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Coke for Miffy

Coke for Miffy

Because of its child friendly character Dick Bruna’s Miffy is often a humorous target. Bruna has more often than not successfully opposed unacceptable parodies on Miffy. For example in 2002 a campaign against rude behavior was revoked for using the same style as Miffy. Since that time, however, the so-called parody-exception has been added to the Copyright Act.

Punt.nl, a Dutch website successfully invoked this exception in a recent case before the Court of Amsterdam. On punt.nl Miffy can be seen sniffing coke, acting as a DJ at a house party and taking party drugs. This all clashes with the character’s child friendly nature. Bruna claims that his work is being maimed by Punt.nl.

The court decided that five out of seven images were acceptable under the parody exception. They were deemed to be clearly humoristic. For two images, however, it was decided that they were too similar to the original Miffy. These images were an infringement. (source image: Boek9.nl)

About Abcor

Abcor specializes in applying for trademark and design rights. We do this worldwide for both SMEs and international companies, but often everything starts with an initial Benelux application. Our aim is to relieve the client of all the worries, which is why we take care of all the steps, from initial advice on what to apply for and how, right through to registration.

In addition to applying for trademarks, we also manage portfolios for our clients. We ensure that trademarks are renewed on time, that the right organizations are paid (given the many fraudulent companies), and we support our clients on issues.

In addition, we are sparring partners for our customers on new products and how to shape and claim new ideas.

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Newsletter: Abcor ABC Magazine

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Among others in this issue:
• EUIPO vs Mora TV: weigering geluidsmerk
• Jägermeister vs Alte Heiler: stop Russische copycat
• Stichting Nederlandse Top 40: gericht op Benelux?
• Tijdschrift HART vs Hermitage: soortgelijkheid
• Monique Granneman: nieuwe partner Abcor

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