High street titan Marks & Spencer has thrown down the legal gauntlet, initiating trademark infringement proceedings against international fashion retailer Mango in a dispute centred on an unlikely product: a £20 teddy bear.
The controversy erupted after M&S discovered Mango was selling a bear that bore a startling resemblance to its own iconic and hugely popular Percy Pig-branded stuffed animal. The M&S bear, a key part of its clothing and home collection, features distinctive stitching and a bright red scarf.
Legal documents filed allege that Mango's 'Goldy the Bear' creates a 'likelihood of confusion' amongst consumers and takes 'unfair advantage' of the distinctive character and repute of the M&S brand and its Percy Pig intellectual property.
A Spokesperson for Marks & Spencer stated: "We have been made aware of a product that bears a close resemblance to our own and we are taking the necessary steps to protect our brand and intellectual property."
Mango, the Spanish fashion giant, has yet to publicly comment on the legal challenge. The brand's bear, which has since been removed from its UK website, was also priced at £20 and featured near-identical stitching and a matching red scarf.
This case highlights the fiercely competitive nature of the retail sector, where brand identity and unique designs are paramount. The outcome could set a significant precedent for how similar disputes over product design are handled in the future.
