Thomann takes legal action against Fender
4 hours ago
- #Guitar Industry
- #Legal Action
- #Brand Diversity
- The article details Thomann's decision to take legal action against Fender's cease and desist demands regarding Stratocaster-style guitars.
- Fender's recent default judgment in Germany, based on procedural grounds, is being used to claim copyright over the Stratocaster body shape, impacting manufacturers and dealers in Europe and the US.
- Thomann, a long-time Fender retailer, argues the Stratocaster's functional design is in the public domain and its free adaptation has driven global guitar innovation and diversity for decades.
- The legal challenge is framed as protecting industry diversity, innovation, and fair competition, especially for smaller players without resources for legal battles.
- Thomann's CEO emphasizes a responsibility to support all affected parties and calls for Fender to cease its demands and return to cooperative partnerships.