DLA Piper represents international clients, particularly in the technology and consumer goods sectors, in disputes and administrative proceedings, with additional experience in providing strategic advice on emerging issues such as the customisation and upcycling of branded goods. Practice head Stefan Engels brings extensive knowledge of trade mark and design law across both advisory and contentious mandates, with notable activity in the media sector. Burkhard Führmeyer focuses on national and cross-border litigation, including cases before the Court of Justice of the European Union, as well as advising on all aspects of portfolio management, including clearance, filings, opposition, cancellation proceedings and licensing. Kai Tumbrägel departed the firm in 2024.
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Key clients
- Daimler Truck AG
- Deutsche Lufthansa AG
- Medtronic GmbH and Medtronic Limited
- Nike Retail BV and Nike Inc.
- Nintendo Inc.
- Samsung Electronics GmbH
- Spin Master Ltd. / Spin Master International BV Ltd.
- Tigercat International Inc.
- Vereinigte Papierwarenfabriken GmbH
- Wunderflats GmbH
Work highlights
Represented Nike in landmark trade mark disputes with main competitor Adidas over use of various decorative stripe patterns on sports apparel.
Represented German and UK companies of the US Medtronic group in and out of court in medical device advertising matters involving trade mark infringement and unfair competition claims.
Represented Nintendo in border seizure and IP infringement proceedings in Germany.
Practice head
Stefan Engels
Other key lawyers
Burkhard Führmeyer