Thu, 20 Feb 2025

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 Birkenstock sandals are not art, says German court

The firm wanted to claim protection under copyright law, to stop rivals selling copycat versions of its shoes.
A German court has ruled that Birkenstocks are not works of art and therefore do not qualify for copyright protection. The company had claimed its sandals were artistic, but a judge dismissed this argument, stating that they are simply practical design items. Birkenstock's bid to protect its designs was motivated by the fact that rivals often sell knock-off versions of their iconic footwear. The ruling is seen as a setback for the company, which has become increasingly popular in recent years and has gained a valuation of over $8.6 billion. In order to qualify for copyright protection, works must demonstrate a certain level of individual creativity, something that Birkenstock's sandals are deemed not to possess.
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