Geographical indications protect special wines (such as Champagne) or agricultural products (like Gouda cheese) that are produced in a specific regional way. To put it simply, it’s a quality label for local products. The goal: to safeguard the high quality of local, cultural, historical, or gastronomical goods. Starting December 1, this protection can also be requested for special artisanal and industrial products. Is this necessary? Unfortunately, yes.
Last summer, both Prada and Adidas made the news because their new sandals looked strikingly similar to traditional cultural sandals. Prada’s design was heavily inspired by the traditional Indian Kolhapuri sandal, while Adidas’ version resembled the Mexican Huarache sandal. That companies take “inspiration” isn’t strange in itself. However, there should be internal policies—ethical ones too—setting boundaries to prevent cultural heritage from being appropriated and to guide how to respond to criticism. Adidas not only publicly apologized right away, but its legal team also visited in person to discuss a collaboration to help preserve local traditions. A respectful response from which Prada could still learn quite a bit.
