When the Clipper hit the market in 2022, Basil objected. This plastic basket also had rounded corners, a wire dome, and a carrying handle. Basil argued that the Clipper looked too much like their Buddy basket and claimed infringement of their design and copyright.
Clipper disagreed, saying the rim and feet were totally different, giving it a more robust look. The judge agreed: despite similarities (like the handle), the Clipper gives a different overall impression. The rim isn’t a gentle V-shape but a thick, rolled edge that runs slanted and uninterrupted downwards. The feet are separate and point inward. The fact that it’s made of plastic isn’t even apparent from the design registration. The claim was dismissed. Design rights are indeed the best way to protect a product’s appearance, but they do have limits. If the overall impression is different, it’s game over.
