A German federal court ruled that Birkenstock sandals do not qualify as works of art and are not eligible for copyright protections. The ruling supports a lower court's decision, emphasizing that true copyright protection requires a design with individuality, rather than mere craftsmanship or formal design elements. Birkenstock sought to stop competing retailers from selling similar sandals, citing concerns over brand integrity. Despite the unfavorable ruling, the company remains committed to defending its brand identity against copycats in the fashion market.
The German federal court ruled that Birkenstock sandals cannot be classified as works of art deserving copyright protections, standing by a lower court's judgment.
The court stated protection requires design individuality, noting that craftsmanship alone without significant design elements is insufficient for copyright.
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