September 2004
Olympic rings cost Benetton a lot of gold, silver and bronze
Benetton has run into trouble over its recent range of children's clothing which included the Olympic rings and the word "Olympics"
The Olympic symbol, motto and trade mark are particularly unusual in that they have a statute especially devoted to their protection. The Olympic Symbol etc (Protection) Act 1995 prohibits the use of the name, the motto or the symbol unless with explicit permission or licence form the International Olympic Association, a permission that Benetton did not seek to avail itself of.
It is believed that Benetton have removed the articles of clothing concerned from sale but initially refused to pay damages however recent reports suggest that damages and costs have now been paid to the IOA.
BRIFFA Comment
The Olympic Symbol etc. (Protection) Act 1995 not only covers the logo and motto but also a series of protected words which are "Olympiad", "Olympiads", "Olympian", "Olympians", "Olympic" and "Olympics". An infringement under this act can be heard as a criminal offence and can lead to a substantial fine. The purposes of this act have also been integrated into the Trade Marks Act 1994 and the Copyright Designs and Patents Act 1988 in relation to trade marks, registered designs and design right.