A fight that has been ongoing for some time, there has been more back and forth between fashion designer Thom Browne and sports brand Adidas.
The battle started in 2021 when Thom Browne sought to revoke numerous marks owned by Addias for their stripe logo. This logo had been used to challenge Thom Browne’s four-bar stripe design in the past.
It is the designer’s position that Adidas seek to monopolise the use of stripes on clothing, and that such monopoly would be too onerous, as stripes should be deemed commonplace.
Adidas hit back and filed a counterclaim, arguing that Thom Browne’s four stripe design infringed their trade mark rights and could damage Adidas’ reputation and brand image.
The two brands are fighting it out in the UK courts to determine who can continue to use their own stripe design.
The matter extends beyond the UK, with ongoing disputes in the EU and the Netherlands. The US Courts have already decided on the matter, siding with Thom Browne, even after appeal.
The Adidas logo is arguably one of the most recognisable brands in the sports world and therefore the outcome of this matter could be massive for its continued dominance.
Watch this space for updates!
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