Los Angeles, California – A legal battle has erupted between two rival publicity firms in the entertainment industry, with the established marketing powerhouse R&CPMK accusing the new firm 2PM Sharp of poaching employees, clients, and confidential information. In lawsuits filed on Wednesday in California and New York state courts, R&CPMK alleges that the founding partners of 2PM Sharp orchestrated the departure of employees who conspired to redirect business to their new venture.
According to the complaint, R&CPMK claims that the actions of 2PM Sharp are aimed at kickstarting their business through unethical means, potentially causing significant financial losses for R&CPMK. This situation is not uncommon in Hollywood, as similar disputes have arisen in the past between prominent firms over employee defections and client poaching.
Rogers & Cowan/PMK, the parent company of R&CPMK, represents a roster of over 400 high-profile musicians, actors, producers, directors, and athletes, including notable names like Denzel Washington, Elton John, and the Rolling Stones. The firm was created in 2019 through the merger of PMK*BNC and Rogers & Cowan, with Cindi Berger serving as chairman.
The lawsuit outlines the timeline of events leading up to the mass departure of employees from R&CPMK to join 2PM Sharp, including efforts by the former chief executive, Mark Owens, to divert business and personnel to the new firm. It is alleged that prior to resigning, one of the employees downloaded a substantial amount of confidential company information, which is now in the possession of 2PM Sharp.
In response to the lawsuit, Cindi Berger, the chairman of R&CPMK, refrained from providing a detailed comment on the ongoing legal proceedings. The complaints filed against 2PM Sharp include allegations of breaching contractual agreements, engaging in unfair competition, and unjust enrichment, among other claims.
Overall, the legal dispute sheds light on the competitive nature of the entertainment industry and the potential consequences for firms involved in such conflicts. As the case unfolds in court, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for both R&CPMK and 2PM Sharp in their efforts to maintain their reputation and client base in the highly competitive publicity sector.