Birkenstock fails to show artistry in sandal copyright bid
German court rules footwear lacks artistic expression for copyright protection | Decision reinforces the precedent that functionality limits copyright protection | Creative development may need to be shown in fashion advertising says lawyer.
If you don't have a login or your access has expired, you will need to purchase a subscription to gain access to this article, including all our online content.
For more information on individual annual subscriptions for full paid access and corporate subscription options please contact us.
To request a FREE 2-week trial subscription, please signup.
NOTE - this can take up to 48hrs to be approved.
For multi-user price options, or to check if your company has an existing subscription that we can add you to for FREE, please email Adrian Tapping at atapping@newtonmedia.co.uk
10 July 2023 Footwear giant seeks redress for alleged theft of trade secrets in the development of Joybees clogs | Ex-Crocs manager already subject of prior legal action for ‘stealing’ documents before setting up rival company.
18 February 2025 The shoe brand recently lost its bid to restore a design right for its iconic clog—its latest failed attempt to secure the registration. Lee Curtis of HGF explores.
20 February 2025 The EUIPO's decision that Nike's strap design is too similar to a 1990s model may be a turning point in EU design law—with potentially far-reaching consequences, say Silvia Asioli and Andrea Lottini of Abion.
19 February 2025 Relationships and “baking in” IP across departments at the right time are crucial for the $40 billion company’s in-house team, Patrick Lo tells Sarah Speight.