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Copyright for Taste?

6th December 2018 by Sam Freeman

Categories: What's New?
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When you hear the word “copyright” you probably think of a book, piece of music or a photograph, and with good reason. Many literary, musical and artistic works are protected under it. But what about taste?

The European Court of Justice has just ruled that the taste of food was too “subjective and variable” for it to meet the requirements for copyright protection after the owner of a spreadable cream cheese dip tried to take action against a competitor.

This is not entirely surprising given that a number of different factors can affect a person’s perception of taste, making it virtually impossible to define exactly what is protected and what constitutes infringement, but the food and drink industry is extremely competitive, and lucrative. The larger brands spend a considerable amount of time and money in creating new products and it seems only logical that they would want to protect their creations if possible.

If you have any questions regarding copyright protection then please contact Sam Freeman on 01202 557256 or at s.freeman@laceyssolicitors.co.uk.

Sam Freeman

Partner — Corporate and Commercial

Direct dial: 01202 377878

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Sam Freeman heads up our Corporate and Commercial team. He is a vastly experienced corporate lawyer having advised a wide variety of businesses within a range of sectors, for a number of years, having qualified as a Solicitor in 2005. 

Sam’s particular specialisms include share and assets acquisitions and disposals, company restructures, shareholder agreements and partnerships. Sam enjoys helping people succeed in business regardless of whether the client is a small local set up or a large national organisation. Whatever the concern, Sam provides a calm personable approach to his work ensuring clients are guided in a practical straightforward manner.

Away from work Sam enjoys spending time with his family and this years new edition, Merlin the Great Dane, and anything sport related, especially playing golf.

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