Update: Apple Logo Dispute Down Under
11:13 am, February 9th, 2010, Nicole Martinelli
Australian retailer Woolworths is buying time in the latest Apple logo dispute.
At the core of the corporate tussle is a “W” logo of a peeled apple with leaf filed back in August 2008 for the 80-year-old supermarket chain.
The new logo was supposed to symbolize fresh produce, but speculation was that Apple opposed it because the retailer might also slap blanket trademark on “fresh” computer products and home electronics, causing confusion for customers. Woolworths already sells own-brand credit cards and mobile phone plans.
Apple lawyers have filed evidence to support its opposition to the trademark application to IP Australia, the federal agency that governs trademarks down under. Woolworths missed the Jan. 27 deadline to respond and filed for a three-month extension. (Maybe they have to come up with a new concept for their iPad line, too?)
Like most trademark questions, this is unlikely to be resolved quickly. The grocer can also apply for more than one extension, then Apple has time to answer and can also apply for extensions if necessary, too.
“Evidence in reply [from Apple] was due approximately six months after Woolworths lodges their reply to Apple’s claims,” a spokesperson for IP Australia told ZDNet.com.au “That time may also be extended by Apple,” the spokesperson said.
Via ZDnet
Posted by Nicole Martinelli in News | Comment on this article
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I don’t see an apple, I see a pumpkin. Maybe they should color it orange.
Jim, on February 9th, 2010 at 12:15 pm
I really don’t think they look similar enough for this to be an issue. Even trying I wouldn’t make the connection.
JustaGuy, on February 9th, 2010 at 2:05 pm
Honestly. Anyone walking into Woolies thinking that they are buying and very cheap Apple conputer even though the box clearly says Woolworths, deserves everything they get.
KenseiDave, on February 9th, 2010 at 3:15 pm
Everyone knows that Woolworths isn’t fresh at all though.
Its ridiculous.
Rory Parker, on February 9th, 2010 at 4:20 pm
Frickin lawyers!
Don Pope, on February 9th, 2010 at 4:54 pm
Crush Woolworths! The duopoly chokehold that they and Coles have on the Australian people is insane – and don’t put it past them to do everything that Apple is concerned they may do. They have now pretty much taken over the fuel industry here too. Can’t be trusted AT ALL.
James, on February 9th, 2010 at 6:26 pm
As Woolworths is always looking to expand into new areas (to continue the profit growth expected by all the mum and dad shareholders), the concern is that it may start a chain of computer shops.
Imagine a computer shop with the large green apple on it.
This is probably why Apple is challenging it.
Guy, on February 9th, 2010 at 9:32 pm
I love Apple products, I hate Apple Lawyers! They have taken this too far and are just making money for themselves, keeping themselves employed…
Brendan, on February 10th, 2010 at 5:07 pm
@Guy Wollworths already owns chains of computer stores, Tandy and DSE.
Brendan N, on February 11th, 2010 at 10:45 pm