John Lewis gifted a success over John Lewis Xmas Advert Copyright Case

Retailer John Lewis is arguably best known for its festive efforts. The John Lewis Xmas advert is an event in itself and something that millions of people look forward to.

John Xmas advert

There have been many memorable ones over time, including the 2019 advert which featured a friendly green dragon called Edgar. Edgar stole the nation’s heart by being a clumsy but loveable character.

However, not all were happy with the advert.

Fay Evans, a designer based in Macclesfield, filed a claim against John Lewis claiming that Edgar bore a “striking” resemblance to her character, Fred The Fire-Sneezing Dragon.

Evans first put her claims of copyright infringement on social media before filing a formal claim against the retailer and Adam & Eve DDB who were the creatives for the advert.

John Lewis Xmas Advert Copyright Case Victory
© Editor5807 (Wikimedia Commons License)

John Lewis rebutted the claim and stated that there are “numerous and substantial differences” between the two characters, and nobody involved in the advert had heard or been aware of Fred The Fire-Sneezing Dragon.

John Lewis in their evidence explained that the concept of Edgar had been originally pitched to them in 2016 before it came to life in 2019, whereas Evan’s book was published in 2017.

The judge considered the facts, including the fact that Fay Evans had only sold 900 copies of our book since publication, and agreed with John Lewis.

The judge acknowledged that there were some similar elements between the characters, but these were commonplace features, and a result of coincidence rather than copying. The Judge stated that no copying can take place if the work alleged to have been copied had not been accessed by the other party.

The Court ordered Evans to publish the court ruling on her website. If you would like some further information or advice on copyright infringement, then please get in touch with the team today.

Written By Ellis Sweetenham- Solicitor

Ellis is a contentious and non-contentious intellectual property (IP) solicitor at Lawdit Solicitors. Ellis also is an intellectual property law consultant at Lawdit’s sister company Trademarkroom. Ellis has represented clients in a variety of matters, including those relating to infringement, licensing, oppositions, assignment, portfolio management, pre-filing due diligence and registration. In addition to IP matters, Ellis can assist in other commercial matters, including civil litigation.

More on John Lewis


John Lewis, the renowned British retail company, has made a significant impact in the UK over the years. From its wide range of products to its innovative marketing campaigns, John Lewis has become a household name synonymous with quality and exceptional customer service. One particular aspect that has captured the nation’s attention is the highly anticipated annual event known as the “John Lewis Xmas Advert.”

The John Lewis Christmas Advert has become a cultural phenomenon, eagerly anticipated by millions of people across the country. Each year, as the holiday season approaches, the release of the John Lewis Xmas Advert sparks excitement and discussion among people of all ages. It has become a cherished tradition, signaling the beginning of the festive period.

The John Lewis Xmas Advert has become renowned for its heartwarming and emotionally charged storytelling. The company has consistently delivered touching narratives that evoke a range of emotions, from joy to nostalgia. These adverts often revolve around themes of love, friendship, family, and the true spirit of Christmas. The captivating stories depicted in the adverts have touched the hearts of millions, resonating deeply with viewers and leaving a lasting impact.

What sets the John Lewis Xmas Advert apart is its ability to create a genuine connection with the audience. It goes beyond being a mere commercial and transcends into an emotional experience. Many people eagerly await the advert’s release, eager to see the creative direction and the heartwarming story that will unfold. The adverts have become so popular that they often become viral sensations, with people sharing and discussing them across various social media platforms.

Moreover, the John Lewis Xmas Advert has had a significant impact on the company’s brand image and sales. The adverts have helped solidify John Lewis as a trusted and beloved brand, known for its commitment to quality and emotional resonance. The heartwarming stories featured in the adverts resonate with consumers and create a positive association with the company’s products and values. As a result, the adverts have played a crucial role in boosting sales during the festive season, making John Lewis a go-to destination for Christmas shopping.

Furthermore, the John Lewis Xmas Advert has had a wider impact beyond the company itself. It has inspired other retailers and brands to invest in emotionally driven advertising during the holiday season. The success of these adverts has highlighted the power of storytelling and connecting with consumers on an emotional level. The impact of the John Lewis Xmas Advert has thus extended beyond the company, shaping the landscape of advertising in the UK.

In conclusion, the John Lewis Xmas Advert has become an iconic part of the UK’s cultural fabric. It has captured the nation’s attention, evoking emotions and signaling the arrival of the festive season. The adverts have helped establishJohn Lewis as a trusted and beloved brand, while also influencing the wider advertising industry. Year after year, the John Lewis Xmas Advert continues to captivate and inspire, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of people across the UK.

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