Streit um Markenrechte: Ritter Sport vs. Haferriegel: So geht es jetzt weiter

In a trademark dispute between Ritter Sport and Haferriegel manufacturer Wacker, the Oberlandesgericht Stuttgart ruled in favor of Ritter Sport, requiring the company to stop producing and selling the quadrangular Haferriegel known as "Monnemer Quadrat Bio." The court deemed the packaging "overly" similar and the goods "at least" similar, indicating a risk of consumer confusion and a trademark infringement.

The court ordered a ban on manufacturing and distributing the product and demanded information on the extent of its distribution and profits obtained. Wacker launched the "Monnemer Quadrat Bio" Haferriegel in November 2024, inspired by the Mannheim Inner City, which resembled the Ritter Sport trolley despite being smaller and having longer side flaps.

In January 2025, Ritter Sport filed a lawsuit against Wacker, demanding the cessation of the use of the current packaging and the return of already shipped goods. Ritter Sport argues that the quadrangular bar infringes on its trademark, which has been protected since 1996, as it involves similar products targeted at the same audience and occasion.

Wacker claims that their product is not chocolate and serves a different consumer need. A legal expert from BRP Renaud, Philip Kohl, supports the Oberlandesgericht's decision, noting that Schokolade and Getreidezubereitungen like Müsliriegel are comparable goods in trademark terms, and the similar packaging poses a risk of consumer confusion.

Consumer advocates, while recognizing the similarity between the products, argue that the existing products have been on the market for decades and have gained significant popularity. The dispute escalates as Wacker decides to appeal to the Bundesgerichtshof, hoping for a fair resolution.