Mondelēz International, the global confectionery giant behind Toblerone, has initiated legal proceedings against Catherine’s Originals, a small British vegan chocolate maker. Filed in the London High Court, the lawsuit accuses the Sussex-based brand of trademark infringement and "passing off" regarding the design of its "O’bar" product.
Dispute Over Iconic Shape
Mondelēz contends that the O’bar, which features a series of rounded, semi-oval humps, mimics the distinctive triangular peak design that has defined Toblerone since 1929. The multinational corporation stated that it attempted to resolve the issue privately for several months before resorting to litigation, citing a responsibility to protect its intellectual property.
Catherine’s Originals, founded by Catherine Dodd in 2021, maintains that the O’bar design is unique and intended to represent the letter "O" in the brand's name. Dodd expressed that the legal challenge is daunting for a small business but affirmed her intention to defend the company’s identity in court.
This is not the first time Mondelēz has taken legal action to protect the Toblerone silhouette. In 2017, the company successfully forced budget retailer Poundland to alter the design and packaging of its "Twin Peaks" bar following a similar trademark dispute. The case between Mondelēz and Catherine’s Originals remains ongoing as both parties prepare for the legal process.
