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TOBLERONE and the Matterhorn

TOBLERONE and the Matterhorn

It is common knowledge that state symbols should not be used in trademarks. The reason being that consumers may deem the products/services approved by the government. In Switzerland, a law was passed in 2017 that goes a bit further.

 

 

That law prevents companies from being allowed to use Swiss symbols/names if those products are not made in Switzerland. Think of symbols such as the white cross on a red background, certain mountains, as well as Wilhem Tell. Depending on the type of product, the rules are stricter, but for dairy products, the requirement is that 100% of the material must come from Switzerland.

When Toblerone (founded in Switzerland in 1908) announces that it is moving part of its production to Slovakia, its packaging must also be changed. Not only are the words “Switzerland” replaced by “established in Switzerland 1908,” but the summit of the Matterhorn also has to make way.

The ancient mountain peak will be replaced by a more generic one. The question is whether consumers will notice this. They will mainly associate the chocolate and the quality of the chocolate with the logo, the triangular packaging and especially the triangular shape of the pieces of chocolate.

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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