An online alcohol distributor has been reprimanded for using the trademarked words 'Rugby World Cup'.
Winesale.co.nz emailed a newsletter to 30,000 customers last week stating: "The Rugby World Cup is getting closer - have you tried our Argentinean beer?"
Two days later, Rugby World Cup Ltd issued the company with a written warning citing the 2007 Major Event Management Act which has provisions for fines of up to $150,000.
Winesal's general manager Michael Mebis says the reaction is extreme and draconian.
However, Rugby World Cup Ltd general manager Ross Young says it has a duty to protect its sponsors and denies that the reaction is heavy-handed.
