from soliciting their clients for one year.
In the entertainment industry, such betrayals are not uncommon. Past cases include CAA suing UTA over agents defecting and CAA’s lawsuit against Range for allegedly stealing confidential information. R&CPMK represents a range of high-profile clients, including Denzel Washington, Sandra Bullock, and Katy Perry. The firm was formed in 2019 through a merger of PMK*BNC and Rogers & Cowan.
The lawsuit outlines the actions of former employees before their departure from R&CPMK, detailing efforts to divert business to 2PM Sharp. Mark Owens, former CEO of R&CPMK, left to start 2PM Sharp along with other key employees. The lawsuit claims that prior to their resignations, employees downloaded internal company files and solicited clients in violation of their contracts.
The stolen information includes bid proposals, research, sales strategies, and client information, giving 2PM Sharp an unfair advantage in serving clients. The lawsuit alleges breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, tortious interference, unfair competition, and unjust enrichment. R&CPMK is seeking legal recourse to protect their business interests and hold 2PM Sharp accountable for their actions.
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