The Court of Appeal has overturned a previous ruling in favour of Matthew Reed, a life-long fan of Arsenal who sells unofficial Arsenal scarves, hats and T-shirts, and said that Reed was infringing on the club's trademark.
Arsenal's victory over the sale of unofficial merchandise is being hailed as a victory for brand owners, who say that the decision will give them unprecedented scope to crack down on counterfeit goods.
The club's battle with Reed has been lengthy, and has involved the High Court, the European Court and now the Court of Appeal. The European Court of Justice ruled in November last year that Arsenal had a right to protect its trademark and that Reed must stop selling the merchandise, but this was overturned.
Yesterday's ruling in the Court of Appeal would make it difficult for traders to keep selling unauthorised goods, even if they make it clear that it is not official merchandise. According to reports, this will make it easier for brand owners to protect their brands.
The case started out as a dispute over the sale of scarves and woolly hats, but it has taken on wider implications on the sale of fake goods. Arsenal has subsequently taken steps to protect its trademark by slightly altering its badge.
But while the media is talking of Arsenal's triumph, the case might not yet be over, with reports saying that Reed is planning to appeal to the House of Lords.
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