FESI welcomes EU update but warns on fees
The European Union’s updated framework on the protection of designs signals a proactive step towards modernisation, said the Federation of the European Sporting Goods Industry (FESI), but it warned a significant rise in registration fees will make it more difficult for SMEs to protect their designs.
In the final version of the agreement, co-legislators have almost doubled the registration fees proposed by the Commission to 700 euros per design. These new amounts seem “somewhat disproportionate” and risk creating counterproductive effects, particularly for the smallest companies, which account for almost 85% of FESI’s membership, it said.
Neil Narriman, president of FESI and general counsel at Puma, said: “A robust EU framework on design protection is imperative, providing a shield against infringement and fostering an environment conducive to creativity and investment. It’s not just about preserving individual designs; it’s about safeguarding the very essence of innovation that propels our industry forward.
“As FESI president, I advocate for a framework that champions innovation but also ensures a level playing field for all stakeholders.”
